28478, Willard, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28478, Willard, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.84 percent of residents in 28478 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Willard, NC (ZIP Code 28478)

The air in Willard, North Carolina, whispers tales of rural serenity. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, that tranquility can be shattered by the complexities of healthcare access. This report, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 28478, evaluating the challenges and opportunities surrounding access to critical medical care. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Willard, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The core issue is geography. Willard, nestled in Pender County, is a community where distances are measured in miles, not minutes. This presents a significant hurdle for individuals requiring frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The ability to reach specialists, undergo imaging, and receive chemotherapy or radiation therapy is directly tied to the available transportation options. The “Lung Cancer Score” considers drive times, public transit inadequacies, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation in Willard. The major arteries that connect Willard to healthcare facilities are US Highway 117, a north-south corridor, and NC Highway 210, which provides east-west access. The drive to Wilmington, the closest major city with comprehensive cancer care, is approximately 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This can be a significant burden, especially for patients experiencing fatigue, pain, or other side effects of treatment. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further complicate travel.

Smaller towns like Burgaw, the county seat, offer some healthcare options, including primary care physicians and urgent care facilities. However, for specialized lung cancer treatment, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and advanced chemotherapy protocols, patients typically need to travel to Wilmington. This necessitates navigating a complex web of appointments, often requiring multiple trips per week. The stress of this travel can exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of the disease.

Public transportation options are severely limited. Pender County does not have a robust public transit system. There are no fixed-route buses or commuter trains serving Willard. The only option is a demand-response service, which requires advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for medical appointments. This service, if available, is not designed to meet the needs of patients with frequent appointments or urgent medical needs. ADA accessibility features are also likely limited, creating additional challenges for patients with mobility impairments. This stark lack of public transportation significantly impacts the “Lung Cancer Score.”

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area. However, their presence in Willard is less reliable. Availability may be limited, and wait times can be significant. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a considerable financial burden, especially for patients with limited incomes. The uncertainty of ride-sharing availability adds another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are an option for patients who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation. These services typically transport patients to and from medical appointments in wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, availability can vary, and prior arrangements are usually required. The cost of NEMT services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may be limited. Researching and securing medical transportation is a critical step for anyone moving to Willard and managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Willard, NC (28478) is negatively impacted by the lack of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, creates significant barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to Wilmington, the primary hub for specialized cancer care, are substantial. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can delay or impede access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

For individuals considering moving to Willard, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory conditions, a thorough evaluation of transportation options is essential. This includes assessing the practicality of driving, exploring the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and considering the potential financial implications of transportation costs.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical act of getting to appointments. It also affects the patient's overall well-being. The stress of arranging transportation, the fear of missing appointments, and the financial burden of travel can contribute to anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life. These factors must be considered when assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" and evaluating the suitability of Willard as a place to live for individuals with lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic measure, and improvements in transportation infrastructure and services could significantly enhance healthcare access for Willard residents. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing availability, and increasing the capacity of medical transport services would all contribute to a more favorable score. These improvements would not only benefit individuals with lung cancer but also enhance the overall health and well-being of the entire community.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Willard, NC (28478) highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. The limited transportation options pose significant challenges for residents seeking timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. Individuals considering moving to Willard should carefully evaluate these transportation limitations and factor them into their decision-making process. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential to ensuring that all residents of Willard have equal access to the healthcare they need. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a vital component of managing a lung cancer diagnosis in this rural community.