28403, Wilmington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.89 percent of residents in 28403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.52 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28403)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized care. For residents of Wilmington, North Carolina (ZIP code 28403), the quality of life, and indeed, the potential for positive health outcomes, is inextricably linked to the ease with which they can traverse the city's transportation network to reach vital medical facilities. This 'Lung Cancer Score' aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within this area, considering the realities of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to assist individuals considering moving to Wilmington or already residing here.

The primary concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is the timely arrival at appointments. Treatment often involves frequent visits for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up consultations. Delays can compromise the effectiveness of treatment and significantly impact patient well-being. Therefore, understanding the transportation landscape becomes paramount.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the major arteries within 28403 are crucial. Navigating the city's roads, like South College Road and Carolina Beach Road, requires an understanding of traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. The ease with which one can access major thoroughfares like US-17, US-74, and I-140, leading to major healthcare providers, is critical. The drive time to New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the primary hospital in Wilmington, from various points within 28403, should be a key consideration.

Consider a hypothetical scenario: a resident living near the intersection of South College Road and Shipyard Boulevard. During rush hour, a drive to NHRMC, located off 17th Street, could easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, even though the physical distance is relatively short. Conversely, a resident closer to I-140 might find a more direct route, potentially reducing travel time. These subtle differences highlight the importance of considering the specific location within the ZIP code.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although its effectiveness in this context depends on several factors. Wave Transit, Wilmington's public transit system, operates several routes that serve the 28403 area. Route 101, for instance, travels along South College Road, offering a potential connection to NHRMC. However, the frequency of buses, the duration of the journey, and the availability of ADA-accessible features are vital considerations.

A patient with mobility limitations may find the reliance on public transit challenging. The need for accessible buses, the potential for long wait times, and the necessity of transfers can add significant stress and time to the journey. The "Lung Cancer Score" must therefore weigh these factors, assessing the availability of ADA-compliant buses on each route and the overall accessibility of the transit system.

Beyond public transit, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide on-demand transportation options. These services offer a degree of flexibility and convenience, especially for those unable to drive or needing immediate transport. The availability of these services within 28403, along with their average wait times and costs, is essential to factor in.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, also play a role. Companies like First Medical Transport or MedStar Transportation offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services often come at a higher cost, they can be invaluable for patients with significant mobility challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" should evaluate the availability of these services, their coverage area, and their pricing structure.

The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas within 28403 is another key factor. The location of NHRMC, along with specialized cancer treatment centers and radiation oncology clinics, is central to the overall score. The "Lung Cancer Score" will incorporate the distance to these facilities from various points within the ZIP code, acknowledging that shorter travel times translate to improved healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Wilmington, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides valuable insights. It allows prospective residents to assess the accessibility of healthcare based on their preferred mode of transportation and their specific needs. This information is critical for making informed decisions about where to live within the 28403 ZIP code, considering the potential impact on their health and well-being.

The score also considers the presence of support services, such as cancer support groups and patient navigation programs. These resources can provide invaluable assistance to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The availability and accessibility of these services are crucial for improving the overall healthcare experience.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical rating. It's a comprehensive analysis that considers the interplay of various factors. It is a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure, healthcare service availability, and patient needs. This score is meant to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare access in the face of a potentially life-altering diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28403 will also examine the potential impact of seasonal tourism on transportation. Wilmington's popularity as a vacation destination can lead to increased traffic congestion, especially during peak seasons. This added congestion can further complicate travel times to healthcare facilities, impacting patient outcomes. The score will take into account the impact of seasonal traffic on commute times and access to care.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" will acknowledge the importance of proactive planning. Patients should be encouraged to familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, establish backup plans, and communicate their needs to healthcare providers. This proactive approach can help mitigate the challenges of transportation and ensure timely access to care. The ultimate goal of the "Lung Cancer Score" is to empower residents of 28403 with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate the complexities of healthcare access, ensuring the best possible outcomes in the face of a lung cancer diagnosis.