27986, Winton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27986, Winton, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.05 percent of residents in 27986 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 7.72 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Winton, NC (ZIP Code 27986)**

The specter of lung cancer looms large, a diagnosis demanding immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of Winton, North Carolina, nestled within the 27986 ZIP code, the challenge extends beyond the disease itself. It encompasses the critical element of healthcare access, intricately interwoven with the realities of transportation. This write-up unveils a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, a localized evaluation of transportation options and their impact on timely medical attention. It is designed to provide a clear picture for residents or individuals considering moving to Winton, NC, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer.

The score considers various factors: drive times to oncology centers, public transportation limitations, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Each facet is assessed based on its potential to facilitate or hinder a patient’s journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. A high score suggests readily available and accessible transportation, while a low score highlights significant barriers.

**The Transportation Landscape: Highways and Roads**

The primary artery connecting Winton to larger healthcare hubs is US-17, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving south on US-17 offers access to healthcare facilities in areas like Elizabeth City, approximately a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic. This route is generally well-maintained, though potential delays can arise during peak travel times or due to accidents.

Traveling east on NC-37 provides an alternative route, potentially leading to healthcare options in the Outer Banks region, though these are more limited in terms of specialized oncology services. The drive time on NC-37 is roughly similar to US-17, contingent on traffic conditions.

Smaller, local roads like NC-42 and secondary routes provide access to nearby towns and may be useful for reaching primary care physicians or urgent care facilities. However, these roads are less direct and may not be suitable for patients requiring rapid transport to specialized cancer centers.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Reality**

The public transportation infrastructure in Winton and surrounding areas is minimal. The primary mode of public transportation is the Albemarle Regional Transportation Authority (ARTA). ARTA provides bus services within a limited radius, primarily serving the towns of Hertford, Edenton, and Elizabeth City.

Unfortunately, ARTA's routes and schedules may not directly serve Winton or offer frequent connections to specialized oncology centers. The ARTA system is not specifically designed to address the needs of cancer patients. ADA accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on ARTA buses, but the limited route network and infrequent service present significant challenges for patients requiring regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region, including Elizabeth City. However, their availability in Winton itself may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive and unreliable, especially for frequent appointments or emergency situations.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans or First Medical Transport provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including transport to and from medical appointments. These services are typically pre-scheduled and can accommodate patients with mobility limitations. However, availability may be limited, and costs can be substantial, potentially posing a financial burden for patients.

**Healthcare Access: Oncology Centers and Beyond**

The nearest comprehensive oncology centers are located in Elizabeth City, which is the closest major medical hub. These centers offer a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The drive time to these facilities, approximately 45-60 minutes, is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Patients may also need to travel to larger medical centers in Norfolk, Virginia, or Greenville, North Carolina, for specialized treatments or clinical trials. These trips involve significantly longer drive times, potentially exceeding two hours, and can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for Winton (27986) reflects the interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. The score is a subjective assessment based on the factors described above.

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive to Elizabeth City offers a moderate advantage.
* **Public Transportation:** The lack of reliable public transportation significantly hinders access.
* **Ride-Share:** Limited availability in Winton and cost considerations.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability and cost are a concern.

**Overall Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Winton, NC (27986) is considered to be **moderate to low**. While the proximity to Elizabeth City offers some advantages, the limited public transportation, potential ride-share challenges, and the cost of medical transport services create significant barriers for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer.

**Recommendations for Residents and Potential Movers**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Residents and potential movers should carefully evaluate their access to a reliable vehicle.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance to secure transportation.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to oncology centers and other healthcare facilities.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Advocate for increased public transportation options and ride-sharing services in the area.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

For residents of Winton, NC, the journey through lung cancer treatment requires careful planning and resourcefulness. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of transportation in accessing timely and effective care. Understanding the limitations and exploring all available options is crucial for navigating this challenging journey. For those considering moving to Winton, a thorough assessment of transportation and healthcare access should be a priority.