27893, Wilson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27893, Wilson, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.68 percent of residents in 27893 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilson Medical Center with a distance of 1.64 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilson, NC (ZIP Code 27893)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, is a critical aspect of their well-being. This analysis delves into the accessibility of lung cancer treatment centers for residents of Wilson, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27893), considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. We'll explore drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' to illuminate the realities of healthcare access in this community. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Wilson and needing to understand the healthcare landscape.

Wilson County, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The primary artery for vehicular travel is Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south thoroughfare. US Highway 301 also provides a significant route through the area, intersecting with many local roads. Commuting within the city itself often relies on local roads such as Raleigh Road Parkway, Ward Boulevard, and Nash Street. These roads are crucial for accessing essential services, including medical facilities.

For residents of 27893, the nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers are primarily located in Greenville, Raleigh, and Durham. Driving times to these centers vary significantly depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination. A trip to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, a well-regarded healthcare provider, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour via US-264 East. This journey, while manageable, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment.

Traveling to Duke Cancer Institute in Durham or UNC Health in Chapel Hill, both offering specialized cancer care, involves a longer commute. The drive to Durham, primarily via I-95 North and I-85 North, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. The route to Chapel Hill, often using I-95 North and I-40 West, is similar in duration. These longer drives can be particularly challenging for patients experiencing fatigue, nausea, or other side effects of cancer treatment.

Public transportation options in Wilson are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Wilson Area Transit System (WATS) operates a bus service within the city limits, but its routes and frequency are not designed for extensive travel to regional healthcare facilities. The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for accessing specialized cancer care.

WATS does offer some ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited scope of the system and the lack of routes extending to major cancer treatment centers pose a significant barrier for individuals reliant on public transportation. This limitation highlights the need for expanded public transit options to improve healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Wilson, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The expense of frequent ride-sharing trips to distant medical facilities can also be a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability and cost of medical transport can vary. Some insurance plans may cover medical transport, while others may not, further complicating healthcare access.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP Code 27893 is influenced by several factors. The relatively long drive times to cancer treatment centers, the limited public transportation options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport all contribute to a moderate score. While the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport offers some alternatives, the overall accessibility of healthcare is constrained by the transportation infrastructure.

For individuals considering moving to Wilson, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The need for a personal vehicle becomes almost essential for accessing specialized cancer care. The availability of family support or a strong social network to assist with transportation can also significantly impact the quality of life for patients.

The future of healthcare access in Wilson could benefit from several improvements. Expanding the WATS system to include routes to regional medical centers would be a significant step forward. Collaborations between healthcare providers and transportation services to offer subsidized or discounted transportation options could also improve accessibility. Investing in infrastructure to improve traffic flow on major roadways could reduce commute times and alleviate stress for patients.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access in Wilson. It highlights the critical role of transportation in determining the quality of care for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, the community can work towards creating a more accessible and supportive healthcare environment for all residents, making Wilson a more attractive place to live and receive care. The focus on transportation is paramount to ensuring equitable healthcare access.