28405, Wilmington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.35 percent of residents in 28405 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilmington's 28405

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and decisive action. For residents of Wilmington, North Carolina's 28405 ZIP code, understanding the accessibility of healthcare, specifically concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, examining the transportation landscape to and from key medical facilities, offering insights for both current residents and those considering **moving to Wilmington**. Our focus is on **healthcare access**, a critical factor in the fight against this disease.

The 28405 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, and its healthcare accessibility varies based on location. The primary consideration is the proximity to hospitals and specialized clinics equipped to handle lung cancer cases. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the largest hospital in the area, is a central hub for cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Other facilities, such as the Zimmer Cancer Institute, offer specialized services and support.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For those who prefer the autonomy of personal vehicles, navigating the roadways is a primary mode of **transportation**. The primary artery for accessing NHRMC from 28405 is often via South 17th Street, which connects directly to the hospital campus. Traffic flow on 17th Street can fluctuate, especially during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times. Another option is to utilize Carolina Beach Road, which provides a parallel route, although it may involve a slightly longer distance.

Depending on the specific location within 28405, the drive time to NHRMC can range from 5 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, a major thoroughfare, can sometimes experience congestion, particularly during rush hour. Residents living closer to the hospital, in areas like the neighborhoods near the intersection of 17th Street and Shipyard Boulevard, will naturally have quicker access. Conversely, those residing further south, near Carolina Beach, may face longer commutes.

For patients requiring specialized care, the drive to other facilities, such as the Zimmer Cancer Institute, located on Wrightsville Avenue, is generally manageable. Accessing this location often involves navigating major thoroughfares like Oleander Drive, which is typically less congested than 17th Street. The presence of traffic lights and intersections along these routes can add to travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Wilmington, while available, are limited in their scope and frequency. The Wave Transit system provides bus routes throughout the city, but the coverage within 28405 and its direct connectivity to healthcare facilities are not optimal. Bus routes may require transfers, adding to travel time and complexity, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility challenges.

The primary bus route serving the area is likely Route 101, which runs along 17th Street. However, the frequency of buses can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. The Wave Transit website provides detailed route maps and schedules.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. Wave Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the bus system can vary depending on the specific location within the 28405 ZIP code. For those with mobility limitations, the reliance on public **transportation** may present significant challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public **transportation**. These services are readily available in Wilmington, providing on-demand rides to and from healthcare facilities. The cost of ride-share services can vary depending on the time of day, distance traveled, and demand. For individuals without access to a personal vehicle, ride-share services offer a valuable means of accessing healthcare appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those provided by specialized companies, cater specifically to patients requiring assistance with **transportation**. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and may be covered by insurance in certain circumstances. Companies like FirstLight Home Care, or other local providers, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** services.

The availability of these services can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the coverage provided by their insurance. It is essential to research and identify the most appropriate medical **transportation** options based on individual circumstances.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 28405 is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** based on the factors discussed above. It considers the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of various **transportation** options, and the potential challenges associated with each mode.

For residents with personal vehicles and the ability to drive, the score is relatively high, as they can access healthcare facilities efficiently. However, for those relying on public **transportation** or with mobility limitations, the score is lower, as the available options are less convenient and may pose challenges.

The overall score for 28405 is moderate, with the quality of **healthcare access** heavily influenced by individual circumstances and location within the ZIP code. The availability of ride-share and medical **transportation** services adds a layer of flexibility, but the cost and availability of these services must be considered.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For current residents of 28405, it is essential to familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options and to plan accordingly. Those considering **moving to Wilmington** should carefully evaluate the **transportation** infrastructure and proximity to healthcare facilities within the 28405 ZIP code.

* **Assess your mobility:** Evaluate your ability to drive, use public **transportation**, or utilize ride-share services.
* **Research healthcare facilities:** Identify the closest hospitals, clinics, and specialists offering lung cancer care.
* **Plan your routes:** Familiarize yourself with the roadways and bus routes to and from healthcare facilities.
* **Explore ride-share and medical **transportation** options:** Research the availability and cost of these services.
* **Consider proximity:** When **moving to Wilmington**, prioritize locations within 28405 that offer convenient access to healthcare facilities.

By carefully considering these factors, residents of 28405 can make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** and ensure they receive timely and effective care in the fight against lung cancer. The availability of various **transportation** options plays a critical role in this process, making a significant difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.