27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.33 percent of residents in 27948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 6.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kill Devil Hills (ZIP Code 27948)

The salty air and sprawling beaches of Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27948), beckon with a siren song of coastal living. Yet, beneath the idyllic surface lies a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move: **healthcare access**, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis delves into the **transportation** landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities within this Outer Banks community.

The primary concern, of course, is the availability of prompt and effective treatment. Lung cancer diagnosis and care demand specialized facilities and expertise, often requiring travel. The remoteness of the Outer Banks presents a unique set of hurdles. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all vital components of **healthcare access**.

Kill Devil Hills is primarily served by US-158, the main artery connecting the Outer Banks. This highway, also known as the "Bypass," experiences significant traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. North Carolina Highway 12, the scenic coastal route, offers breathtaking views but can be slow and prone to closures during storms. These factors directly impact the time it takes to reach healthcare providers.

For residents of Kill Devil Hills, the closest comprehensive cancer care is likely found in Elizabeth City, approximately 50 miles away. A drive via US-158 could take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey represents a significant time commitment for regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or emergency situations.

Norfolk, Virginia, offers a wider array of specialized cancer centers, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and the EVMS Glennan Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology. The drive, primarily via US-158 and US-168, extends to roughly 2 hours, potentially longer during rush hour or tourist congestion. This extended travel time adds a layer of stress and logistical complexity for patients and their families.

Public transit options are limited in the Outer Banks. The Dare County Transportation System offers a demand-response service, operating Monday through Friday. This service, while potentially helpful for local errands, is unlikely to be a reliable option for regular medical appointments due to its limited hours and potential wait times. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a key factor in the service, but scheduling and availability would need to be confirmed.

The absence of a robust public transportation system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods. The cost of maintaining a vehicle, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, adds to the financial and emotional burden of managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Outer Banks, although their availability can fluctuate depending on the season and driver availability. Relying on these services for regular medical appointments is risky due to potential wait times, surge pricing, and the unpredictability of driver availability, especially during inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a crucial lifeline for patients unable to drive themselves. However, these services come at a significant cost and may require prior authorization from insurance companies. The availability of specialized medical transport for patients requiring oxygen or other medical equipment is another crucial consideration.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and companies specializing in NEMT. These services offer a range of options, from basic transportation to more specialized care, but the cost and availability vary. Thorough research and pre-planning are essential to ensure access to appropriate medical transport when needed.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the availability of local healthcare providers. The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, though not a dedicated cancer center, provides a range of medical services, including primary care and some diagnostic testing. This local resource can be a valuable starting point for initial screenings and referrals.

The proximity to local pharmacies and medical supply stores is another critical factor. Easy access to medications, oxygen, and other essential supplies can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

**Moving to Kill Devil Hills** requires careful consideration of these factors. While the beauty and tranquility of the Outer Banks are undeniable, the limitations in **healthcare access** must be weighed against the benefits of coastal living. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a tool for prospective residents to evaluate the practicality of accessing necessary medical care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Kill Devil Hills (ZIP Code 27948) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The score will be a composite of drive times to specialized cancer centers, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the presence of local healthcare resources. The final score will be a valuable tool for individuals considering a move to this beautiful but geographically isolated community, highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access** in the face of a serious illness like lung cancer. The score will emphasize the need for careful planning, pre-existing knowledge of the local **transportation** options, and a proactive approach to securing access to the necessary medical care.