27574, Roxboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.94 percent of residents in 27574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.63 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Roxboro, NC (ZIP Code 27574)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely access to quality healthcare is paramount in the fight against this disease. For residents of Roxboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27574), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This Lung Cancer Score analysis delves into the intricate web of **transportation** options available, assessing their impact on **healthcare access** and providing a nuanced understanding for those considering **moving to Roxboro**.

The primary determinant of a favorable Lung Cancer Score is the proximity and accessibility of comprehensive medical facilities. In this assessment, we'll consider the drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers, the availability and efficacy of public transit, the convenience of ride-sharing services, and the specialized support offered by medical transport providers. Each facet contributes to a holistic picture, revealing the ease or difficulty individuals face in securing the necessary care.

Roxboro itself is a relatively rural community, and this geographical reality significantly shapes the healthcare landscape. The primary hospital serving the area is Person Memorial Hospital, located within the town limits. While offering essential services, including oncology support, it may not possess the full spectrum of specialized treatments or advanced technologies found at larger, regional facilities. This necessitates travel for certain procedures, making **transportation** a vital consideration.

The most direct route to many regional healthcare providers involves driving. Residents of 27574 enjoy relatively easy access to major roadways. Traveling east on US-501 provides a swift connection to Durham, a major healthcare hub. This route, typically spanning 45 minutes to an hour, leads to Duke University Hospital and Duke Cancer Institute, renowned for their expertise in lung cancer treatment. The journey involves primarily driving on US-501, a well-maintained highway, making it a relatively straightforward commute.

Heading south on US-501 offers access to the Triangle area, including Raleigh, where WakeMed Raleigh Campus and UNC Hospitals offer specialized oncology services. However, this trip can take up to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. The route involves a mix of highway driving on US-501 and navigating the more congested urban roads of Raleigh.

Traveling west on NC-49, a more scenic but potentially slower route, leads towards Greensboro and Winston-Salem, both home to major medical centers. The drive time to these locations can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific destination and traffic. This route involves a combination of state highways and rural roads.

Public **transportation** options in Roxboro are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The local transit authority, Person County Public Transportation, offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is primarily geared towards general transportation needs and may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of public transit to regional healthcare facilities is even more constrained. There are no direct bus routes connecting Roxboro to Durham or Raleigh. Individuals relying on public transit would need to utilize a combination of local services and potentially transfer to regional bus lines, significantly increasing travel time and complexity. The lack of readily available public **transportation** can be a major barrier to **healthcare access** for those with limited mobility or financial constraints. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on these buses are limited, which can pose a significant challenge to those with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Roxboro, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, especially for frequent medical appointments or longer distances. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can make it difficult to schedule appointments and ensure timely arrival at medical facilities.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option for those with mobility limitations. However, availability can be limited, and advance booking is usually required.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Roxboro, NC (27574) reflects a mixed bag. While the presence of Person Memorial Hospital provides a local point of care, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized treatments at regional centers is a significant factor. The limited availability of public transit, the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the need to pre-arrange medical **transportation** services further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering **moving to Roxboro**, the Lung Cancer Score should be a critical consideration. Those with existing health conditions or those at high risk for lung cancer should carefully evaluate the **transportation** challenges and assess their ability to navigate the healthcare system. The convenience of driving, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical **transportation** services should all be factored into the decision-making process.

In conclusion, while Roxboro offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the challenges associated with **healthcare access**, particularly for specialized lung cancer care, cannot be ignored. Prospective residents should proactively research their **transportation** options, understand the limitations of public transit, and explore the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make an informed decision and ensure they have the necessary support to navigate the complexities of lung cancer treatment. The score is moderate, with a need for improved public transit and increased access to specialized medical **transportation** services to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents.