27876, Seaboard, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27876, Seaboard, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.37 percent of residents in 27876 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 12.67 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seaboard, NC (ZIP Code 27876)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely diagnosis and treatment are paramount. This write-up delves into the complexities of healthcare access in Seaboard, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27876), providing a "Lung Cancer Score" that considers the crucial element of transportation. For residents and those considering *moving to Seaboard*, understanding the pathways to healthcare is vital. This analysis examines drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing lung cancer care.

Seaboard, a small town nestled in Northampton County, presents unique transportation challenges. The town's rural character, while offering a slower pace of life, often translates to limited *transportation* infrastructure. This can significantly impact *healthcare access*, particularly for individuals facing a serious illness like lung cancer, where time is of the essence. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, weighs these factors to provide a realistic assessment of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.

The primary mode of *transportation* for most Seaboard residents is personal vehicle. The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating a network of highways and roads. The primary artery is US-158, which connects Seaboard to larger towns and cities. Driving east on US-158 leads to Roanoke Rapids, a town with a hospital and several medical practices. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

Heading west on US-158 offers access to more distant healthcare options. This route connects to Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling north on I-95 provides access to healthcare facilities in Emporia, Virginia, approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive. South on I-95 leads to Rocky Mount, a larger city with a more extensive array of medical specialists and hospitals, a drive of about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes.

The secondary roads, such as NC-46 and NC-35, offer alternative routes, but they often involve longer travel times and may not be as well-maintained. These roads can be particularly challenging during inclement weather, potentially delaying access to critical medical appointments or emergency care. The condition of these roads and the distance to major healthcare providers contribute significantly to the Lung Cancer Score.

Public *transportation* options in Seaboard are limited. Northampton County does offer a public transit system, but its services are primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This system, while potentially accessible, may not offer frequent or convenient routes to the larger hospitals and cancer centers located outside of Seaboard. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on these buses is crucial for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

The nearest major public transit hub is in Roanoke Rapids, where some bus services connect to regional and intercity routes. However, the frequency and connectivity of these services may not be ideal for regular medical appointments. The lack of robust public transit options is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger urban centers. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. This unreliability presents a significant challenge for patients who need to schedule regular appointments or require immediate medical attention. The dependence on ride-sharing services can also be costly, further impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical *transportation* services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical *transportation* offer door-to-door service for appointments. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing and may require advance booking. For patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the need for specialized *transportation* can be a significant financial and logistical burden.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are available in Seaboard, and the response time is crucial in the event of a medical crisis. The proximity of the local ambulance service and the ability to quickly transport patients to the nearest hospital are critical components of the Lung Cancer Score. The efficiency and effectiveness of the local EMS are paramount in ensuring timely access to emergency care.

The Lung Cancer Score for Seaboard, NC (27876) reflects the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited *transportation* infrastructure and the distance to specialized medical facilities pose significant hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical *transportation* all contribute to a lower score.

For individuals considering *moving to Seaboard*, it is essential to carefully assess their healthcare needs and *transportation* options. Those with lung cancer or at high risk should prioritize proximity to comprehensive cancer care centers. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning, including securing reliable *transportation* and exploring all available resources to ensure timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The score is not intended to discourage *moving to Seaboard*, but rather to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, including identifying healthcare providers, arranging *transportation* options, and understanding the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. The score also highlights the need for community support and advocacy to improve *healthcare access* for residents of Seaboard and other rural communities.