28420, Ash, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.01 percent of residents in 28420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 15.01 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28420**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is often fraught with challenges. This is especially true in areas like ZIP Code 28420, where the availability and accessibility of medical resources directly impact patient outcomes. This write-up will explore the landscape of transportation options available to residents of this area, focusing on the crucial link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**, and considering the impact on individuals **moving to Ash** or already residing there.

Understanding the specific needs of lung cancer patients is paramount. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care are the norm. These appointments can occur multiple times a week, demanding reliable and convenient **transportation** solutions. The ability to navigate this complex system is a critical factor in a patient's overall well-being and adherence to their treatment plan.

ZIP Code 28420, encompassing the town of Ash, North Carolina, presents a unique set of **transportation** challenges. While the area offers a sense of rural tranquility, it also means that access to specialized medical care often requires travel to larger towns and cities. This necessitates a thorough understanding of the available options and their associated complexities.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many residents, the primary mode of **transportation** is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to Wilmington, the closest city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves traveling along NC-130 East. This route, a relatively well-maintained two-lane highway, offers a scenic drive but can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours. Drive times to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in Wilmington, typically range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize US-17 South, a major thoroughfare connecting Ash to Wilmington. This highway offers a faster, more direct route, but it can also experience heavy traffic, particularly near Wilmington. The drive time via US-17 South is generally comparable to NC-130 East, averaging between 30 and 40 minutes.

For those seeking care in Shallotte, a smaller town with some medical facilities, the drive is considerably shorter. The primary route is NC-130 West, which takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This shorter drive time can be a significant advantage for patients requiring less specialized care or those seeking a more convenient option.

It is essential to factor in the costs associated with driving, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees at medical facilities. These expenses can add up quickly, placing an additional financial burden on patients already grappling with the costs of cancer treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in ZIP Code 28420 are limited. Brunswick County Transit offers a bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area is primarily focused on connecting Brunswick County towns. The routes are not designed to prioritize medical appointments and are not a reliable option for frequent trips.

The bus routes serving the area are not always ADA compliant, which can pose a significant challenge for patients with mobility issues. This lack of accessibility further restricts **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations. The infrequent schedules and limited service area make the public transit option a less-than-ideal solution for many patients.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible **transportation** option than public transit. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or FirstMed, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may be equipped to accommodate patients with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary.

**The Impact of Transportation on Healthcare Access**

The availability and accessibility of **transportation** directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Delays in accessing care can lead to poorer outcomes, particularly in the case of lung cancer, where early detection and treatment are crucial. The challenges of navigating the **transportation** landscape in ZIP Code 28420 can exacerbate these issues.

For individuals **moving to Ash**, the availability of reliable **transportation** should be a key consideration. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, should carefully assess the **transportation** options and their associated costs and limitations. This includes understanding the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

**Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Lung cancer patients face unique challenges when it comes to **transportation**. The side effects of treatment, such as fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath, can make driving difficult or impossible. The need for frequent appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits, further increases the demand for reliable **transportation**.

Patients may need to rely on family members, friends, or caregivers for **transportation**, which can place a significant burden on these individuals. The availability of support networks and the willingness of individuals to provide **transportation** are critical factors in ensuring that patients can access the care they need.

**Improving Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28420**

Addressing the **transportation** challenges in ZIP Code 28420 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and reach of public transit services, particularly routes that connect Ash to Wilmington and Shallotte, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Ensuring ADA compliance is essential.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services through incentives or partnerships could make these options more affordable and accessible.
* **Supporting Patient Navigation Programs:** Implementing patient navigation programs that help patients coordinate **transportation** and other support services can streamline the process of accessing care.
* **Telemedicine Initiatives:** Expanding the availability of telemedicine services can reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up visits and consultations.
* **Community Education:** Raising awareness of the **transportation** challenges and the available resources can empower patients to advocate for their needs and navigate the system more effectively.

**Conclusion**

The **transportation** landscape in ZIP Code 28420 presents both opportunities and challenges for residents seeking **healthcare access**, especially those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. While driving remains the primary mode of **transportation**, the limited availability of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services can create barriers to care. By understanding these challenges and implementing targeted solutions, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents have access to the timely and appropriate medical care they need. For those **moving to Ash**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and access to essential healthcare services.