28391, Stedman, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 28391 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 13.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stedman, NC (ZIP Code 28391)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Stedman, North Carolina, a small town nestled in the heart of Cumberland County. For residents of ZIP code 28391, the ease with which they can access vital healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, is a critical factor in their quality of life. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options from Stedman, considering various modes of transportation and their associated challenges. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" to guide informed decisions for those moving to Stedman or seeking care in the area.

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the availability of specialists and treatment centers. In the context of lung cancer, this translates to access to oncologists, radiation therapy facilities, and surgical options. Stedman itself is a close-knit community, but lacks comprehensive medical facilities. Residents must travel to larger towns and cities to receive specialized care.

The most common route for those driving from Stedman to Fayetteville, the nearest city with significant medical infrastructure, is via US-401 South. This well-maintained highway offers a relatively smooth journey, typically taking around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary healthcare hubs in Fayetteville, such as Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and several private oncology practices, are easily accessible from US-401.

Alternatively, residents can utilize NC-24 West to reach Fayetteville. This route offers a slightly different perspective, passing through rural landscapes before merging onto the bustling streets of the city. The drive time is comparable to US-401, usually hovering around 25-35 minutes. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times on both routes.

For those seeking care further afield, such as in Raleigh or Durham, the journey becomes considerably more complex. Accessing I-95 North from Stedman requires navigating local roads, adding to the overall travel time. A drive to Raleigh, home to renowned medical institutions like Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center, can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route chosen. The same is true for Durham, with similar drive times.

Public transportation options in Stedman and the surrounding areas are limited. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus service within Fayetteville, but its reach to Stedman is minimal. There are no direct bus routes connecting Stedman to Fayetteville. Residents would need to rely on a combination of walking, private transportation, or potentially a ride-sharing service to reach a FAST bus stop.

The FAST system does offer some ADA-accessible buses, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and limited routes pose a significant challenge for those needing regular medical appointments. The reliance on public transit for lung cancer patients, who may experience fatigue and mobility issues, presents a formidable obstacle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville area. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability and cost can be unpredictable, particularly in rural areas like Stedman. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of transportation, placing an additional financial burden on patients.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and other private companies, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they often come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public transit, making them a less accessible option for some.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Stedman, considering these factors, presents a mixed picture. The proximity to Fayetteville offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities via private transportation. However, the lack of robust public transit options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport diminish the overall score. The long distances and potential travel times to major medical centers in Raleigh and Durham further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Stedman, or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of transportation needs is paramount. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare, the potential for traffic delays and the need for a reliable vehicle are important considerations. The lack of readily available public transit options necessitates reliance on private vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services.

The financial implications of transportation costs should also be factored into the equation. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and the potential for ride-sharing or medical transport expenses can add up quickly, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

In conclusion, while Stedman offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on private transportation and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and resource management for those seeking lung cancer treatment. Moving to Stedman requires an understanding of these transportation realities. The healthcare access landscape is a significant consideration for individuals and families making decisions about their healthcare and where they choose to live.