27962, Plymouth, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27962, Plymouth, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.53 percent of residents in 27962 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hosp Inc with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plymouth, NC (ZIP Code 27962)

Plymouth, North Carolina, a town nestled along the Roanoke River in Washington County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up aims to assess the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare services, assigning a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the available transportation options and the proximity of specialized medical facilities. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing vital care, influencing the quality of life for individuals and families. This is crucial information for anyone **moving to Plymouth** or already residing within this ZIP code.

The primary determinant of our score will be the **transportation** infrastructure. The ability to reach oncologists, radiation therapists, pulmonologists, and diagnostic centers is paramount. We will delve into drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural setting.

**Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

The most common mode of transportation in Plymouth is the personal vehicle. Driving is often the quickest, most flexible option, especially for those with mobility limitations or needing frequent appointments. However, the rural nature of the area dictates longer travel times to specialized medical facilities.

The closest major medical centers equipped to handle complex lung cancer cases are located in Greenville, NC, approximately 50 miles away. This journey primarily involves navigating US-64 East, a vital artery connecting Plymouth to the larger regional hub. Expect a drive time of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise during inclement weather.

Another option involves traveling to Norfolk, Virginia, which is roughly 100 miles away. This route utilizes US-64 East, transitioning onto US-17 North. Drive times to Norfolk can range from 2 to 2.5 hours, considering traffic, particularly around the Hampton Roads area. This longer distance necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which often require daily or frequent visits.

Smaller, local clinics and primary care physicians are available within Plymouth, offering initial consultations and some diagnostic services. However, these facilities typically lack the specialized equipment and expertise required for advanced lung cancer treatment. Patients will inevitably need to travel to Greenville or Norfolk for comprehensive care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Resource**

Public transit options in Washington County are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transportation system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

There is a local transit service, but it is primarily geared towards serving the elderly and disabled populations, with limited routes and schedules. The service may offer door-to-door transportation, but it requires advance booking and is not designed for frequent, time-sensitive medical appointments. The availability of this service and its suitability for cancer patients should be carefully assessed by contacting the Washington County Transportation Department.

The lack of a comprehensive public transit system underscores the challenges faced by residents relying on alternative transportation. The absence of readily available buses or trains necessitates reliance on other means of reaching medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Greenville and Norfolk areas. However, their presence in Plymouth is limited. Securing a ride-share vehicle for a trip to Greenville or Norfolk may prove difficult, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies specialize in this area, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can be a financial burden for patients and their families.

Some medical transport brands operating in the area include, but are not limited to, Firstat Nursing Services, and MedTrans Corporation. These services can be contacted directly to inquire about availability, pricing, and the types of services offered.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing cancer treatment, the accessibility of transportation options is critical. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and medical transportation providers offer accessible vehicles and services.

When evaluating transportation options, it is essential to inquire about the ADA compliance of each service. Ensure that vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts, that drivers are trained in assisting passengers with mobility limitations, and that appointments are scheduled to accommodate travel time and potential delays.

**The Lung Cancer Score and Recommendations**

Considering the factors above, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 27962 is moderate. The primary challenge lies in the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The drive times to specialized medical facilities in Greenville and Norfolk are significant, potentially adding stress and inconvenience to an already difficult situation.

**Healthcare access** is further complicated by the lack of robust public transit and the potential difficulty in securing ride-share services. While medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

**Recommendations:**

* **For individuals considering moving to Plymouth:** Carefully assess your transportation needs and the availability of support networks. If you do not have a reliable vehicle or access to someone who can provide transportation, you may face significant challenges in accessing timely medical care.
* **For current residents:** Explore all available transportation options, including medical transportation services. Contact the Washington County Transportation Department to inquire about their services and eligibility requirements.
* **Advocate for improved transportation:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public transit options in the area, particularly those that prioritize **healthcare access**.
* **Coordinate care:** Work closely with your healthcare providers to schedule appointments efficiently and minimize travel time. Explore the possibility of telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments or routine check-ups.
* **Community support:** Seek support from local organizations and support groups that offer assistance to cancer patients, including transportation assistance, financial aid, and emotional support.

The challenges of navigating healthcare in a rural setting can be daunting, especially for those battling lung cancer. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively seeking solutions, residents of Plymouth can improve their **healthcare access** and enhance their quality of life. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for a more in-depth evaluation of the resources available to those facing this serious illness.