27553, Manson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27553, Manson, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.91 percent of residents in 27553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Maria Parham Medical Center with a distance of 10.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 27553

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change, a sentiment particularly acute for those considering a move to Manson, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 27553. This rural haven, steeped in history and natural beauty, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, especially when considering healthcare access, a critical factor in the well-being of any community, particularly those with elevated risks like lung cancer. This write-up delves into the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access for residents of 27553, offering a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ability to reach medical facilities. For residents of 27553, this often translates to a dependence on personal vehicles. The primary arteries of travel are US-1, the main north-south corridor, and NC-58, which meanders east-west. The drive to the nearest hospitals, like Maria Parham Health in Oxford (approximately 20-30 minutes) or Duke University Hospital in Durham (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes), becomes a daily consideration for those requiring regular medical care, including oncology appointments.

The condition of these roadways, the flow of traffic, and the ever-present variables of weather and accidents all contribute to the overall "transportation" burden. A sudden downpour or a stalled vehicle on US-1 can quickly transform a routine commute into a stressful ordeal, potentially delaying critical treatment. The distance itself, coupled with the often limited availability of public transportation, paints a picture of potential isolation for those facing serious health challenges.

Public transit options in 27553 are, regrettably, limited. The lack of a robust public transportation system significantly impacts healthcare access. The absence of a local bus network or dedicated routes connecting Manson to major medical centers in Durham or Raleigh presents a significant hurdle. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle, particularly those with mobility limitations, face considerable difficulty in attending appointments, undergoing treatments, or simply accessing preventative care.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation, but the absence of readily available public transit in 27553 renders this a moot point. The lack of accessible options, such as wheelchair-accessible buses or paratransit services, further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or those undergoing cancer treatment. This dearth of accessible transportation underscores the importance of exploring alternative solutions.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a potential lifeline, but their availability in rural areas can be inconsistent and expensive. The cost of a ride to Durham, even for a routine check-up, can quickly accumulate, placing a financial strain on individuals already grappling with the expenses associated with cancer care. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or late at night, remains a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized solution. Companies like Care Ride or First Medical Transportation offer door-to-door service, ensuring patients arrive safely and on time. However, these services often come with a higher price tag, and their availability may be limited, particularly in a rural area like 27553.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 27553 is therefore a complex equation, weighed down by the constraints of limited transportation options. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing timely and affordable healthcare, particularly for those battling lung cancer. The lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a lower score.

For individuals considering moving to Manson, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. It is essential to assess the available transportation options, the distance to medical facilities, and the potential financial burden associated with healthcare access. This is especially important for individuals with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, as frequent medical appointments and treatments are often necessary.

The journey to healthcare in 27553 is not merely a physical one; it is a journey fraught with potential obstacles. The absence of a comprehensive transportation network creates barriers to access, potentially delaying crucial diagnoses and treatments. The financial implications of relying on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation can also be a significant burden, adding to the stress and anxiety already associated with a cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 27553 is a call to action. It highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and increased access to affordable healthcare services. This could include advocating for the expansion of public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, or supporting the development of community-based medical transportation programs.

The challenges faced by residents of 27553 underscore the importance of proactive planning and community support. For those considering moving to Manson, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount. This includes researching the availability of medical facilities, understanding the transportation options, and evaluating the potential financial implications.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 27553 reflects the complex interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While the beauty and tranquility of Manson are undeniable, the limitations in transportation options present a significant challenge for those seeking timely and affordable medical care. This score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability to reach them. The future of healthcare access in 27553 depends on the community's ability to address these challenges and create a more equitable and accessible system for all residents, particularly those facing the daunting battle against lung cancer.