27306, Mount Gilead, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27306, Mount Gilead, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.09 percent of residents in 27306 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chatham Hospital Inc with a distance of 46.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27306

Moving to Mount Gilead, North Carolina, in ZIP Code 27306, presents a unique set of considerations, particularly regarding healthcare access. This analysis focuses on transportation options impacting lung cancer patients, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility within the context of available transportation.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical consultations. Delays in reaching these services can significantly impact patient outcomes. Thus, our score prioritizes speed, reliability, and the availability of accessible options for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

Mount Gilead is a rural community, and personal vehicle transportation remains the most common method for accessing healthcare. The primary thoroughfare is **US-220**, which offers relatively direct access to larger medical centers. Driving to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via US-220 South. This drive time, while manageable, can be challenging for patients undergoing treatment, especially those experiencing fatigue or side effects.

Another option is **NC-73**, which connects Mount Gilead to Charlotte. Reaching Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, a comprehensive cancer treatment facility, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey, although offering access to specialized care, presents a significant time commitment. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can be affected by weather, potentially further extending travel times.

Smaller, local clinics and primary care physicians are accessible within Mount Gilead and the surrounding towns. However, these facilities may not offer specialized lung cancer treatment. The drive to the nearest radiation oncology center, likely located in either Pinehurst or Charlotte, becomes a crucial factor in the patient's treatment plan. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the impact of these drive times on the overall accessibility of care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in 27306 are extremely limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access. There is no established public bus system operating within the town itself. The lack of a robust public transit network disproportionately affects individuals who cannot drive, have limited mobility, or cannot afford the costs associated with private transportation.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the possibility of a county-operated demand-response service, often referred to as a "dial-a-ride" program, may exist. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for patients with disabilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the challenges posed by the lack of accessible and reliable public transit.

**Ride-Sharing: A Modern Solution, But Not a Panacea**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mount Gilead area, offering a potential solution for patients needing transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option, especially for frequent trips.

The reliability of ride-sharing is another concern. Patients undergoing cancer treatment often have unpredictable schedules, and delays or cancellations can disrupt their care. Furthermore, the availability of drivers with vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids is not guaranteed. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the practicality and affordability of ride-sharing as a viable transportation option.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Assistance**

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide transportation in vehicles equipped with medical equipment and staffed by trained personnel. Companies such as AMR (American Medical Response) and various local ambulance services operate in the region.

However, medical transport is typically reserved for patients with significant medical needs and is often more expensive than other transportation options. Insurance coverage varies, and patients may face out-of-pocket costs. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical transport services.

**The "Lung Cancer Score": A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 27306 will be determined by a weighted analysis of the factors discussed above. Drive times to major cancer treatment centers will be the most significant factor, followed by the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport. The lack of public transit will negatively impact the score, reflecting the challenges faced by individuals without access to personal vehicles.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. A lower score will highlight the need for improved transportation options and increased support for patients navigating the complexities of cancer treatment. The final score will be accompanied by recommendations for improving healthcare access in Mount Gilead, including advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and supporting programs that assist patients with transportation costs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead**

Moving to Mount Gilead, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, requires careful consideration of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation challenges and identifying potential solutions. By understanding the limitations of current transportation options, patients can proactively plan for their healthcare needs, ensuring timely access to treatment and improving their chances of a positive outcome. The journey through lung cancer treatment is arduous, and navigating the transportation landscape should not add to the burden.