28343, Gibson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28343, Gibson, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.04 percent of residents in 28343 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gibson, NC (ZIP Code 28343)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in Gibson, North Carolina, a small town nestled in the heart of Scotland County. For residents of ZIP code 28343, the pursuit of health, particularly when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, is a journey that extends beyond the doctor's office. It's a complex equation, a "Lung Cancer Score," influenced by the availability and accessibility of transportation, the cornerstone of healthcare access. This score reflects the challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely and effective medical care, a crucial factor for anyone moving to Gibson.

The primary arteries of transportation for Gibson residents are US Highway 74 and NC Highway 79. These roadways, while offering a semblance of connectivity, present their own set of hurdles. The drive to larger medical centers, where specialized lung cancer treatments are often located, can be time-consuming. The closest comprehensive cancer center, offering a full suite of services, including radiation therapy and advanced surgical options, is likely in either Fayetteville or Pinehurst.

Driving times to these critical healthcare hubs are significant. A trip to Fayetteville, the county seat and home to Cape Fear Valley Health System, could take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within the city. Pinehurst, renowned for its healthcare facilities, including FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, is roughly an hour and fifteen minutes away. These drive times, seemingly manageable in isolation, become a burden when compounded by the fatigue and stress associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.

Public transportation options in Scotland County are limited. The local transit system, if it exists, might operate on a demand-response basis, requiring advance booking and potentially offering limited service hours. Information on the specific routes and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of such a system is crucial for evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score." Details like bus route numbers, stop locations, and the availability of wheelchair lifts or ramps are essential for patients with mobility challenges. The absence of robust public transit significantly hinders healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the financial means for alternative transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their reliability and cost-effectiveness in a rural setting like Gibson are questionable. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening, can be a concern. The financial burden of frequent ride-share trips can quickly become unsustainable for patients undergoing cancer treatment, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) often provide door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility issues and navigating the complexities of healthcare access. Researching the availability of NEMT providers in the 28343 ZIP code is critical. This includes identifying the specific companies serving the area, their service areas, and their pricing structures.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the patient's individual circumstances. Factors such as age, physical condition, financial resources, and social support network all play a role in determining the ease with which a patient can access healthcare. A senior citizen with limited mobility and no access to a personal vehicle faces a significantly greater challenge than a younger individual with a supportive family and reliable transportation.

For individuals contemplating moving to Gibson, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. It's not just about the beauty of the landscape or the affordability of housing; it's about the practicalities of daily life, including the ability to access vital medical care. Researching the availability of transportation options before relocating is essential. This includes contacting the local health department, inquiring about public transit options, and investigating the presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. It highlights the need for proactive measures to improve transportation options for patients. This could include advocating for expanded public transit services, subsidizing ride-sharing programs for medical appointments, or partnering with medical transport providers to offer affordable transportation solutions.

Furthermore, the score underscores the importance of community support. Volunteers who can provide transportation, family members who can offer rides, and social service organizations that can assist with transportation costs are invaluable resources for patients battling lung cancer. A strong social safety net can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and ease the burden on patients.

The absence of readily available, affordable, and reliable transportation options casts a long shadow over the healthcare access landscape in Gibson. The drive times to medical centers, the limitations of public transit, and the uncertainties of ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal "Lung Cancer Score."

However, the situation is not without hope. The community has the power to improve the score. By advocating for better transportation infrastructure, supporting local healthcare initiatives, and fostering a culture of compassion and support, Gibson can create a more accessible and supportive environment for those facing the challenges of lung cancer.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28343 is a call to action. It's a reminder that healthcare access is not just about having medical facilities nearby; it's about ensuring that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can reach those facilities when they need them most. For those considering moving to Gibson, understanding this score is a crucial step in making an informed decision about their healthcare future. The journey to health in Gibson requires more than just a destination; it requires a reliable and accessible mode of transportation.