28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.96 percent of residents in 28351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Laurel Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28351)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and reliable access to healthcare. For residents of Laurel Hill, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28351), the ability to reach specialists, undergo diagnostic tests, and receive life-saving treatments is inextricably linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up, a Lung Cancer Score assessment, examines the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access within and from this rural community. It is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Laurel Hill.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals battling lung cancer. This information is vital for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike. It is a crucial element of healthcare access, particularly for those with limited mobility or facing the debilitating effects of this disease.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Laurel Hill, nestled in Scotland County, is a community defined by its rural character. The primary artery for travel is US-401, a north-south thoroughfare that connects the area to larger towns and cities. Access to specialized lung cancer care necessitates travel to facilities beyond the immediate vicinity.

Driving to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes via US-401 South and NC-211 East. This drive time can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours or in the event of an accident. Similarly, the drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, another major healthcare hub, can take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily utilizing US-401 North and I-95 South.

These drive times, while manageable, represent a significant commitment of time and resources. They can be especially challenging for patients experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms associated with lung cancer. The journey itself can exacerbate these symptoms, adding to the burden of the illness.

The condition of the roads, including US-401 and the secondary routes, also plays a crucial role. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting can make driving difficult and potentially dangerous, especially for those with compromised health. Road closures due to construction or weather events can further complicate travel, potentially delaying access to critical care.

**Public Transit Constraints:**

Public transportation options in Laurel Hill are extremely limited. Scotland County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or have limited financial resources.

The absence of reliable public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. This can create a cycle of dependency, limiting independence and potentially impacting quality of life. The absence of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those moving to Laurel Hill.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas like Laurel Hill. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services unaffordable for some patients. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled appointments or emergency situations is therefore questionable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their needs. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible in all situations.

Companies such as FirstHealth and Cape Fear Valley Health System may offer their own transportation services or partner with medical transport providers to facilitate patient access to care. However, the scope and availability of these services may be limited.

**ADA Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and medical facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the implementation and enforcement of ADA standards can vary. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is a critical consideration for patients with mobility limitations.

Furthermore, the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is paramount. Ensuring that buildings are equipped with ramps, elevators, and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities is essential for providing equitable access to care.

**Lung Cancer Score Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Laurel Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28351) is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options available. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the absence of a robust public transit system, creates significant challenges for individuals seeking healthcare access.

Drive times to major healthcare facilities are moderate, but the lack of alternative transportation options exacerbates the difficulties. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the cost can be prohibitive. While medical transport services offer a specialized solution, their availability and cost may also be barriers.

**Recommendations:**

Improving healthcare access in Laurel Hill requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including the potential for a demand-response system or partnerships with existing transportation providers, is crucial. Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, potentially through subsidies or partnerships, could also help.

Expanding the availability of medical transport services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is essential. Furthermore, strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation providers can facilitate patient access to care.

Community education and outreach programs can help raise awareness of available transportation options and resources. Finally, ensuring that all healthcare facilities are fully compliant with ADA standards is non-negotiable.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Laurel Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28351) reflects the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the challenges in accessing specialized care necessitate proactive measures. Addressing these transportation barriers is essential for ensuring that residents of Laurel Hill have equitable access to the life-saving treatments and support they need. For those considering moving to Laurel Hill, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial for planning their healthcare needs. The commitment to improving transportation options will directly translate into improved health outcomes and a better quality of life for those battling lung cancer.