28340, Fairmont, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.05 percent of residents in 28340 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.21 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely access to quality healthcare is paramount in its diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Fairmont, North Carolina (ZIP code 28340), delves into the intricacies of transportation options, crucial for residents seeking medical attention. We will explore the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those navigating this complex journey.

Fairmont, a town nestled in Robeson County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit infrastructure, demands a comprehensive understanding of available options. This is particularly vital for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, where every minute can be critical. The Lung Cancer Score considers various factors, from the proximity of medical facilities to the efficiency of available transportation modes.

The primary mode of transportation in Fairmont is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. This underscores the importance of understanding drive times to key healthcare providers. The nearest major healthcare hub is Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, approximately 15 miles away. Driving along I-95 South, the commute typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is a relatively manageable timeframe, especially in emergencies.

However, the journey to more specialized care can be significantly longer. For instance, the drive to Duke University Hospital in Durham, a renowned cancer center, is a considerable undertaking, covering roughly 140 miles. This translates to a drive time of approximately two and a half to three hours, primarily via I-95 North and US-15-501 North. Similarly, the drive to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, another prominent cancer treatment facility, involves a similar distance and travel time, using I-95 North and US-1 North.

These longer commutes necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays. Road closures, accidents, and peak traffic hours can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. This highlights the importance of having backup transportation plans and understanding the local traffic patterns.

Public transportation options in Fairmont are limited. Robeson County Area Transit System (RCATS) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent. The availability of routes and ADA accessibility are key factors in the Lung Cancer Score. While RCATS offers some routes, they may not adequately cover all areas within ZIP code 28340, and the frequency of service may be insufficient for regular medical appointments.

Individuals with mobility limitations, who may require wheelchair accessibility, must carefully verify the ADA compliance of any public transit options. The lack of robust public transit infrastructure underscores the reliance on private vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fairmont area, but their reliability and availability can vary. The rural nature of the region may result in longer wait times and higher fares compared to more urban areas. This is particularly problematic for individuals with limited financial resources or those residing in remote locations.

The availability of ride-sharing services needs to be assessed in terms of their 24/7 operation. A patient needing an emergency ride to the hospital in the middle of the night might be stranded. The Lung Cancer Score needs to address this.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. Several companies operate in the region, providing services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance.

These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those requiring wheelchair accessibility, or patients needing medical support during transport. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited, especially during peak hours or in remote areas. It is important to investigate the insurance coverage for medical transport.

The Lung Cancer Score must consider the availability and cost of these services, as well as the level of medical assistance provided. The availability of medical transport services, coupled with the proximity to healthcare facilities, significantly impacts the overall healthcare access for residents of Fairmont.

For individuals considering moving to Fairmont, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The availability of healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer treatment, should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the proximity of medical facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with healthcare access.

The location of a new residence within ZIP code 28340 can also influence healthcare access. Residents closer to major highways, such as I-95, may benefit from shorter drive times to medical facilities. However, the availability of local services, such as pharmacies and primary care physicians, should also be considered.

The Lung Cancer Score for Fairmont, NC, highlights the crucial interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While the town offers proximity to some healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport services necessitate careful planning and consideration.

For individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the ability to navigate this complex transportation landscape can significantly impact their access to timely and effective care. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a vital tool for understanding these challenges and advocating for improved healthcare access within the community.

The journey to healthcare in Fairmont, NC, requires a comprehensive understanding of available transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach, considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing challenges, and the vital role of medical transport services. This understanding is critical for residents and prospective residents alike, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access the care they need.