28382, Roseboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28382, Roseboro, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.58 percent of residents in 28382 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 Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.48 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28382 (Roseboro, North Carolina)**

The air in Roseboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28382), carries the scent of pine and the promise of rural tranquility. Yet, for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can quickly morph into a landscape of logistical challenges. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of healthcare, specifically focusing on transportation options, a critical factor in treatment and survival. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare access for those navigating a difficult journey.

The primary concern for a lung cancer patient is timely access to specialized care. This includes oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation therapists, and diagnostic imaging services. In Roseboro, the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Fayetteville, approximately 30 miles away, or in Wilmington, roughly 90 miles distant. The drive to Fayetteville, the more immediate destination, usually involves navigating the rural roads and highways.

The most direct route to Fayetteville is via US-401 South. This two-lane highway offers a relatively straightforward passage, but traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or due to accidents. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Another option is to take NC-24 East, which eventually merges onto I-95 South. This route is slightly longer, often adding an additional 10-15 minutes, but provides a more controlled highway experience.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation presents a significant hurdle. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) does not directly serve Roseboro. Residents would need to rely on a combination of local services, potentially including a ride to a FAST route. This necessitates a significant time commitment and presents challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that can cause fatigue and weakness. The lack of direct public transit underscores the transportation access limitations.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the effectiveness of these features is often dependent on the frequency of service and the availability of support staff. In rural areas, the limited reach of public transit can render these features less impactful, leaving individuals with disabilities facing greater challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability in Roseboro is variable. While they may be present, the cost can be prohibitive for frequent trips, and the wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on ride-sharing also introduces an element of uncertainty, as availability is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as MedRide or CareRide, provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. Their availability in Roseboro is not guaranteed, and booking in advance is essential.

The journey to Wilmington, while offering more comprehensive healthcare options, presents a greater transportation challenge. The primary route is via I-95 South and then onto US-74 East. This drive typically takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. This long commute can exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of cancer treatment, making it a less practical option for many patients.

For individuals considering moving to Roseboro, the Lung Cancer Score should be a critical factor in their decision-making process. The score reflects the transportation challenges faced by lung cancer patients, highlighting the importance of having a reliable means of transportation and access to healthcare access. It emphasizes the need for proactive planning and the potential financial burden associated with accessing care.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28382 is moderate. While Fayetteville offers relatively accessible healthcare, the lack of robust public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles or costly medical transport create significant barriers. The longer commute to Wilmington further complicates the situation.

The score underscores the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access. This could include exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, expanding public transit options, or establishing a local medical transportation program. Such initiatives could significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Roseboro and other rural communities facing the challenges of lung cancer.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a vital tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Roseboro. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of the treatment plan. By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, the community can work towards creating a more supportive environment for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The score emphasizes the need for ongoing assessment and improvement in the realm of healthcare access.