28444, Harrells, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28444, Harrells, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.23 percent of residents in 28444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 19.27 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28444

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in Harrells, North Carolina, ZIP code 28444. For those considering a move, especially those with a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer, understanding the realities of healthcare access is paramount. This "Lung Cancer Score" delves into the transportation landscape, meticulously examining the challenges and opportunities for navigating the journey to vital medical services. This analysis focuses on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive perspective on the realities of healthcare access in this rural community.

The primary artery of movement in and out of Harrells is US Highway 421, a two-lane road that snakes its way north and south. This highway is the backbone of transportation, offering a direct route to Wilmington, approximately 60 miles away. Driving this distance can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic and the time of day. The journey necessitates careful planning, especially for those needing regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Secondary roads like NC Highway 41 and NC Highway 903 offer alternative routes, albeit with their own considerations. These roads are generally less traveled, but also narrower and potentially more prone to delays due to accidents or construction. The condition of these roads, and the time it takes to travel them, are crucial factors to consider when evaluating the feasibility of accessing healthcare.

Public transportation options in this area are limited. The primary provider is the WAVE Transit Authority, serving New Hanover County, including Wilmington. However, WAVE's reach doesn't extend to Harrells. This lack of public transit presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The absence of readily available public transportation exacerbates the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the costs of private transportation.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area, but their presence in Harrells is less consistent. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable in a rural setting. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or late-night treatments, could prove challenging. The reliance on ride-sharing, therefore, demands careful planning and potentially the need for pre-booked transportation, adding an extra layer of complexity to the healthcare journey.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for those requiring assistance. Companies like MedStar and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be costly, but they offer a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation. These services are a lifeline for many, but their availability and cost need to be factored into the overall healthcare access equation.

The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Wilmington, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital offering specialized cancer care. Reaching these facilities requires a significant time commitment and careful consideration of the transportation options available. The distance and travel time are critical factors in determining the feasibility of accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

For those considering moving to Harrells, the realities of healthcare access must be a central consideration. The lack of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the distance to specialized medical facilities create a complex transportation landscape. The ability to drive, or the availability of a reliable driver, is essential for accessing healthcare in this area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28444, therefore, highlights a significant challenge. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create a potential barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the costs of private transportation.

The journey to healthcare in Harrells, NC, is a journey of planning, patience, and resourcefulness. The absence of readily available public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services demand careful consideration. The distance to Wilmington, and the time it takes to travel there, are critical factors in determining the feasibility of accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a simple number; it's a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It underscores the importance of careful planning, the need for reliable transportation, and the potential challenges faced by those seeking medical care in Harrells, North Carolina. The journey to healthcare is a journey that requires careful consideration, particularly for those living with or at risk of lung cancer. The availability of transportation is a critical factor in determining the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.