27569, Princeton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27569, Princeton, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.79 percent of residents in 27569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 10.75 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Princeton, NC (ZIP Code 27569)

Relocating to a new community, especially when considering potential healthcare needs, necessitates a thorough understanding of local resources. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27569 (Princeton, North Carolina), focusing on transportation options and healthcare access relevant to individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer. This score considers the practical challenges of accessing specialized medical care, a critical factor in successful treatment and improved outcomes.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a guide to understanding the logistical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in Princeton. We will examine the available transportation infrastructure, including road networks, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all essential for patients requiring frequent appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The goal is to provide a clear picture for individuals considering a move to Princeton or those already residing there, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Road Networks and Drive Times:**

Princeton, nestled in Johnston County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary thoroughfare is US-70, a major east-west highway connecting Princeton to larger cities and medical centers. Driving east on US-70 offers access to healthcare facilities in Goldsboro, approximately a 20-minute drive. This includes Wayne UNC Health Care, a comprehensive hospital offering cancer treatment services.

Traveling west on US-70 leads to Raleigh, the state capital, where more specialized cancer care options are available. The drive to Raleigh, however, can be significantly longer, averaging around 50-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route involves navigating US-70, often congested during peak hours, and transitioning onto I-40.

Other important roads in the area include NC-581, providing north-south access, and various local roads that connect Princeton to surrounding communities. These roads, while offering alternative routes, may be less direct and potentially slower than the major highways. For individuals with lung cancer, the reliability and predictability of travel times are crucial, especially for time-sensitive treatments like radiation therapy.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in Princeton are limited. Johnston County Transportation provides demand-response services, offering door-to-door transportation for residents. However, these services typically require advance booking and may not be ideal for spontaneous appointments or urgent medical needs. The availability of these services for specialized cancer care, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, should be thoroughly investigated.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability of accessible transportation and the ease of scheduling are vital aspects of healthcare access in Princeton. Public transit, while offering a potential solution, may not be a consistently reliable option for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Princeton, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, particularly for those unable to drive. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. This is especially important to consider for early morning appointments or late-night treatments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private companies or specialized non-profit organizations, offer dedicated transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Researching the availability of medical transport providers in the area, their service areas, and associated costs is crucial.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The primary healthcare access point for residents of Princeton is Wayne UNC Health Care in Goldsboro. This facility offers a range of services, including cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, for specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to Raleigh.

The distance to Raleigh and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning. Patients should factor in travel time when scheduling appointments and consider the potential impact on their treatment schedule. This includes the availability of parking at medical facilities and the accessibility of those facilities for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Lung Cancer Score – A Summary:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Princeton, NC (ZIP code 27569) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Goldsboro offers convenient access to basic cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the longer travel times to Raleigh for specialized treatment pose challenges. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability may vary.

**Moving to Princeton?** Individuals considering a move to Princeton should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. Researching local medical transport services, confirming the availability of accessible transportation, and understanding the potential travel times to specialized cancer care centers are essential.

**Living in Princeton with Lung Cancer:** Patients already residing in Princeton should proactively explore all available transportation options. Establishing relationships with ride-sharing providers, investigating medical transport services, and planning travel routes in advance are crucial for managing healthcare appointments effectively.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While Princeton offers a relatively convenient location, the challenges of navigating the road network and the limited public transit options underscore the need for careful planning and resourcefulness in accessing essential medical care.