28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.99 percent of residents in 28352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Laurinburg, NC (ZIP Code 28352)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare. For residents of Laurinburg, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28352), the journey to specialized care is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This Lung Cancer Score assesses the accessibility of essential medical services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding these nuances is crucial, especially for those considering moving to Laurinburg or seeking the best possible care.

The primary healthcare hub for lung cancer treatment in the region is Scotland Health Care System, located within Laurinburg. However, the availability of specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy and surgical interventions, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities. This write-up considers these potential destinations, acknowledging that the urgency of treatment often dictates the choice of facility.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For most residents, personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation. The ease of navigating the roadways is paramount, directly impacting the time and stress associated with medical appointments. From the heart of Laurinburg, the journey to Scotland Health Care System is typically a short, convenient drive, utilizing local roads and avenues.

However, accessing more specialized care often requires venturing beyond the immediate vicinity. A common destination for advanced treatments is FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, approximately 45 miles away. This drive primarily involves traveling on US-401 South, a major thoroughfare, and then transitioning to US-15/US-501 North. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is roughly an hour, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this duration.

Another frequently visited destination is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, roughly 50 miles away. The route involves taking US-401 North, which then merges onto I-95 North. The drive time is comparable to Pinehurst, typically around an hour, but again, traffic on I-95 can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour or after accidents.

The condition of the roads, the availability of parking, and the overall driving experience are all factors that contribute to the patient's experience. These factors can impact the stress levels of patients and their families, potentially affecting their ability to focus on their treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Laurinburg and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of bus services is minimal, and routes are often infrequent, making them a less practical option for time-sensitive medical appointments. There is no dedicated public transit system designed specifically for transporting patients to healthcare facilities.

The lack of robust public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including elderly residents, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals. These individuals may face significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially delaying or preventing them from receiving timely and appropriate treatment.

The absence of features like wheelchair accessibility and accessible routes further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. This underscores the need for improved public transportation infrastructure to ensure that all residents have equal access to healthcare.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Laurinburg, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, especially those requiring frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and other needs. Companies like First Medical Transportation and Liberty Medical Transportation often operate in the region. However, the availability of these services can vary, and pre-booking is usually required. The cost of medical transportation is often covered by insurance, but patients should verify coverage details.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access: A Critical Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28352 reflects the interplay of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. While Scotland Health Care System provides local care, the need for specialized treatments often necessitates travel to facilities further afield. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers for certain populations.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services helps bridge the gap, but their cost and availability remain factors to consider. For individuals considering moving to Laurinburg, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential. Careful planning and consideration of available resources are crucial for ensuring timely and effective access to lung cancer care.

The overall score reflects the need for continued investment in transportation infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare access initiatives. This includes exploring opportunities to enhance public transportation, promote ride-sharing programs, and ensure the availability of affordable medical transportation services.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Accessibility**

The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of accessible transportation in the fight against lung cancer. While Laurinburg offers local healthcare options, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create potential challenges for some residents.

By understanding the available transportation options, the potential barriers to healthcare access, and the resources available to mitigate these challenges, residents of Laurinburg can proactively plan for their healthcare needs. This knowledge is especially important for those considering moving to Laurinburg and seeking the best possible care. Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial for improving healthcare outcomes and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective treatment. This commitment to improved transportation and healthcare access will ultimately enhance the quality of life for all residents in the community.