28398, Warsaw, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.91 percent of residents in 28398 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398)

The journey to healthcare is a critical factor in overall well-being, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare services for residents of Warsaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28398), considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. Understanding these complexities is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for those considering moving to Warsaw and seeking comprehensive healthcare access.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a formal medical metric but a comprehensive assessment of the practicalities of accessing diagnostic, treatment, and supportive care within a reasonable timeframe and with minimal logistical hurdles. It considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transport services. The score aims to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for individuals in ZIP Code 28398.

Warsaw, a town in Duplin County, North Carolina, is a predominantly rural area. This geographical reality significantly influences healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. The major roadways serving Warsaw are US-117 and NC-24. US-117 provides north-south access, while NC-24 facilitates east-west travel. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be impacted by agricultural vehicles, especially during harvest seasons.

Drive times to specialized lung cancer care facilities are a primary concern. The closest major medical center with comprehensive oncology services is Vidant Duplin Hospital, located in Kenansville, approximately 10 miles from Warsaw. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes via NC-24. While convenient, Vidant Duplin Hospital might not offer all the specialized services required for advanced lung cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures.

For more specialized care, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals in Wilmington or Greenville. New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, approximately 60 miles from Warsaw, is a significant healthcare provider with a comprehensive cancer center. The drive via NC-24 East and I-40 East takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, approximately 70 miles away, offers advanced cancer treatment options. The route involves US-117 North and US-264 East, with a drive time of roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes.

These longer drive times highlight a critical challenge: the potential for increased fatigue and stress for patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Frequent trips for appointments can significantly impact quality of life and may create barriers to consistent care. The availability of reliable and comfortable transportation becomes paramount in such circumstances.

Public transportation options in Warsaw are limited. Duplin County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, those unable to drive due to medical conditions, or those who cannot afford the costs associated with car ownership and maintenance. This is a significant consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Warsaw and relying on public transportation for healthcare access.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for frequent medical appointments. Patients may need to plan and budget carefully for these transportation expenses.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with transportation. Several companies operate in the region, including Firstat Nursing Services and MedStar Ambulance Service. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can be a valuable resource for patients with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The availability of medical transport is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. It provides a lifeline for patients who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options. However, the financial implications and the need for pre-planning are essential considerations.

The challenges of transportation extend beyond simply getting to appointments. The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, can also be impacted by transportation limitations. Patients may find it difficult to attend these crucial resources if they lack reliable transportation. This isolation can negatively impact their emotional and psychological well-being.

The Lung Cancer Score for Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398) is influenced by the interplay of factors. While the proximity to Vidant Duplin Hospital offers some convenience, the need for specialized care often necessitates longer drives to Wilmington or Greenville. The limited public transportation options, the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transport services create significant transportation barriers.

For individuals considering moving to Warsaw, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and financial resources is critical. Careful consideration should be given to the potential challenges of accessing specialized lung cancer care and the associated costs. Planning for transportation, whether through personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport, is an essential aspect of managing lung cancer in this rural setting.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, reflects a landscape where access to healthcare is significantly shaped by transportation realities. While the community offers essential healthcare services, the journey to specialized care can be long and challenging. The ability to navigate these transportation hurdles is crucial for ensuring timely and effective treatment and improving the overall quality of life for individuals facing the complexities of lung cancer. The score highlights the need for proactive planning and the potential importance of seeking support from local resources to overcome transportation barriers and ensure access to the care needed.