27504, Benson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27504, Benson, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.41 percent of residents in 27504 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wakemed, Cary Hospital with a distance of 26.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Benson, NC (ZIP Code 27504)

The air in Benson, North Carolina, carries the scent of pine and possibility, a welcome aroma for those seeking a slower pace of life. But for individuals battling lung cancer, the serenity of this Johnston County town hinges on something more critical: **healthcare access**. This write-up explores the realities of accessing lung cancer care within ZIP code 27504, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on the patient journey. We'll analyze drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone considering **moving to Benson** or currently residing there.

The Lung Cancer Score for Benson, NC, is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment of the challenges and opportunities patients face when seeking diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. It considers the geographical constraints, the availability of transportation, and the proximity of specialized medical facilities. This score is designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, recognizing that timely and convenient access to care is paramount in the fight against lung cancer.

The cornerstone of **healthcare access** in Benson is, undoubtedly, the automobile. For residents of 27504, the primary routes to medical facilities involve navigating the network of highways and roads that crisscross the region. The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Johnston Health, located in Smithfield. The drive to Smithfield from Benson typically involves taking US-301 North or US-70 Business East, with the trip averaging around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for residents of Benson, providing a degree of convenience not always found in rural areas.

However, the journey to more specialized cancer centers, such as Duke Cancer Institute in Durham or UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, presents a greater **transportation** challenge. These facilities offer cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials, but they require a longer commute. The drive to Durham, primarily via I-40 West, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, while the trip to Chapel Hill, often involving a combination of I-40 West and US-15-501 South, can stretch to an hour or more. These longer drive times can be particularly taxing for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, adding to the physical and emotional burden of treatment.

Public transit options in Benson are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some bus services, but they are primarily focused on local routes and do not offer direct connections to major medical centers outside of Smithfield. The frequency of service is also limited, making it a less viable option for patients requiring frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, though mandated, may not always align with the scheduling needs of cancer patients. This deficiency in public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving, but their availability in Benson is variable. While these services operate in the area, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make them an expensive option. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments is not always guaranteed, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments. This uncertainty can be a source of considerable stress for patients already grappling with the complexities of their illness.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transit. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services typically require advance booking and may involve pre-authorization from insurance providers. While these options provide a vital link to healthcare, they can be costly and may not always be readily available, particularly for urgent appointments or last-minute changes in treatment schedules.

The availability of specialized cancer care within Benson itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to larger medical centers for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of **transportation** resources. The lack of local oncology services underscores the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape and the potential challenges it presents.

For individuals considering **moving to Benson**, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of factoring in **healthcare access** as a key consideration. While the town offers a peaceful environment and a lower cost of living, the need to travel for specialized medical care is a significant factor. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their **transportation** options, assess their ability to drive, and consider the availability of support networks that can assist with appointments and travel.

The Lung Cancer Score for Benson, NC, is not intended to discourage individuals from residing in this community. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities that exist, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By understanding the **transportation** landscape, patients can proactively plan for their medical appointments, ensuring they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.

The future of **healthcare access** in Benson may see improvements. The expansion of telehealth services, for instance, could reduce the need for frequent travel for certain types of appointments. Increased investment in public transit or the expansion of ride-sharing services could also improve **transportation** options for patients. However, for the present, residents of 27504 must navigate the existing **transportation** infrastructure to access the specialized care they need.

The journey through lung cancer is arduous, and the logistical challenges of accessing care can add to the burden. By acknowledging the realities of **transportation** in Benson, patients can proactively seek solutions, leverage available resources, and advocate for improvements in **healthcare access**. This proactive approach, combined with the support of family, friends, and healthcare providers, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals battling this devastating disease. The hope is that the serene environment of Benson can be complemented by robust and accessible healthcare, making it a truly supportive community for all its residents.