27568, Pine Level, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.13 percent of residents in 27568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 5.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pine Level (ZIP Code 27568)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and the ability to access timely and effective healthcare becomes paramount. For residents of Pine Level, North Carolina (ZIP code 27568), the journey to treatment, from initial diagnosis to ongoing care, hinges significantly on **transportation** options. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, examining the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering the available modes of **transportation**, and providing insights for residents and those considering **moving to Pine Level**.

Pine Level is a rural community, and the availability of specialized medical care, particularly for oncology, is not directly within its borders. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, primarily Smithfield and Raleigh, for comprehensive lung cancer treatment. The quality of life, and potentially survival rates, can be directly impacted by the efficiency and ease of this journey. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a realistic view of **healthcare access** for those living in or considering relocating to this area.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

The primary mode of **transportation** for Pine Level residents is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to Smithfield, home to Johnston Health, is via US-70 Business East, a relatively straightforward drive. The travel time is typically under 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for routine appointments and initial consultations. However, for more specialized care, particularly for lung cancer treatment, patients often need to travel to Raleigh.

The journey to Raleigh, approximately 40 miles, is typically undertaken via I-95 North to I-40 East or US-70 East. Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions, but the average commute is between 45 minutes and an hour. Peak hours, especially during weekday commutes, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially adding stress and fatigue for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of parking at the hospitals and clinics in Raleigh is also a factor to consider, often requiring an additional 15-30 minutes for parking and navigating the facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Pine Level and the surrounding area are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are not extensive. While JCATS offers some routes, they are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly serve major medical centers in Smithfield or Raleigh.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. JCATS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but the need to coordinate schedules and potential wait times can add significant challenges to accessing healthcare. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers further complicate the use of public transit for patients undergoing treatment, especially those experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pine Level area. However, their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients, especially those requiring frequent trips for treatment.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Med-Trans provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. However, they offer a more reliable and comfortable option for patients with mobility issues or those who require assistance during their journey. The availability of these services and their coverage area should be carefully researched.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Pine Level (27568) is a composite measure, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each **transportation** option. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transport services.

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive to Smithfield provides a good starting point for routine appointments. However, the longer commute to Raleigh, especially during peak hours, is a significant challenge.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options significantly hinder **healthcare access**. The lack of direct routes and infrequent schedules make it an impractical option for many patients.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing offers a potential solution, but its reliability and cost are significant concerns.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services provide a reliable option for those with mobility issues, but the cost and pre-booking requirements are factors to consider.

**Considerations for Moving to Pine Level**

For individuals considering **moving to Pine Level**, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating **healthcare access**. Those with existing health conditions, or a family history of lung cancer, should prioritize proximity to comprehensive cancer care facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the need for reliable transportation and the ability to navigate the local roadways.

The lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services emphasize the importance of having a support network. Family members, friends, or community organizations can play a vital role in providing **transportation** assistance and ensuring patients can attend appointments.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Pine Level underscores the challenges of accessing specialized healthcare in a rural community. While the drive to Smithfield offers a reasonable commute, the journey to Raleigh for comprehensive lung cancer treatment requires careful planning and consideration of available **transportation** options. The limitations of public transit and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles, medical transport services, and the support of a strong community network. For residents and those considering **moving to Pine Level**, understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring timely and effective **healthcare access** and navigating the complexities of lung cancer care.