28363, Marston, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.77 percent of residents in 28363 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.99 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marston, NC (ZIP Code 28363)**

The air in Marston, North Carolina, whispers secrets of pine and earth, a tapestry woven with the threads of rural life. But beneath the idyllic surface, a silent adversary looms: lung cancer. For residents of ZIP code 28363, the challenge extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it involves the intricate dance of transportation to healthcare. This Lung Cancer Score delves into the realities of accessing crucial medical services, offering a perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing those battling this formidable disease.

The primary concern for any resident of Marston facing a lung cancer diagnosis is the availability of timely healthcare. This involves not only the presence of specialized medical facilities but also the ease with which patients can reach them. The journey to healthcare in this region is heavily reliant on personal vehicles, with public transit options offering limited assistance.

For those in need of immediate care, the closest emergency room is likely located in Rockingham, approximately 15 miles away. The drive, primarily along US-1 North, should typically take around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, this can be a harrowing journey for a patient experiencing symptoms of lung cancer, such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

Specialized lung cancer treatment, including oncologists, radiation therapy, and surgery, is not readily available within Marston itself. Patients will need to travel to larger medical centers, such as FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, or to facilities in Fayetteville. The drive to Pinehurst, via US-1 North and NC-211 West, is roughly 40 miles and can take up to an hour, particularly during peak traffic times. Fayetteville, approximately 50 miles away, involves a journey primarily on US-1 North and US-401 North, potentially taking over an hour.

The reliance on personal vehicles presents a significant hurdle for many. Individuals who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a car face considerable challenges. This is where alternative transportation options become critical.

Public transit in the area is limited. The Richmond County Transit System provides some services, but their routes are not designed to specifically cater to medical appointments. There are no direct routes from Marston to Pinehurst or Fayetteville. Service is infrequent, and the schedules may not align with the demanding schedules of cancer treatment. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is limited, potentially creating barriers for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but their presence in Marston is inconsistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, the demand, and the driver pool. The cost of these services, especially for long distances to medical centers, can quickly become a financial burden for patients already facing significant medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, such as Med-Trans or similar providers, offer a more specialized solution. These companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate patients with various needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent situations.

The geographical isolation of Marston, coupled with the limited transportation infrastructure, creates a complex equation for healthcare access. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer must navigate this intricate system, often while battling the physical and emotional toll of the disease.

The prospect of moving to Marston, NC, should be carefully considered by anyone with a history of lung cancer or at high risk. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the challenges of healthcare access cannot be overlooked. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of transportation options, assess their financial resources to cover transportation costs, and understand the potential delays in accessing specialized medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score for Marston, NC, is not simply a numerical value. It is a reflection of the real-world struggles faced by individuals battling this disease. It highlights the need for improved transportation options, increased public awareness, and a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies.

The journey to healthcare in Marston requires resilience, resourcefulness, and a strong support system. The challenges are real, but with proactive planning, informed decision-making, and a commitment to improving transportation access, the residents of Marston can navigate the complex landscape of lung cancer care with greater ease and hope. The fight against lung cancer demands not only medical expertise but also a commitment to ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to access the care they need, regardless of their location or circumstances.