27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.00 percent of residents in 27106 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Carolina Baptist Hospital with a distance of 4.10 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 27106**

Considering a move to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and specifically ZIP Code 27106? This assessment delves into the complexities of healthcare access, with a particular focus on lung cancer care, considering the realities of transportation within the area. This analysis is designed to provide prospective residents with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" to help inform your decision.

The score considers factors like drive times to key medical facilities, the availability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. It is important to understand that the "Lung Cancer Score" is a subjective measure, reflecting the accessibility and convenience of healthcare resources for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer.

**The Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score is presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing extremely limited access and 10 representing exceptional access. This score is based on a composite of factors, including:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities (30%):** This considers the average drive time to major hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Public Transportation Availability (25%):** This evaluates the frequency, coverage, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options (25%):** This assesses the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport.
* **Overall Healthcare Infrastructure (20%):** This considers the density and quality of healthcare providers in the area.

**ZIP Code 27106: A Transportation Overview**

ZIP Code 27106 is located in the heart of Winston-Salem, offering residents a blend of urban and suburban living. The transportation landscape is primarily reliant on personal vehicles, with public transportation playing a supporting role. Understanding the nuances of transportation is crucial for anyone considering a move to this area, especially those with healthcare needs.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The primary roadways in and around 27106 include Interstate 40 (I-40), US Highway 52, and various local roads like Stratford Road, Reynolda Road, and Silas Creek Parkway. Driving times to major healthcare facilities can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific location within the ZIP code.

**Key Healthcare Destinations and Estimated Drive Times:**

* **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center:** Located on Hawthorne Road, this is a major healthcare provider in the area. Drive times from 27106 can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic.
* **Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center:** Situated on Medical Center Boulevard, this is another prominent medical institution. Drive times from 27106 can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic.
* **Cancer Centers:** Both Novant Health and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have dedicated cancer centers. Drive times to these centers are generally similar to those for the main hospitals.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Winston-Salem's public transportation system, operated by the Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA), provides bus service throughout the city. However, the coverage in 27106 and the surrounding areas can be limited, and routes may not always directly serve healthcare facilities.

**Key Bus Routes:**

* **Route 51:** This route travels along Stratford Road, providing access to some parts of 27106.
* **Route 80:** This route serves Reynolda Road, offering access to some areas.

**ADA Accessibility:** All WSTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can be a challenge for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing cancer treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Winston-Salem, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services can be particularly useful for trips to medical appointments, but costs can accumulate.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be covered by insurance.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **First Medical Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Care Ride:** Another option for medical transport.

**Assessing the Lung Cancer Score for 27106**

Based on the factors discussed above, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27106 is estimated to be a **6 out of 10**.

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities (7/10):** Drive times are generally reasonable, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours.
* **Public Transportation Availability (5/10):** Public transportation is available but limited in coverage and frequency.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options (7/10):** Ride-sharing services are readily available, and medical transport options exist.
* **Overall Healthcare Infrastructure (7/10):** Winston-Salem has a robust healthcare infrastructure, with major hospitals and cancer centers.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering a move to 27106, especially those with or at risk of lung cancer, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements.

* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities:** Consider living in areas with shorter drive times to hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Explore public transportation options:** Familiarize yourself with bus routes and schedules.
* **Utilize ride-sharing services:** Factor in the cost of ride-sharing services for medical appointments.
* **Investigate medical transport options:** Research medical transport providers and insurance coverage.
* **Consult with healthcare providers:** Discuss your transportation needs with your healthcare team and seek recommendations.

**Conclusion**

Moving to Winston-Salem and specifically ZIP Code 27106 presents a mixed bag when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with lung cancer. While the area boasts reputable healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful planning and consideration. By understanding the transportation landscape, utilizing available resources, and proactively addressing healthcare access challenges, residents of 27106 can navigate the complexities of healthcare with greater confidence and peace of mind. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive assessment, highlighting the importance of individual needs and circumstances when making decisions about healthcare access and **moving to Winston Salem**.