27205, Asheboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27205, Asheboro, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.66 percent of residents in 27205 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Randolph Hospital with a distance of 3.27 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Asheboro (ZIP Code 27205)

Relocating to a new community, especially when considering healthcare access, demands a thorough understanding of available resources. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 27205 (Asheboro, North Carolina), assesses the ease with which residents can access lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The score considers transportation options, proximity to medical facilities, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. Understanding these factors is crucial, particularly for individuals or families with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses.

Asheboro, nestled in Randolph County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural nature of the area significantly impacts transportation options, making a comprehensive evaluation of various modalities imperative. The "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide clarity, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for most Asheboro residents. The primary route to significant healthcare providers involves navigating the local road network. From the heart of 27205, accessing the main healthcare hub, **Cone Health's Randolph Hospital**, requires a relatively short drive. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions, the journey typically takes 5-15 minutes. The primary thoroughfare is **US-64**, a major east-west artery that connects Asheboro to surrounding communities.

For specialized care, such as advanced lung cancer treatment, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Greensboro or Winston-Salem. These trips involve longer drive times. Reaching **Cone Health's Wesley Long Hospital** in Greensboro necessitates utilizing **US-64 West** and then connecting to **I-85 North**. This journey typically takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center** in Winston-Salem involves a similar route, utilizing **US-64 West** to connect to **I-40 West**. The drive time to Winston-Salem is also approximately 45-60 minutes.

These drive times highlight the importance of considering the potential for increased travel when dealing with cancer treatment. Frequent appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits, can place a significant burden on patients and their families, especially when long distances are involved.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options within Asheboro and Randolph County are limited. The **Randolph County Transportation Authority (RCTA)** provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are restricted, particularly compared to larger metropolitan areas. The RCTA primarily focuses on serving essential needs, such as trips to medical appointments, shopping, and employment. However, the service area is limited, and the routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the RCTA offers **ADA-compliant services**. These buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the availability of ADA-accessible transportation may still require advance scheduling, adding complexity to the process of accessing healthcare. The frequency of routes may also be a concern, potentially leading to longer wait times and increased travel durations.

The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access. This factor is particularly important for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Asheboro, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another option. Several companies operate in the area, including **Care Ride** and **FirstMed Transportation**. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which should be considered when assessing healthcare access.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides crucial options, especially for individuals without access to personal vehicles. However, the reliability, cost, and availability of these services must be carefully evaluated to ensure consistent and convenient access to healthcare.

**Healthcare Access and the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 27205 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. While Randolph Hospital provides local care, the need for specialized treatment necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can create challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to transportation.

The score considers the following factors: drive times to key healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the overall cost of transportation. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score reflects potential challenges.

For potential residents considering moving to Asheboro, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for assessing healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool, providing insights into the complexities of navigating the healthcare system. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring they can access the care they need.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Terrain**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 27205 provides a comprehensive overview of transportation and healthcare access. While Asheboro offers local healthcare resources, the need for specialized lung cancer treatment may require travel to larger medical centers. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the overall score.

By carefully considering these factors, potential residents can assess the ease with which they can access healthcare services, making informed decisions about their future. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes.