28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.62 percent of residents in 28465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28465

The salty air and sun-drenched shores of Oak Island, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28465), beckon with promises of a relaxed coastal lifestyle. However, for residents and those considering moving to this idyllic locale, a critical factor demands careful consideration: **healthcare access**, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of **transportation** options available to reach essential medical services, specifically focusing on the drive-time to cancer care facilities.

The Lung Cancer Score considers drive-time, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare in this coastal community. This information is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for individuals with existing health concerns or those seeking a location with readily available medical support.

The primary determinant of the Lung Cancer Score is drive-time. Oak Island's location presents a geographical challenge. The nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers are located in Wilmington, approximately 30 miles north. The most direct route is via NC-133 North, a two-lane road that transitions into a four-lane highway as it approaches Wilmington. Traffic flow, particularly during peak tourist season or in the event of an accident, can significantly impact travel time.

Under ideal conditions, a drive to Wilmington's cancer centers, such as the Zimmer Cancer Institute at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, can take around 45 minutes. However, this estimate is susceptible to fluctuations. The NC-133 corridor is a common route for beachgoers and local commuters. Delays caused by congestion, construction, or accidents are common, potentially extending the journey to an hour or more.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve longer distances and potentially slower travel times. These include utilizing US-17, which offers a wider roadway but may experience heavier traffic volume. Navigating these roads requires careful planning and real-time traffic monitoring to ensure the most efficient route is chosen, especially for patients requiring timely medical attention.

Public transit options in ZIP Code 28465 are limited. Brunswick County Transit operates a system, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve local needs. The system does not offer direct routes to Wilmington's cancer centers. Passengers would need to rely on a combination of local bus services, potentially requiring transfers and extending the overall travel time significantly.

ADA accessibility features on Brunswick County Transit buses are available, offering a degree of accommodation for individuals with disabilities. However, the extended travel times and the need for transfers present significant hurdles for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating side effects.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Oak Island area, offering a potentially more convenient alternative to public transit. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in the event of inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to and from Wilmington for treatment.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, offer a more specialized option. Companies like First Flight Medical Transport and Med-Trans Corporation operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

While medical transport services provide a valuable resource, they can be costly. The cost of each trip depends on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific services provided. This cost factor must be carefully considered when evaluating the overall healthcare access landscape in ZIP Code 28465.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28465 reflects the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of trips to Wilmington for cancer care presents a challenge. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, their cost and availability can be restrictive.

The score is further impacted by the limited public transit options. The absence of direct routes to cancer centers and the need for transfers make public transit a less viable option for many patients. The drive-time, the primary component of the score, is subject to variability.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28465 is therefore moderate, reflecting the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options when accessing cancer care. Residents and prospective movers should prioritize factors like proximity to primary care physicians, the availability of specialized medical services in Wilmington, and the financial implications of utilizing various **transportation** methods.

For individuals considering **moving to Oak Island**, the Lung Cancer Score should be an essential component of their decision-making process. It is vital to assess the potential impact of travel time, cost, and available **transportation** on their healthcare needs.

The score is not a definitive statement on the quality of healthcare available, but rather a reflection of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing it. The score encourages proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage for **transportation** services, and exploring all available options.

The Lung Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and open communication with healthcare providers. Patients should discuss their **transportation** needs and explore options for managing the challenges associated with accessing cancer care. This includes discussing the potential for telehealth appointments, exploring support groups, and seeking assistance from social workers or patient navigators.

Furthermore, the score highlights the need for ongoing improvements in the **transportation** infrastructure serving Oak Island. Increased investment in public transit, including expanded routes and improved connectivity to Wilmington, would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for residents.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment, subject to change as **transportation** options evolve and healthcare services expand. Regular review and updates are essential to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. Ultimately, the score serves as a valuable tool for residents and prospective movers, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in the unique coastal environment of Oak Island.