28328, Clinton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28328, Clinton, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.98 percent of residents in 28328 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.19 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clinton, NC (ZIP Code 28328)**

The air in Clinton, North Carolina, carries the scent of pine and possibility. For those considering a move, particularly those seeking or requiring specialized healthcare, understanding the nuances of transportation and healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the specifics of navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28328, focusing on lung cancer care, and providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the availability and accessibility of vital services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade, but rather a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities in accessing timely and appropriate care. It considers factors like drive times, public transportation options, and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This information is critical for individuals considering moving to Clinton, or for residents already there who may be facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary means of transportation in and around Clinton is the personal vehicle. The availability of a car, and the ability to drive it, significantly impacts healthcare access. For residents of 28328, the most direct route to specialized lung cancer care often involves travel to Fayetteville, approximately 45 miles away.

The journey to Fayetteville typically begins on US-421, a major thoroughfare connecting Clinton to the larger city. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. Depending on the specific destination within Fayetteville, such as Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, the drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes.

Another option is to travel to Raleigh, the state capital, which offers a wider array of specialized medical services, including comprehensive cancer centers. The drive to Raleigh, primarily via I-40 East, is significantly longer, typically taking around two hours. This extended travel time can be a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms.

Understanding these drive times is crucial. For individuals with lung cancer, the need for frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care is common. The ability to navigate these distances comfortably and reliably is a key factor in the overall quality of life and treatment outcomes.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Clinton and the surrounding areas are limited. Sampson County Area Transit (SCAT) provides a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is designed to serve the general public, including individuals with disabilities.

SCAT operates within Sampson County, and does not provide direct transportation to Fayetteville or Raleigh. This means that for those relying on public transit, accessing specialized lung cancer care outside of Clinton presents a significant challenge.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates that public transportation services are accessible to individuals with disabilities. SCAT vehicles are equipped with features like wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited scope of the service and the need for advance scheduling can create barriers to timely healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Clinton, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. While these services can provide a convenient option for local transportation, they may not be a reliable solution for long-distance travel to Fayetteville or Raleigh.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide or MedTrans, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, medical transport services can be expensive and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

**Healthcare Access: The Cornerstone of the Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 28328 is influenced by the availability of healthcare access. While Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton provides some basic healthcare services, specialized lung cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, is primarily located in Fayetteville and Raleigh.

The availability of medical specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, within a reasonable distance is critical. Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scans and PET scans, is also essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The ability to navigate the transportation challenges described above directly impacts the patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly affect outcomes.

**Moving to Clinton: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Clinton, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory conditions, a careful assessment of healthcare access is essential. While Clinton offers a pleasant environment and a lower cost of living than many urban areas, the limitations in transportation and healthcare infrastructure must be considered.

The proximity to Fayetteville, with its medical facilities, is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Summary**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 28328 reflects a mixed picture. While the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation network present challenges. The need to travel to Fayetteville or Raleigh for specialized care adds to the complexity.

The score is not a condemnation of the area, but rather a call for careful planning and consideration. Individuals with lung cancer or at high risk should thoroughly research their healthcare options, explore all available transportation alternatives, and develop a plan for accessing the care they need. For those who prioritize access to specialized healthcare, a move to a location with more readily available services might be a more suitable option.