28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.94 percent of residents in 28365 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 14.60 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28365

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in ZIP Code 28365, the heart of Mount Olive, North Carolina. Nestled amidst rolling farmland and the gentle currents of the Northeast Cape Fear River, this community offers a slower pace of life, a welcoming spirit, and a growing sense of opportunity. However, for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serene landscape can quickly transform into a complex web of healthcare access challenges, particularly concerning transportation. This write-up analyzes the crucial element of transportation and its impact on a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Mount Olive, focusing on the practical realities of getting to and from vital medical appointments.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers not just the availability of medical facilities, but also the ease with which patients can reach them. This includes factors like drive times, the reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the support offered by medical transportation providers. The score reflects the overall accessibility of healthcare, a critical determinant in the timely diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, the survival of lung cancer patients. For someone considering moving to Mount Olive, this score offers a vital perspective on the practicalities of managing their health.

The primary healthcare hub for Mount Olive residents is the UNC Health Wayne Hospital in Goldsboro, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route is via US-117 South, a well-maintained highway that offers a relatively smooth commute. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can add a significant amount of time to the journey, potentially impacting a patient's ability to arrive on time for appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments. The drive time, under normal conditions, is around 20-25 minutes. This is a manageable distance for those with personal vehicles.

Alternatively, residents can utilize NC-55 East, which offers a slightly longer, more winding route to Goldsboro. While it may be less prone to congestion than US-117, it lacks the convenience of a divided highway. The choice of route, therefore, often depends on individual preferences and real-time traffic conditions. For those without personal vehicles, the reliance on alternative transportation options becomes paramount.

Public transportation in Mount Olive is limited. The Wayne County Transit Authority operates a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service, however, does not have fixed routes and does not have dedicated routes to the UNC Health Wayne Hospital. ADA accessibility is available, but it requires advance notice and scheduling. This limitation presents a significant hurdle for lung cancer patients, who often require frequent and unpredictable trips for treatment and follow-up care. The reliability of this service can be a concern, especially during inclement weather or periods of high demand.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mount Olive, though their presence is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, the demand, and the driver pool. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for patients with limited financial resources. The unpredictability of ride-sharing, coupled with the potential for cancellations or delays, can add considerable stress to an already challenging situation.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like FirstMed and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped with wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. These services can be a valuable lifeline for individuals who are unable to drive or rely on public transit. However, these services come with a cost, and the availability of providers can vary. Booking in advance is crucial, and the coordination with medical appointments requires careful planning.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28365, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to UNC Health Wayne Hospital offers a degree of healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles or the limitations of alternative transportation options create significant challenges. The drive time, though manageable, can be affected by traffic. The limited public transit options, coupled with the variability of ride-sharing services, increase the burden on patients.

For those considering moving to Mount Olive, the Lung Cancer Score should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Individuals with a lung cancer diagnosis or a history of lung cancer should carefully assess their transportation needs and the available resources. They should investigate the cost and reliability of medical transportation services, explore the possibility of support from family and friends, and consider the potential impact of transportation challenges on their overall well-being.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This includes advocating for increased public transportation services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, and supporting the expansion of medical transportation providers. Educational programs that inform residents about available resources and support services are also crucial.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28365, while not inherently low, is not without its challenges. The availability of healthcare is balanced by the limitations of transportation. The journey to and from medical appointments can be a significant hurdle for lung cancer patients. By understanding these challenges and proactively seeking solutions, the community of Mount Olive can work towards improving healthcare access and supporting the well-being of its residents. The ability to navigate this transportation landscape is a critical component of the overall healthcare experience, impacting the quality of life and the potential for successful treatment outcomes.