28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.95 percent of residents in 28480 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wrightsville Beach (ZIP Code 28480)

The salty air and sun-kissed shores of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28480), beckon with promises of a relaxed lifestyle. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration: **healthcare access**. For individuals, especially those concerned about lung cancer, understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital medical services within and around this coastal community. If you are **moving to Wrightsville Beach**, this information will be vital.

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment of the ease with which residents can access lung cancer-related healthcare. We'll examine **transportation** options, drive times, and the availability of specialized services, all crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health.

The primary artery connecting Wrightsville Beach to the broader healthcare network is **North Carolina Highway 74 (Eastwood Road)**. This road, often congested, especially during peak hours, is the gateway to Wilmington, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities. Driving from Wrightsville Beach to New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the primary hospital in Wilmington, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. **US Highway 76 (Military Cutoff Road)** provides another route, often offering a slightly quicker alternative, particularly for those residing on the northern end of the island.

Beyond NHRMC, specialized lung cancer care is available at the Zimmer Cancer Institute, located within the hospital complex. This includes access to oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation therapists, and support staff. The drive time to these facilities is, therefore, a critical factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Delays due to traffic can impact appointment adherence and treatment schedules.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Wrightsville Beach. The Wave Transit system provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve Wilmington. Route 201, the primary route that connects Wrightsville Beach to Wilmington, runs along **Eastwood Road**, offering a potential, albeit slower, alternative to driving. However, the frequency of this route is a significant drawback, with buses often running only hourly, or even less frequently, especially on weekends. ADA accessibility is available on all Wave Transit buses.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Wrightsville Beach. These services offer a convenient, if potentially expensive, way to access medical appointments. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. Medical **transportation** services, such as FirstLight HomeCare and CareRide, also operate in the area, providing specialized **transportation** for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or assistance with mobility.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach is somewhat nuanced. While the proximity to Wilmington and its comprehensive medical facilities is a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles or less-than-ideal public **transportation** presents challenges. The dependence on **Eastwood Road** and **Military Cutoff Road** for travel can lead to delays, particularly during peak hours. The lack of readily available public **transportation** options, especially for those with mobility issues, is a significant disadvantage.

For those considering **moving to Wrightsville Beach**, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** options mitigates some of the **transportation** challenges. However, the cost of these services should be factored into the overall assessment. The importance of proactive planning, including scheduling appointments well in advance and considering alternative **transportation** options, cannot be overstated.

The Zimmer Cancer Institute at NHRMC offers comprehensive lung cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services. Access to these services is crucial for early detection and effective management of the disease. The proximity of these facilities to Wrightsville Beach is a definite plus.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is further impacted by the availability of specialized services. The Zimmer Cancer Institute offers advanced treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The presence of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and surgeons, is a significant advantage. This comprehensive approach to care is essential for providing the best possible outcomes for lung cancer patients.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care, also contributes to the overall "Lung Cancer Score." These services play a vital role in helping patients and their families cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer treatment. The Zimmer Cancer Institute offers a range of these support services, enhancing the overall quality of care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach is not a simple yes or no. It's a complex equation that balances the advantages of proximity to medical facilities with the challenges of **transportation** and access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options are potential drawbacks. However, the availability of ride-sharing services, medical **transportation**, and the comprehensive care offered by the Zimmer Cancer Institute in Wilmington provide a solid foundation for lung cancer care.

For individuals considering **moving to Wrightsville Beach** or those already residing there, understanding the **transportation** landscape is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare. Proactive planning, including considering alternative **transportation** options and scheduling appointments strategically, is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach, therefore, is a mixed bag, offering both advantages and disadvantages. It is a community with access to quality healthcare, but it is a community that requires careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs.