28371, Parkton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.94 percent of residents in 28371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Parkton, NC (ZIP Code 28371)**

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely diagnosis and treatment are paramount. Access to specialized healthcare, particularly for oncology, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Parkton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28371), evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer care. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating this complex disease. The ultimate goal is to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital healthcare services.

Parkton, a small town nestled in Robeson County, presents unique transportation challenges. Rural settings often mean longer travel distances to specialized medical facilities. This geographic reality significantly impacts the 'Lung Cancer Score,' as the journey to care can become a major hurdle for patients already facing physical and emotional strain. The score will consider the time and effort required to reach diagnostic and treatment centers, factoring in the available transportation options and their respective limitations.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Parkton is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. Personal vehicles offer the most direct route to medical facilities. The closest major hospitals with oncology departments are located in Fayetteville, approximately 30 miles away. Driving along **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, a major north-south artery, is the fastest route. Traffic conditions, however, can significantly impact travel times, particularly during peak hours or in the event of accidents. The drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a prominent regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 45 minutes under optimal conditions.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing **US Highway 301** or local roads like **NC Highway 20**, offer options but often add travel time. These roads, while potentially less congested than I-95, may be poorly maintained in certain areas, potentially impacting the comfort and safety of patients. The condition of the roads and the availability of reliable transportation become crucial considerations when assessing the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Public transportation options in Parkton and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Robeson County Area Transit System (RCATS). However, RCATS operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments. Furthermore, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other ADA-compliant features is essential for patients with mobility limitations. Information on specific route numbers and ADA features is difficult to ascertain without contacting RCATS directly, adding a layer of complexity to the accessibility assessment.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fayetteville area, but their presence in Parkton itself is less certain. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove unreliable and expensive, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing, compared to the affordability of personal vehicles or the potential for public transit, must be factored into the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another option. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be costly and may require prior authorization or insurance coverage. The availability of medical transportation providers in the Parkton area and the extent of insurance coverage for these services are crucial factors in determining the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

The 'Lung Cancer Score' must also consider the specific healthcare facilities available. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville offers comprehensive oncology services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support. Other options include smaller clinics and physician practices in the area, which may offer limited services or require referrals to larger facilities. The quality of care, the availability of specialists, and the waiting times for appointments are all important factors in evaluating the overall healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Parkton, the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access are vital considerations. The 'Lung Cancer Score' provides a framework for evaluating the practicality of residing in this area, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing timely and effective medical care.

The impact of socioeconomic factors cannot be overlooked. Individuals with limited financial resources may face greater challenges in accessing transportation and healthcare. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can be prohibitive. The 'Lung Cancer Score' must consider the affordability of transportation options and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients in need.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. The stress of navigating transportation challenges can exacerbate this burden. The 'Lung Cancer Score' should reflect the overall patient experience, considering not only the physical accessibility of healthcare but also the emotional support available. This includes the availability of support groups, counseling services, and patient navigation programs.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Parkton, NC (ZIP code 28371) will be a composite measure, weighing the factors described above. It will reflect the accessibility of lung cancer care, taking into account drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing uncertainties, the availability of medical transportation, the quality of local healthcare facilities, socioeconomic considerations, and the emotional support available.

The final 'Lung Cancer Score' will be a numerical value, with a higher score indicating better access to care. This score will provide a valuable tool for individuals making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and for policymakers seeking to improve healthcare access in rural communities. The overall assessment will reveal the need for improved transportation options, increased public transit services, and enhanced support for patients battling lung cancer in Parkton, NC. The journey to healthcare should not be another battle.