28326, Cameron, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.44 percent of residents in 28326 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Womack Amc (Ft Bragg) with a distance of 13.16 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cameron, NC (ZIP Code 28326)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when battling a disease like lung cancer, is more than just a physical trek. It's a complex equation of time, cost, and accessibility, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes. This write-up delves into the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Cameron, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28326), analyzing the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare access. Understanding this landscape is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Cameron, NC, especially if they have, or are at risk of, lung cancer.

Cameron, a charming town nestled in Moore County, presents a unique set of circumstances. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its relative isolation from major medical centers necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The "Lung Cancer Score" here isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the barriers and facilitators to timely and effective healthcare.

**The Driving Dilemma:**

For most residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities will be personal vehicles. This immediately introduces the variable of drive-time. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Pinehurst and Southern Pines, both approximately 15-25 minutes away, assuming normal traffic conditions. The most direct route to Pinehurst involves traveling along US-15/US-501, a major thoroughfare that can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around the Pinehurst traffic circle.

Southern Pines is accessible via US-1, another primary route. While generally less congested than US-15/US-501, accidents or road construction can significantly impact travel times. For those seeking specialized care or advanced treatments, such as radiation therapy, drive times could extend to facilities in Fayetteville (around an hour via US-401 and I-95) or Raleigh (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via US-1 and US-64), adding considerable stress and fatigue for patients.

The condition of local roads also plays a role. While generally well-maintained, potholes or inadequate signage could pose challenges, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those experiencing treatment-related side effects. The lack of readily available car repair services within Cameron could also complicate matters if a vehicle breakdown occurs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Cameron are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. Moore County Transit offers a demand-response service, but it requires advance booking and operates within specific hours. This service is designed to provide transportation for medical appointments, but its availability and scheduling constraints might not always align with the needs of cancer patients, who often require frequent and sometimes unpredictable visits.

The demand-response service, while attempting to address healthcare access, may not be ideal for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can cause fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating symptoms. The service's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is crucial, ensuring that vehicles are accessible for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited number of vehicles and potential wait times could still present difficulties.

For those seeking transportation to facilities outside of Moore County, the public transit options become even scarcer. Connecting to regional bus services or train lines would likely involve multiple transfers and significantly increased travel times, making it an impractical solution for many cancer patients.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but might be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Availability could be further limited due to the relatively low population density of Cameron. Relying on ride-sharing for frequent appointments could become financially burdensome, as fares can quickly accumulate.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. Availability and scheduling are also critical factors, as patients need to book in advance.

The reliability of these services is paramount. Delays or cancellations could lead to missed appointments, disrupting treatment plans and potentially impacting patient outcomes. The cost of these services could also create a financial burden, especially for patients without adequate insurance coverage.

**Moving to Cameron: A Healthcare Access Consideration:**

For individuals considering moving to Cameron, NC, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be a key factor in their decision-making process. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited healthcare access and transportation options could pose significant challenges, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk of developing lung cancer.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation support is a significant advantage. Investigating the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also crucial.

Furthermore, individuals should research the insurance coverage for transportation services and explore any available financial assistance programs. The ability to navigate the healthcare system and secure timely access to care is essential for managing lung cancer effectively.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Accessibility:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Cameron, NC, reveals a complex picture. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access present challenges for residents, particularly those affected by lung cancer. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach.

Investing in improved public transportation, including expanding the reach and frequency of Moore County Transit, is crucial. Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and ensuring the reliability of medical transport providers are also essential.

Raising awareness about available resources, such as financial assistance programs and patient support services, can help mitigate the financial burden and emotional stress associated with healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Cameron, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and transportation options is paramount. The journey to healthcare should not be a barrier to effective treatment. By understanding the landscape of transportation and healthcare access, residents of Cameron, NC, can better navigate the challenges and improve their chances of a positive outcome. The community's commitment to improving healthcare access will be a vital factor in creating a healthier and more supportive environment for all.