27525, Franklinton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27525, Franklinton, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.81 percent of residents in 27525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Maria Parham Medical Center with a distance of 15.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Franklinton, NC (ZIP Code 27525)

The decision to relocate, especially when facing health challenges, demands meticulous planning. For those considering a move to Franklinton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27525), and grappling with concerns about lung cancer treatment, understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points is paramount. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the journey from Franklinton to key medical facilities, providing a nuanced perspective on the practicalities of receiving timely and appropriate care. This is crucial for anyone **moving to Franklinton**, ensuring a smooth transition and peace of mind.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers various factors, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This holistic approach aims to paint a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing lung cancer treatment within a reasonable timeframe. We will examine the routes to prominent hospitals and cancer centers, focusing on the primary modes of transportation available to residents of Franklinton.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to many major medical centers from Franklinton involves driving. The primary artery connecting Franklinton to the broader region is US-1 (South Main Street), which offers a relatively straightforward path south. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

For those seeking care at Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, a journey of approximately 40 miles, the most efficient route involves taking US-1 south to I-85 North. The drive, without traffic, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. However, morning and evening commutes can extend this to over an hour and fifteen minutes.

Similarly, accessing UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, roughly 50 miles away, involves US-1 south to I-40 West. This drive can also take between an hour and an hour and fifteen minutes under ideal conditions, but traffic can cause considerable delays, especially around Raleigh and Durham.

WakeMed Cary Hospital, closer at approximately 30 miles, is accessible via US-1 South to I-440 East. This drive usually takes around 40 minutes, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during rush hour. The availability of parking at these facilities is another consideration, which may require additional time.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in Franklinton and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant challenge for those reliant on alternatives to driving. The GoTriangle regional transit system provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for frequent trips to major medical centers.

GoTriangle Route 305, for instance, connects Franklinton to Raleigh, but it operates on a limited schedule, with infrequent service on weekends. This route, while offering a connection to Raleigh's transit network, requires significant time and multiple transfers to reach healthcare facilities. The route may not be ADA-accessible.

Furthermore, the time commitment involved in utilizing public transit for medical appointments can be substantial. The lengthy travel times and potential for delays make public transit a less practical option for many individuals requiring regular cancer treatment.

The lack of extensive public transit infrastructure represents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for residents of Franklinton who cannot or choose not to drive. This limitation emphasizes the importance of considering alternative **transportation** options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Franklinton, offering a more flexible **transportation** solution than public transit. However, the cost of frequent rides to medical appointments can be substantial. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, may also be a concern.

Medical transport services, such as Firstat Nursing Services and Care Ride, specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and assistance with mobility. While these services provide a crucial lifeline for some, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport highlights the challenges faced by individuals in Franklinton who lack personal vehicles or are unable to drive due to health conditions. These **transportation** options can significantly impact the overall cost of healthcare and the ease of **healthcare access**.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Implications for Moving to Franklinton:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Franklinton, based on the above analysis, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to major medical centers in the Triangle area offers access to quality lung cancer treatment, the reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternative **transportation** options presents a significant challenge.

The limited public transit options and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing or medical transport services can create barriers to **healthcare access** for some residents. The drive times, while manageable, are subject to traffic delays, potentially impacting the timeliness of appointments and treatment.

For individuals considering **moving to Franklinton**, these **transportation** factors must be carefully weighed. Those who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will find the commute to healthcare facilities manageable. However, individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the practicality and affordability of alternative **transportation** options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of pre-move planning. Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare facilities they intend to use, considering the distance, travel time, and available **transportation** options. Exploring the costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services is crucial.

Furthermore, individuals with lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease should discuss their **transportation** needs with their healthcare providers. This proactive approach can help ensure that the chosen location provides the necessary support and facilitates timely access to treatment.

In conclusion, while Franklinton offers proximity to excellent medical care, the **transportation** landscape presents unique challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the feasibility of **healthcare access** and making informed decisions about **moving to Franklinton**. Understanding these factors is essential for ensuring a smooth transition and prioritizing well-being in the face of health challenges.