28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 28357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 9.60 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357)

Moving to a new community, especially one as rural as Lumber Bridge, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28357), requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This assessment focuses on transportation options for lung cancer patients, a critical factor in their treatment and overall well-being. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

Lumber Bridge, nestled in Robeson County, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in larger cities, demanding reliance on various transportation modes. This write-up assesses these modes, offering insights for residents and prospective newcomers.

The primary concern is the availability of timely and reliable transportation for frequent medical appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. Delays or difficulties in reaching healthcare facilities can significantly impact treatment outcomes and quality of life.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The most common mode of transportation for residents of Lumber Bridge is personal vehicles. The drive to major healthcare facilities, however, can be considerable. The closest major hospitals offering oncology services are in Fayetteville and Lumberton.

Driving to Fayetteville, home to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, involves traveling along NC-71. The drive, depending on traffic, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to accidents.

Alternatively, residents may opt for Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton. The drive is shorter, typically 15 to 20 minutes, utilizing NC-41 and NC-20. This option offers a more immediate healthcare access point, but the scope of oncology services may be less extensive compared to Fayetteville.

Further afield, larger facilities like Duke Cancer Institute in Durham or UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill offer specialized treatments. These trips, however, are significantly longer, requiring travel times of at least two to three hours, primarily via I-95 and US-1. These extended drives pose a considerable burden on patients and their caregivers.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact drive times. Heavy rain or occasional snow can make travel more hazardous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to vital medical care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Lumber Bridge are extremely limited. Robeson County operates a small transit system, but it primarily serves the county seat of Lumberton and surrounding areas. Service to Fayetteville, the location of the largest hospital, is not readily available.

The existing routes offer limited service, and schedules may not align with the often-demanding schedules of cancer treatments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While the county transit system strives to provide such accommodations, their availability and frequency of service can be challenging.

The lack of robust public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the means to secure alternative transportation. This is particularly true for elderly individuals, those with low incomes, or those who are unable to drive.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lumber Bridge, but their reliability and affordability can be variable. Availability depends on driver density, which is lower in rural areas compared to urban centers. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can also make these services expensive.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, often providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. Several companies operate in the region, including Firstat Nursing Services, and Med-Trans Corporation.

However, medical transport services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden for patients, potentially hindering their ability to access necessary care.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lumber Bridge reflects the challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The score considers the accessibility of cancer care facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the financial burden associated with accessing care.

For patients in Lumber Bridge, the reliance on personal vehicles is high. The limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-share and medical transport services create barriers to care.

**Moving to Lumber Bridge: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Lumber Bridge, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other serious medical conditions, careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is crucial.

The proximity to Fayetteville and Lumberton offers some advantage, but the longer drive times to specialized cancer centers should be factored in. The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-share services, or medical transport.

Before relocating, prospective residents should research the availability of local medical transport services, assess the financial implications of transportation costs, and consider the potential impact of travel time on treatment schedules.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring timely and reliable transportation is essential for lung cancer patients in Lumber Bridge. The challenges posed by limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the cost of alternative transportation options highlight the need for innovative solutions.

The local community, healthcare providers, and policymakers must collaborate to address these challenges. This may involve expanding public transit options, promoting ride-share programs, and exploring financial assistance programs to help patients afford transportation costs.

By addressing these issues, Lumber Bridge can create a more supportive environment for lung cancer patients, enabling them to access the care they need and improve their quality of life. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for assessing and improving healthcare access in this rural community, ensuring that residents have the opportunity to thrive.