28301, Fayetteville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28301, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.79 percent of residents in 28301 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 3.72 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28301)**

Moving to Fayetteville, North Carolina, and specifically the 28301 ZIP code, requires careful consideration of various factors, including healthcare access. For individuals, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer, understanding the nuances of transportation to medical facilities becomes paramount. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare services within and around this area. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation alternatives, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The 28301 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Fayetteville, a city characterized by its sprawling layout and dependence on personal vehicles. The primary thoroughfares impacting healthcare access are Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, and US Highway 401, which runs through the heart of the city. Other crucial roads include US Highway 301, and major arteries like Raeford Road and Bragg Boulevard.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, the largest hospital in the area, is a central hub. From various points within 28301, drive times to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location. Peak hours, particularly during weekday commutes, can significantly extend these times, making timely access to appointments and emergency care more challenging.

Specialized cancer care facilities, such as the Cape Fear Valley Cancer Center, are often located within or near the main hospital complex. Drive times to these facilities mirror those to the main hospital, emphasizing the importance of minimizing travel time for patients undergoing treatment. Delays can be detrimental, and the Lung Cancer Score accounts for this critical factor.

Public transportation in Fayetteville, provided by the Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST), offers an alternative to driving. However, the system's coverage and frequency may pose challenges for individuals with lung cancer. Several FAST bus routes serve the 28301 ZIP code, including routes 1, 2, 4, 7, and 12. These routes connect to key destinations like Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and other medical offices.

The FAST system is ADA-compliant, with buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited. Waiting times and transfer requirements might make public transit a less convenient option for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments. The Lung Cancer Score factors in the limitations of public transit, acknowledging the potential for increased travel time and reduced flexibility.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. The Lung Cancer Score considers the financial implications and the potential for service disruptions when evaluating ride-sharing as a healthcare access solution.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide specialized support. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and other local providers operate in the Fayetteville area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. The Lung Cancer Score recognizes the value of these services, particularly for patients with limited mobility or those requiring assistance during travel. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services can vary, influencing the overall score.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within and around the 28301 ZIP code. While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a primary destination, other medical offices and specialists are scattered throughout the area. The distance to these facilities, coupled with traffic conditions, influences the overall score.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, is another crucial factor. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the proximity of these specialists to the 28301 ZIP code, recognizing the importance of timely access to specialized care for lung cancer patients.

The presence of support services, such as support groups and counseling, also contributes to the Lung Cancer Score. Access to these resources can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with lung cancer and their families. The score considers the availability and accessibility of these essential support systems.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score incorporates an assessment of the overall healthcare infrastructure in Fayetteville. This includes the availability of emergency services, the quality of medical care, and the responsiveness of the healthcare system. These factors, combined with transportation options, contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for the 28301 ZIP code reflects a complex interplay of factors. While drive times to major healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of specialized medical transportation services influence the overall score. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of transportation options for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer moving to Fayetteville. Further research into specific locations within the ZIP code and the individual needs of patients can refine this assessment, ensuring optimal healthcare access. The 28301 ZIP code, with its dependence on transportation, requires careful consideration of healthcare access.