27604, Raleigh, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27604, Raleigh, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.26 percent of residents in 27604 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Duke Health Raleigh Hospital with a distance of 2.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27604

Considering a move to Raleigh, North Carolina, specifically ZIP code 27604? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating healthcare access for individuals facing or at risk of this disease. The score considers transportation options to key medical facilities, recognizing the critical role mobility plays in timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This is particularly vital given the complex and often frequent appointments required for lung cancer management.

The 27604 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, including portions of downtown Raleigh and surrounding residential neighborhoods. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare providers, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in 27604 are Interstate 40 (I-40), Interstate 440 (I-440, the Raleigh Beltline), US-1, and US-64. These arteries connect residents to major hospitals and specialized cancer centers. Drive times, however, can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, especially during peak hours.

For example, reaching Duke Raleigh Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 27604 typically involves navigating I-440 and US-1. The distance is relatively short, but rush-hour congestion can easily extend the commute. Similarly, accessing WakeMed Raleigh Campus, another critical facility, often involves I-40, adding another layer of potential delays.

Traveling to UNC Rex Hospital, located west of 27604, generally utilizes I-40 and Wade Avenue. The distance is manageable, but traffic conditions can significantly impact the journey, particularly during morning and evening commutes. The Lung Cancer Score considers these potential delays, understanding that every minute matters when dealing with a serious illness.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City**

Raleigh's public transit system, GoRaleigh, offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. Several bus routes serve the 27604 area, providing access to healthcare facilities.

Route 1, a frequent service, connects downtown Raleigh to various locations, including some medical offices. Route 2, Route 4, and Route 12 also offer routes that can be used to access medical services. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends, can be a challenge.

The GoRaleigh system is committed to ADA accessibility, with features like ramps, lifts, and audio-visual announcements to assist passengers with disabilities. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients who may experience mobility limitations or require assistance. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential transfer times can still present obstacles, especially for those needing urgent care or facing treatment schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide on-demand transportation options within 27604. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit, especially for appointments at various healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly with frequent trips for treatments or check-ups.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local companies, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medical equipment. While offering specialized support, these services typically come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for 27604 emphasizes the accessibility of key healthcare providers. Proximity to hospitals like Duke Raleigh Hospital, WakeMed Raleigh Campus, and UNC Rex Hospital significantly influences the score. The availability of specialized cancer centers and pulmonology clinics within a reasonable travel distance is also crucial.

The score considers the availability of oncology specialists, radiation therapy centers, and support services, such as support groups and palliative care. The ease of access to these resources directly impacts the quality of care and the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. The score acknowledges that timely access to these services can significantly improve outcomes.

**Moving to Raleigh: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Raleigh, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is essential. The Lung Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the suitability of 27604 as a place to live.

The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that considers various factors. It highlights the importance of considering individual needs and circumstances. Those with mobility limitations or financial constraints may face greater challenges accessing healthcare.

The availability of support services, such as transportation assistance programs and patient navigators, can significantly improve the score. These resources can help patients navigate the healthcare system and overcome transportation barriers.

**Improving the Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 27604 can be improved through various initiatives. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would enhance accessibility. Promoting ride-sharing programs and providing financial assistance for transportation costs could also help.

Furthermore, increasing the number of specialized cancer centers and pulmonology clinics within the area would shorten travel times and improve healthcare access. Investing in patient navigation services and support groups can also help patients navigate the healthcare system and overcome transportation barriers.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 27604 provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare access for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer. By considering transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, the score highlights the challenges and opportunities for accessing timely and effective care. For those considering moving to Raleigh, understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score serves as a starting point for evaluating the suitability of 27604, emphasizing the importance of considering individual circumstances and the availability of support services to improve healthcare access and patient outcomes.