28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.95 percent of residents in 28392 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 12.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28392

Understanding the complexities of healthcare access is paramount, especially when facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. This write-up focuses on transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP Code 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on available options for accessing vital healthcare services. This analysis is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Tar Heel, highlighting the realities of transportation and its impact on healthcare outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. It aims to paint a realistic picture of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on individuals needing regular treatments, appointments, and support. The goal is to empower informed decisions, ensuring patients can effectively navigate the system and prioritize their well-being.

**The Geography of Healthcare Access**

ZIP Code 28392, a predominantly rural area, presents unique transportation challenges. The nearest major healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer treatment are located in Fayetteville, approximately 30 miles away, or in larger cities like Raleigh, about 90 miles distant. This distance significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those with personal vehicles, drive times are a primary concern. The most direct route to Fayetteville typically involves traveling on NC-87 North, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. The drive usually takes around 45 minutes, but traffic can easily extend this to an hour or more.

Reaching Raleigh, the state capital, demands a longer journey. The most common route involves taking NC-87 North to US-401 North, then merging onto I-95 North. This interstate provides a faster, though often more congested, route. Expect a travel time of at least an hour and a half, potentially exceeding two hours during rush hour or adverse weather conditions. This extended travel time significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options are limited in 28392. Bladen County, where Tar Heel is located, has a modest public transit system, but it primarily caters to local needs. There are no direct bus routes connecting Tar Heel to Fayetteville or Raleigh.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This necessitates reliance on alternative transportation, which can be more expensive and less reliable. It is imperative to investigate if the local transit system offers door-to-door service or ADA-accessible vehicles for those with mobility issues.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. In rural areas, wait times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can be a financial burden. The Lung Cancer Score reflects this uncertainty, especially for patients needing immediate or scheduled transportation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, eligibility requirements, booking procedures, and potential delays should be carefully considered. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges the importance of these services while recognizing their limitations.

**Medical Transportation Providers in the Area**

* **LogistiCare:** A well-known provider of NEMT services, often contracted by Medicaid and other insurance plans.
* **ModivCare:** Another major player in the NEMT market, offering similar services and coverage.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** While primarily for emergencies, some local ambulance services may offer non-emergency transport under specific circumstances.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for 28392 is negatively affected by the limited transportation options. The long drive times to specialized healthcare facilities, the scarcity of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for patients. This situation underscores the need for careful planning and proactive arrangements.

**Considerations for Moving to Tar Heel**

For individuals considering moving to Tar Heel, the transportation landscape should be a critical factor in their decision-making process. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of assessing healthcare access before relocating. Potential residents should investigate their insurance coverage, explore available transportation options, and familiarize themselves with local resources.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Several strategies could improve the Lung Cancer Score for 28392 residents.

* **Advocating for improved public transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of public transportation, including routes connecting Tar Heel to Fayetteville and Raleigh, would significantly enhance healthcare access.
* **Expanding ride-sharing services:** Incentivizing ride-sharing companies to operate more consistently in the area could improve accessibility.
* **Supporting medical transport services:** Ensuring adequate funding and resources for medical transport services would guarantee reliable transportation for patients.
* **Telemedicine initiatives:** Encouraging the use of telemedicine for follow-up appointments and consultations could reduce the need for travel.
* **Community outreach:** Raising awareness about available transportation options and support services is crucial.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28392 reflects the reality of healthcare access in a rural environment. While challenges exist, understanding these complexities is the first step toward finding solutions. By carefully considering the transportation landscape, exploring available resources, and advocating for improvements, residents can navigate the journey of lung cancer treatment with greater confidence and peace of mind. For those considering moving to Tar Heel, a thorough assessment of transportation and healthcare access is essential for ensuring a successful transition and prioritizing their well-being.