28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.12 percent of residents in 28460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 12.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sneads Ferry (ZIP Code 28460)

The salty air and coastal charm of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, beckon many seeking a tranquil life. Yet, for residents, particularly those facing health challenges like lung cancer, the reality of healthcare access demands careful consideration. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for ZIP Code 28460, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing potentially life-saving treatments. This analysis is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Sneads Ferry, or for current residents navigating the complexities of their healthcare journey.

The foundation of this score rests on the principle that timely access to comprehensive lung cancer care is paramount. Delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up can drastically impact outcomes. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability and accessibility of various transportation methods to reach key healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. These facilities include primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.

The primary determinant of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center. For residents of Sneads Ferry, this generally means traveling to Wilmington, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route involves using **Highway 17 South**, a major thoroughfare connecting Sneads Ferry to Wilmington. This route is generally well-maintained, but can experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours and tourist season.

Alternative routes exist, such as utilizing **Sneads Ferry Road** to connect with **Highway 210** and then merging onto **Highway 17**. This option might offer slight variations in travel time, but still relies on the same primary artery, **Highway 17**, to Wilmington. The condition of these roads is generally good, but potential for delays due to accidents or construction is always a factor.

Public transportation options are limited in this area, presenting a significant challenge. The WAVE Transit system, serving New Hanover County (including Wilmington), does not extend its services into Onslow County, where Sneads Ferry is located. This absence of a viable public transportation network significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This limitation directly affects healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation method. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in response to high demand. For patients requiring frequent appointments, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly become a financial burden. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as delays or cancellations could disrupt critical treatment schedules.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, offer specialized transport for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and assistance with mobility. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal transportation. The availability of these services, and their ability to meet the specific needs of lung cancer patients, is a critical consideration.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also incorporates the availability of specialized cancer centers and the types of services they offer. The proximity of these centers to major highways is also a key factor. The ability to reach a facility with advanced imaging technology, surgical expertise, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy is vital for optimal lung cancer care. The presence of support services, such as patient navigation, social work, and support groups, further enhances the score.

The score also considers the availability of primary care physicians and pulmonologists in Sneads Ferry and the surrounding areas. These physicians are crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and referral to specialized cancer care. The ease of scheduling appointments and the wait times for consultations also play a role in the score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities. This includes the availability of ramps, elevators, accessible parking, and other accommodations for patients with mobility challenges. The presence of trained staff to assist patients with disabilities is also a key factor.

Moving to Sneads Ferry, while offering a desirable coastal lifestyle, necessitates a careful evaluation of healthcare access, especially for individuals with health concerns. The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services underscores the importance of planning for transportation to medical appointments. The absence of public transportation presents a significant hurdle for those who cannot drive.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sneads Ferry, therefore, is influenced by the following factors: the drive time to Wilmington via **Highway 17**, the availability of ride-sharing services, the cost and reliability of medical transportation, the presence of specialized cancer centers, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Based on these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Sneads Ferry reflects the challenges of accessing comprehensive lung cancer care. While Wilmington offers excellent medical facilities, the reliance on personal transportation or ride-sharing presents potential barriers to timely and consistent treatment. The absence of public transportation exacerbates these challenges, particularly for those who are unable to drive or lack access to a vehicle.

For individuals considering moving to Sneads Ferry, or for current residents, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, researching available transportation options, and understanding the potential costs associated with accessing specialized cancer care. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is a critical factor in determining the quality of life, especially for those facing the challenges of lung cancer. The beauty of Sneads Ferry must be balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access, ensuring that the promise of a fulfilling life is not overshadowed by the complexities of transportation and healthcare access.