27983, Windsor, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27983, Windsor, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.97 percent of residents in 27983 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Bertie Hospital with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Windsor, NC (ZIP Code 27983)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of the Roanoke River in Windsor, North Carolina, a town steeped in history and the quiet rhythms of rural life. For those considering a move to Windsor, or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, understanding the complexities of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services, particularly in the context of lung cancer treatment.

The score considers the drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport options available within and around ZIP Code 27983. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape, ultimately informing decisions about where and how to seek care. This is not a medical diagnosis, but rather an informational guide for understanding transportation in the area.

The primary concern is the distance to specialized medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. This is where the "Lung Cancer Score" begins.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Windsor, a town of approximately 2,000 residents, is geographically isolated. The primary routes out of town are US-17 and NC-308. US-17, a major north-south artery, is the most direct route to larger cities offering advanced medical care. The drive to Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, a regional referral hospital, is approximately 55 miles, taking roughly one hour and fifteen minutes under normal traffic conditions. This drive is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during hurricane season, can significantly impact travel times.

Heading north on US-17 leads to Norfolk, Virginia, another potential destination for specialized care. The drive to Norfolk, a city with a wider array of medical options, is about 90 miles and requires approximately two hours. This journey, while longer, offers a broader selection of specialists and treatment facilities.

NC-308 provides an alternative route, connecting Windsor to smaller towns and eventually intersecting with US-17. While offering scenic views, it is not a viable option for reaching major medical centers due to its slower speed and limited access to highways.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these drive times, factoring in the potential for traffic delays, weather disruptions, and the physical toll on patients undergoing treatment. The longer the drive, the lower the score, as it increases the burden on patients and their caregivers.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Windsor are extremely limited. The primary provider is the Bertie County Transportation System, a demand-response service. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, and service is typically limited to weekdays. The system is designed to serve the general public, including those with disabilities. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking make it a challenging option for frequent medical appointments.

The Bertie County Transportation System does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. However, the limited scope of the service significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The lack of reliable, readily available public transit reduces healthcare access, especially for those unable to drive or without access to personal vehicles.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic. Availability fluctuates, especially during off-peak hours and in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments is risky due to potential delays and cancellations.

Medical transportation services, such as private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a more reliable option for patients requiring assistance. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their importance in bridging the gap in public transportation. The cost and insurance coverage of medical transport services also factor into the score, as financial burdens can significantly impact healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Lung Cancer Score" takes into account the overall healthcare access in Windsor. While the town has a local clinic, it may not offer specialized services like oncology or pulmonology. Patients often need to travel to larger cities for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This highlights the importance of considering transportation options when assessing healthcare access.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and support groups, also influences the score. These resources can help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate transportation, and provide emotional support.

**Moving to Windsor: A Realistic Assessment**

For those considering moving to Windsor, a realistic assessment of healthcare access is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options and the potential challenges of accessing specialized medical care.

The score is not intended to discourage individuals from moving to Windsor. Instead, it aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in 27983: A Summary**

In the context of lung cancer, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 27983 reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. The distances to major medical centers are significant, requiring travel times of over an hour.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The Bertie County Transportation System offers some service, but it is restricted by operating hours and the need for pre-booking.
* **Ride-Share:** Sporadic. Availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but potentially expensive. Medical transport services offer a reliable option, but cost and insurance coverage vary.
* **Healthcare Access:** Challenging. Access to specialized lung cancer care requires travel to larger cities.

**Conclusion: Planning for the Future**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Windsor, NC (ZIP Code 27983) highlights the need for careful planning regarding transportation and healthcare access. Individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer should proactively explore transportation options, understand insurance coverage for medical transport, and seek support from patient navigators and social workers.

For those considering moving to Windsor, a thorough evaluation of healthcare access is essential. This includes researching local medical facilities, understanding transportation options, and assessing the availability of support services. By proactively addressing these factors, individuals can navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure access to the care they need. The beauty and tranquility of Windsor can be enjoyed with thoughtful planning, ensuring that healthcare access does not become an insurmountable obstacle.