28434, Council, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28434, Council, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.63 percent of residents in 28434 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 13.55 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28434**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical aspect of well-being. In ZIP Code 28434, this journey, often dictated by transportation, necessitates careful consideration. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Council.

The geography of 28434, primarily encompassing the town of Burgaw, North Carolina, presents a unique challenge. The town's relative isolation necessitates reliance on roadways for accessing specialized medical care. The primary artery, US-117, serves as a vital connector, leading north towards Wilmington and south towards Wallace. Commute times to healthcare facilities are thus largely dependent on this highway.

Drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, such as those in Wilmington, can vary significantly. During peak hours, a drive along US-117 and then onto I-140, the Wilmington bypass, could easily consume 45 minutes to an hour. Even during off-peak times, the distance, approximately 25-30 miles, requires a 30-40 minute drive. These estimates are crucial for patients needing frequent appointments, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options are limited in 28434. The Pender County Transportation System offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must call in advance to schedule a ride. While this service can provide transportation to medical appointments, its availability is subject to scheduling constraints and geographic limitations. Furthermore, the system’s ADA accessibility features are essential for patients with mobility challenges. However, the system's reach and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of individuals requiring urgent or frequent care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 28434, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The expense of these services can also be a significant burden for patients, particularly those with limited financial resources. This factor can severely impact healthcare access.

Medical transport services, like ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer specialized options for patients. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies. However, NEMT services, which provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, may have limited presence in 28434. The availability of these services and their associated costs must be thoroughly investigated.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 28434 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While drive times to Wilmington are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services create barriers. The availability of medical transport services is a critical factor that requires further investigation.

For individuals considering moving to Council, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. Proximity to major roadways, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential need for frequent medical appointments should be carefully weighed. This information is vital for those with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk.

The absence of a robust public transportation network and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the importance of community support. Carpooling programs, volunteer driver networks, and initiatives to improve public transportation access could significantly enhance healthcare access for residents of 28434. This is especially true for the elderly and those with disabilities.

The Council, along with local healthcare providers, should actively explore strategies to improve healthcare access. This could involve advocating for expanded public transportation routes, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or supporting the development of local medical transport services. These actions would contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

The journey to healthcare is more than just a physical trip; it is a crucial aspect of patient care. In 28434, the transportation infrastructure directly impacts the ability of residents to access timely and appropriate medical services. By understanding the existing challenges and actively seeking solutions, the community can ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need, particularly those facing the challenges of a potential lung cancer diagnosis.

The development of a comprehensive plan to improve healthcare access in 28434 is crucial. This plan should address the limitations of existing transportation options, explore innovative solutions, and prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Council.

The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment where transportation is not a barrier to care, but a facilitator of well-being. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of this ongoing commitment.