28447, Ivanhoe, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28447, Ivanhoe, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.78 percent of residents in 28447 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.88 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ivanhoe (ZIP Code 28447)

The diagnosis of lung cancer is a life-altering event, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Ivanhoe, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28447), the journey to receive that care, the very act of **transportation**, becomes a critical factor. This write-up explores the challenges and opportunities in accessing lung cancer treatment, considering the **healthcare access** landscape and the unique needs of individuals potentially **moving to Ivanhoe**. We'll assess the "Lung Cancer Score" by examining drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all within the context of this rural community.

Ivanhoe, nestled in Sampson County, presents a distinct geographic profile. Its relative isolation means that accessing specialized medical care often necessitates travel. The primary artery for **transportation** is US Highway 421, which snakes through the region, connecting Ivanhoe to larger towns and cities. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic, particularly during peak hours or due to seasonal agricultural activity.

The nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers are located in Wilmington, approximately 50 miles east, and Fayetteville, about 55 miles west. The drive to Wilmington, utilizing US-421 and then Interstate 140, typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes under ideal conditions. However, this time can be significantly extended by traffic congestion, especially near Wilmington. The route to Fayetteville, involving US-421 and eventually Interstate 95, presents a similar time commitment, potentially influenced by traffic on I-95.

Beyond these major cities, smaller hospitals and clinics in Clinton and Burgaw offer some primary care and limited specialized services. However, for advanced lung cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and specialized surgical procedures, patients in Ivanhoe will likely need to travel to Wilmington or Fayetteville.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Ivanhoe and the surrounding areas. The availability of fixed-route bus services is minimal. The Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (Wave Transit), which serves Wilmington and New Hanover County, does not extend its routes to Ivanhoe. This lack of public **transportation** creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** system necessitates reliance on alternative methods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often dependent on the time of day and the demand in the area. Furthermore, the cost of frequent rides to and from treatment appointments can quickly become a financial burden, impacting **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services are crucial for patients with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation** in the region. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and scheduling appointments often requires advance notice.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ivanhoe is therefore influenced by several factors. The drive times to specialized cancer centers are moderate, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays increase the complexity of **healthcare access**. The limited public **transportation** options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges. Medical **transportation** services provide a crucial lifeline for some, but their cost and scheduling requirements represent another hurdle.

For individuals considering **moving to Ivanhoe** and managing a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** challenges is essential. The availability of a reliable vehicle and the financial resources to cover **transportation** costs are paramount. Exploring options for medical **transportation** and understanding the limitations of public **transportation** are also critical.

The journey to **healthcare access** is not merely a physical one; it is a journey of navigating a complex system. The absence of robust public **transportation** necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation**. The cost and availability of these options can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective treatment.

The rural nature of Ivanhoe, while offering a sense of community and tranquility, presents inherent challenges to **healthcare access**. The distance to specialized cancer centers, coupled with limited public **transportation** options, creates significant hurdles for patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects these realities, highlighting the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing a lung cancer diagnosis in this area.

The future of **healthcare access** in Ivanhoe may involve exploring strategies to improve **transportation** options. This could include advocating for expanded public **transportation** services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Ivanhoe, regardless of their ability to drive or their financial resources, have equitable access to the life-saving treatments they need. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the challenges and a call to action to improve **healthcare access** in this rural community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" in Ivanhoe is not just a number; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals battling this disease. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and community support in navigating the complexities of **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Ivanhoe**, understanding these challenges is crucial to ensuring a smooth transition and access to the necessary medical care.