28367, Norman, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28367, Norman, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.69 percent of residents in 28367 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital with a distance of 15.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28367

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. In the ZIP Code 28367, encompassing the town of Norman, North Carolina, access to timely and effective care is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including the availability of transportation. This Lung Cancer Score examines the transportation landscape, offering a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking lung cancer treatment within and around this community.

The primary determinant of this score is the proximity to specialized medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. In the absence of a dedicated cancer center within the immediate vicinity of 28367, residents rely on transportation to reach facilities in larger towns and cities. This reliance underscores the importance of understanding the transportation options available.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation. Residents typically utilize local roads such as NC-211 and NC-73 to reach larger thoroughfares like US-1 and US-74. These highways provide access to hospitals and cancer centers in Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and even further afield, such as Fayetteville. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination. During peak hours, commuting to Pinehurst, approximately a 30-minute drive under normal conditions, could extend to an hour or more. Similarly, the commute to Fayetteville, which is typically around an hour, can be considerably longer.

Public transportation options are limited in 28367. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The lack of regular bus routes or train services necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability and affordability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. The cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden, particularly for patients already facing the costs associated with cancer treatment. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as wait times and driver availability may vary, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in accessing care.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for patients who require assistance with transportation. Companies like First Medical Transportation and Med-Trans Corporation offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often covered by insurance, but availability can be limited, and scheduling may require advance planning.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability is not guaranteed. Medical transportation services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but the availability of these services can be a limiting factor.

The impact of these transportation challenges extends beyond the simple logistics of getting to appointments. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating transportation can exacerbate the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis. The time spent traveling can also detract from the time available for rest, recovery, and other essential activities.

For individuals considering moving to Norman, North Carolina, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and evaluate the availability of suitable options. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options should all be considered.

The Lung Cancer Score for 28367 reflects the reality that access to healthcare is not merely about the presence of medical facilities. It is about the ability to reach those facilities in a timely, affordable, and reliable manner. The limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a score that highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to essential treatments. This situation can have a significant impact on patient outcomes and quality of life.

Further improvements in transportation infrastructure, such as the expansion of public transit routes or the introduction of demand-response transportation services, could significantly improve healthcare access for residents of 28367. Increased collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations is also essential to address the transportation challenges faced by individuals seeking lung cancer treatment.

The journey to healthcare is a complex one, and the transportation component is a vital piece of the puzzle. By understanding the transportation landscape in 28367, residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to improve healthcare access and ensure that individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis receive the timely and effective care they deserve. This is particularly crucial in a community where healthcare access is intrinsically linked to the ability to navigate the roads and highways that connect residents to specialized medical facilities.