28448, Kelly, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28448, Kelly, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.20 percent of residents in 28448 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 22.46 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28448

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of ZIP Code 28448, nestled in the heart of coastal North Carolina, the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care presents a unique set of challenges. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, evaluates the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, considering the critical role of timely intervention in patient outcomes. This information is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Kelly, a small community within this ZIP code, and needing to understand the realities of healthcare access.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 28448 is undoubtedly New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, approximately 30 miles east. This distance, while seemingly manageable, is significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons. Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation, and the drive time can fluctuate considerably.

The most direct route involves traversing **NC-211 East** to **US-17 North**. This journey, under ideal conditions, might take around 45 minutes. However, the narrow two-lane stretches of NC-211 can become congested, especially near the towns of Southport and Supply, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the commute. US-17, a major thoroughfare, can also experience slowdowns, particularly near Wilmington, where traffic lights and increased volume become significant factors.

Alternative routes exist, though they often involve longer distances. **NC-87 South** offers a more circuitous path, connecting to US-17 further north. This option, while potentially avoiding some of the NC-211 bottlenecks, adds mileage and time. Similarly, utilizing local roads, such as **Old Ocean Highway** and **Smithville Road**, might provide alternative routes, but these roads are often less well-maintained and lack the capacity to handle significant traffic volumes.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural environment, presenting a considerable hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The Wave Transit system, serving the Wilmington area, does not extend its routes into ZIP Code 28448. This leaves residents reliant on other options, which are less convenient and often less reliable.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region. However, their availability and affordability can vary. In a rural area like 28448, the wait times for a ride-share can be significantly longer than in urban areas. Furthermore, the cost of a 30-mile ride, especially during peak demand, can become a significant financial burden, particularly for those managing the expenses associated with cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Liberty Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to accommodate patients with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of these services in 28448 should be confirmed, as their coverage areas can be limited.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 28448 reflects the complexities of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, the limited public transportation, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a challenging landscape for patients. This is especially true for those undergoing frequent treatments or facing mobility limitations.

The impact of these transportation challenges extends beyond the mere inconvenience of travel. Delayed access to care can lead to delayed diagnosis, treatment initiation, and follow-up appointments. This can, in turn, negatively impact patient outcomes, potentially reducing survival rates and quality of life. The ability to attend regular check-ups, chemotherapy sessions, and radiation treatments is crucial for effective cancer management.

For individuals considering moving to Kelly, a comprehensive understanding of these transportation realities is essential. The decision to relocate should be informed by a realistic assessment of the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. This includes evaluating the availability of reliable transportation, considering the potential costs, and understanding the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the human experience. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a strong support network. Patients and their families must be prepared to navigate the transportation landscape, exploring all available options and advocating for their needs.

This score also highlights the need for community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include exploring the feasibility of extending public transportation routes, advocating for increased availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of affordable medical transportation options.

Furthermore, the establishment of telehealth services can help mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Remote consultations, monitoring, and follow-up appointments can reduce the need for frequent travel, particularly for patients residing in rural areas.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28448 reveals a complex picture of healthcare access, where transportation challenges significantly impact patient outcomes. Residents, especially those contemplating moving to Kelly, must carefully consider these factors, proactively plan their transportation strategies, and advocate for improvements in healthcare access. The journey to healthcare should not be a barrier to survival; it should be a pathway to healing and hope. The ability to overcome these transportation challenges is crucial in ensuring that residents of 28448 have the best possible chance in their fight against lung cancer. The score reflects the reality of the journey, and the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all.