27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.49 percent of residents in 27953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 32.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 9.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Manns Harbor, NC (ZIP Code 27953)

The salty air and serene waters of Manns Harbor, North Carolina, offer a tranquil escape. Yet, beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration for prospective residents: healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 27953, evaluating its impact on healthcare access, especially for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer treatment. The goal is to provide a Lung Cancer Score, a practical guide for navigating the complexities of transportation to vital medical services.

Manns Harbor, a small community nestled on the Albemarle Sound, presents unique challenges in terms of transportation. The primary artery connecting the area to the broader healthcare network is US-64, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on US-64 offers the most direct route to larger medical centers. However, the drive can be deceptively long, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

The closest significant medical facilities are located in Manteo, approximately a 20-minute drive east on US-64. The Outer Banks Hospital, a critical access hospital, provides a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and some outpatient care. While it may not offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment, it serves as a crucial initial point of contact and can facilitate referrals to specialized centers.

For more advanced treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology, patients typically need to travel further. The drive to the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately a 45-minute drive west on US-64, represents the next tier of healthcare access. This hospital offers a broader spectrum of services, potentially including some aspects of lung cancer treatment.

The journey to larger, specialized cancer centers becomes a significant consideration. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, a drive of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. This necessitates travel across the Virginia state line, adding complexity to the transportation equation. The routes typically involve US-64 East to US-17 North, then various interstate highways depending on the specific destination.

The drive times mentioned above represent ideal conditions. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons, can significantly extend travel times. The Outer Banks is a popular vacation destination, and the influx of visitors during the summer months can create considerable delays, impacting healthcare access for residents.

Public transportation options within and around Manns Harbor are extremely limited. The Dare County Transportation System provides some services, but its reach is restricted. The system primarily focuses on demand-response transportation, requiring advance booking and offering limited routes. The service is designed to assist seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. ADA-compliant vehicles are available, but the system's overall scope is insufficient to provide reliable, convenient transportation for regular medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles. This presents a significant challenge for individuals with lung cancer, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other debilitating symptoms. Driving becomes increasingly difficult, and the need for alternative transportation options becomes paramount.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for individuals facing the financial strain of cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. These services cater specifically to patients needing transportation to and from medical appointments. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist with patient needs. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, but their availability and coverage vary. Researching and securing reliable medical transportation is crucial for residents of Manns Harbor.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27953 reflects the interplay of these factors. The score considers drive times, public transportation limitations, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transport services. It also factors in the potential impact of seasonal traffic and the distance to specialized cancer centers.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing, the Lung Cancer Score for Manns Harbor is moderate. The score reflects the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent treatments. While the Outer Banks Hospital offers local care, the need to travel to Elizabeth City and the Hampton Roads area for more specialized treatment adds complexity and time to the healthcare journey.

The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning and proactive measures. Individuals considering moving to Manns Harbor or those already residing there should prioritize the following:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate the reliability and condition of their personal vehicle. Ensure it is properly maintained and equipped for long-distance travel.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Research and identify reputable medical transportation providers in the area. Establish contact and understand their services, costs, and availability.
* **Plan for Travel Time:** Factor in potential traffic delays, especially during peak seasons. Allow ample time for travel to appointments and consider the impact of weather conditions.
* **Utilize Support Networks:** Leverage family, friends, and community resources to assist with transportation needs.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public transportation options and improving healthcare access in the region.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static metric. It serves as a dynamic tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Manns Harbor. By acknowledging the transportation landscape and proactively addressing its limitations, residents can navigate the complexities of healthcare and improve their chances of successful treatment. The journey to healthcare access is a critical component of moving to Manns Harbor, and understanding the transportation infrastructure is essential for making informed decisions. The score is meant to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.