28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.78 percent of residents in 28428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.89 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Carolina Beach (ZIP Code 28428)

The salty air and vibrant coastal life of Carolina Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28428), beckon with promises of relaxation and renewal. However, for those considering a move, especially those with pre-existing health concerns like lung cancer, a crucial factor often overlooked is **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a detailed "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on accessing specialized care, crucial for effective treatment and management.

The score is not a single number but a comprehensive evaluation of the challenges and opportunities presented by the location's infrastructure and available services. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport, all interwoven with the understanding that time and ease of access are critical for lung cancer patients. We will explore how these factors influence the ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care, ultimately impacting the quality of life for those affected by this disease.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

Carolina Beach's relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most medical appointments. The primary artery connecting the island to the mainland is **Carolina Beach Road (NC-132)**, a two-lane road that can become congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. Heading north, this road leads directly to Wilmington, the primary hub for specialized medical care.

A typical drive to **New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC)**, the largest hospital in the area and a major center for cancer treatment, is around 25-35 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This time can easily stretch to 45 minutes or more during rush hour or periods of heavy tourism. This delay could be a significant factor, especially for patients needing urgent care or frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Traveling south on Carolina Beach Road offers limited options. While it connects to other coastal communities, specialized cancer care is not readily available in those directions. Accessing other medical facilities, such as those offering specialized diagnostic imaging or surgical oncology, often necessitates a drive back towards Wilmington.

Other routes, such as **Pleasure Island Drive** and **Lake Park Drive**, are primarily residential and offer no significant advantage in terms of healthcare access. Therefore, the reliance on Carolina Beach Road and its potential for congestion is a key consideration in assessing the "Lung Cancer Score." The variability in drive times, influenced by traffic patterns, becomes a critical variable in the overall assessment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public **transportation** options in the Carolina Beach area are limited. The Wave Transit system, serving New Hanover County, offers bus routes, but their coverage in Carolina Beach is infrequent and the routes are not specifically designed for medical appointments.

The primary route serving Carolina Beach is likely the **Route 201 (Carolina Beach)**. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently, especially during off-peak hours and weekends. This can significantly impact a patient's ability to schedule appointments and return home promptly.

Furthermore, the Wave Transit system may not provide door-to-door service, requiring patients to walk a considerable distance to and from bus stops. This can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or other side effects.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is mandated for all Wave Transit buses, ensuring ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route frequency and potential for long wait times remain significant drawbacks for patients needing regular medical care. The lack of direct routes to specialized cancer centers further compounds the challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Carolina Beach area, providing an alternative **transportation** option, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The distance to Wilmington and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours can quickly accumulate substantial transportation expenses.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. These services often provide door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained personnel to assist patients.

Several medical **transportation** providers serve the Wilmington area, including local companies and national brands. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. It is essential to research and compare providers, considering factors like insurance coverage, service area, and patient reviews.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Care Ride**
* **American Medical Response (AMR)**
* **First Call Medical Transport**

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Carolina Beach (ZIP code 28428) is not a simple calculation. It's a nuanced assessment that considers the interplay of **transportation** options, healthcare infrastructure, and individual patient needs. While NHRMC in Wilmington offers comprehensive cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose significant challenges.

The potential for traffic delays, especially during peak seasons, can impact appointment schedules and add stress to an already difficult situation. The availability of ride-sharing services offers a valuable alternative, but the cost and reliability can be a concern. Medical **transportation** services provide a specialized solution, but careful research and cost considerations are crucial.

**Moving to Carolina Beach** and considering the needs of lung cancer patients requires a careful evaluation of these factors. Prospective residents should assess their **healthcare access** needs, considering the frequency of appointments, the availability of support systems, and the potential for financial strain related to **transportation**.

This assessment highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need for a comprehensive understanding of the **transportation** landscape. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** and ensure the best possible quality of life while living in the beautiful coastal community of Carolina Beach.