27013, Cleveland, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27013, Cleveland, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.57 percent of residents in 27013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.62 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 27013

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when considering a move, and even more so when facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 27013, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the ease of reaching vital healthcare services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, recognizing that timely access to care is crucial for positive outcomes. We’ll examine the practical realities of *transportation* within this area, impacting *healthcare access* and informing decisions about *moving to Cleveland*.

ZIP Code 27013, likely situated in a suburban or rural area, presents unique challenges. The Lung Cancer Score here will likely reflect a dependence on personal vehicles. The ability to quickly reach specialists, undergo diagnostic tests, and receive treatment is heavily influenced by the efficiency of the road network.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for *transportation* in this area are likely to be a combination of state highways and local roads. Assuming a hypothetical location, let’s consider potential destinations for lung cancer care. The closest major medical center, potentially located in a nearby city, could be accessed via a combination of roadways. The journey might begin on a local road, then merge onto a state highway like Route 158. From there, the route could transition to a major interstate, such as I-77, leading towards the city with the healthcare facilities.

Drive times are critical. A 30-minute drive to a primary care physician is manageable, but a similar time to a specialized pulmonologist or oncologist could be considered acceptable. However, longer drives, exceeding an hour, significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. These longer journeys increase the burden on patients, especially those experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms associated with lung cancer. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, further exacerbates these challenges.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. Well-maintained highways and roads facilitate smoother, faster travel. Conversely, poorly maintained roads with potholes or other hazards can increase travel time, impact vehicle reliability, and potentially worsen a patient's discomfort. The presence of adequate parking at medical facilities is another factor.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public *transportation* options in ZIP Code 27013 are a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. If the area lacks robust public transit, the score will be negatively impacted. The availability of bus routes, their frequency, and their accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA compliance) are essential considerations.

Let’s assume, for example, that a local transit authority operates a bus route, Route 12, which serves the area. The route might connect to a central hub, offering transfers to other routes. However, if Route 12 only runs hourly, or doesn't operate on weekends, it severely limits *healthcare access*. Furthermore, the absence of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps or lifts, would render the service inaccessible to many patients.

The distance between bus stops and medical facilities is another factor. A long walk, particularly for someone experiencing breathing difficulties or undergoing treatment, is a significant barrier. The *transportation* infrastructure must be designed to accommodate the needs of vulnerable individuals.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also vital. These services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for patients who are unable to drive themselves. However, ride-sharing availability can vary depending on the location and time of day. In a less populated area, the wait times for a ride might be longer, and the cost could be higher.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another option. Brands like CareRide or Access Medical Transportation provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to use public transit or ride-sharing. However, the cost of medical *transportation* can be substantial, and the availability might be limited in certain areas.

**The Lung Cancer Score and its Implications:**

Based on these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27013 would reflect the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. A high score indicates good *healthcare access*, with convenient drive times, robust public transit, and readily available ride-sharing and medical *transportation*. A low score suggests significant challenges, potentially requiring longer travel times, limited options, and higher costs.

This score is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment that changes depending on individual needs and circumstances. For example, a patient with a supportive family member who can drive them to appointments might have a different experience than someone who relies solely on public transit.

**The Decision to Move:**

For individuals considering *moving to Cleveland* or any area with a similar *transportation* profile, the Lung Cancer Score is a valuable tool. It provides a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. This information is particularly critical for individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk.

The proximity of quality healthcare facilities, the efficiency of the road network, and the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services are all crucial factors. The Lung Cancer Score helps individuals make informed decisions about where to live, ensuring they have the support they need to manage their health effectively.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27013, based on our hypothetical scenario, highlights the critical link between *transportation* and *healthcare access*. The score emphasizes the importance of considering the practical realities of getting to and from medical appointments, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. By carefully evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical *transportation* services, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements. The goal is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and effective care, regardless of their location.