27555, Micro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27555, Micro, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.54 percent of residents in 27555 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 8.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27555

ZIP Code 27555, nestled in the heart of Micro, North Carolina, presents a unique landscape for residents navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up explores the transportation infrastructure and its impact on timely and efficient healthcare access, culminating in a Lung Cancer Score reflecting the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area.

The journey for a patient in Micro begins with understanding the distances and modes of transportation available to reach essential healthcare facilities. The nearest major medical centers capable of providing comprehensive lung cancer care are primarily located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 301.

A drive to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, a regional hub for advanced medical care, involves navigating I-95 North for approximately 60 miles. The drive time, typically around one hour and fifteen minutes under optimal conditions, can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, weather, and the time of day. Alternatively, driving south on I-95 to reach Duke University Hospital in Durham, a nationally recognized cancer center, presents a longer commute, roughly 80 miles and a drive time of around one hour and thirty minutes.

Smaller, local hospitals like Johnston Health in Smithfield offer some basic cancer care services and are more accessible. Traveling via US 301 North and then turning onto US 70, the drive is about 20 miles, taking roughly 30 minutes. However, the scope of care offered at these smaller facilities may not encompass the specialized treatments and advanced technologies available at larger cancer centers. This disparity underscores the importance of considering the level of care needed when evaluating transportation options.

Public transportation options within and around Micro are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some fixed-route and demand-response services, but these are primarily designed for local travel and may not offer direct routes to major medical centers. JCATS buses generally do not operate on weekends or evenings, further restricting healthcare access for those with inflexible work schedules or needing after-hours medical attention. ADA accessibility is a feature of JCATS buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the infrequency of routes and the potential for multiple transfers can make public transit a time-consuming and potentially stressful option for patients undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, are another option. These services often specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments and can provide assistance with mobility and other needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The challenges of transportation in Micro are further compounded by the physical and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis. Fatigue, shortness of breath, and other side effects of treatment can make driving or navigating public transportation even more difficult. The stress of coordinating transportation, managing appointments, and coping with the disease can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. The ability to secure reliable and convenient transportation becomes a critical factor in accessing timely care, adhering to treatment plans, and maintaining overall well-being.

Considering these factors, we can begin to formulate a Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27555. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer treatment. This score will be influenced by the following criteria:

* **Drive Time to Major Cancer Centers:** The average drive time to Vidant Medical Center and Duke University Hospital.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of JCATS services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation options.
* **Local Healthcare Options:** The availability of basic cancer care services at Johnston Health.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** The income levels and access to vehicles within the community.

The Lung Cancer Score will be calculated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most significant transportation barriers and 10 representing the easiest access.

**Analysis of ZIP Code 27555:**

Based on the information gathered, ZIP Code 27555 presents moderate challenges in healthcare access for lung cancer patients. The reliance on personal vehicles for longer commutes to specialized centers is a significant factor. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing services further complicate access. While Johnston Health provides some local care, the need for more specialized treatment often necessitates travel to larger facilities. The socioeconomic factors in the area, including income levels and vehicle ownership, also impact the score.

**Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27555:**

Based on the assessment, the estimated Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27555 is **4 out of 10**. This score reflects the moderate challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access in the area.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the Lung Cancer Score, several initiatives could be implemented:

* **Enhanced Public Transportation:** Increased frequency and route coverage of JCATS services, with direct routes to major medical centers.
* **Partnerships with Ride-Sharing Services:** Subsidized ride-sharing programs for cancer patients.
* **Increased Medical Transportation Options:** Promotion of medical transportation services and potential partnerships with local organizations.
* **Telemedicine Initiatives:** Expansion of telemedicine services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.
* **Community Education:** Increased awareness of available transportation options and resources.

The challenges of transportation in Micro, North Carolina, highlight the critical importance of healthcare access for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. By understanding the existing infrastructure and addressing the barriers to transportation, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. This is especially important for a community like Micro, where the move to Micro may involve a change in access to healthcare and transportation, potentially impacting the quality of life and treatment outcomes for those with lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a tool to assess the current situation and guide efforts to improve healthcare access for the residents of ZIP Code 27555.