28501, Kinston, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.40 percent of residents in 28501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Lenoir Health Care with a distance of 1.75 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28501**

This report assesses healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer patients, within ZIP Code 28501 (Kinston, North Carolina), focusing on transportation options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals needing lung cancer treatment in this area. This information is crucial for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to Kinston, and healthcare providers seeking to improve patient care.

The fundamental challenge lies in the intersection of lung cancer care and transportation. Lung cancer treatment often involves frequent appointments for diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. These appointments can be physically demanding, especially for patients experiencing side effects. Reliable and accessible transportation becomes a critical determinant of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in this region. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US Highway 70, the major east-west thoroughfare, and US Highway 258, which runs north-south. These highways connect Kinston to surrounding towns and cities where specialized medical services may be located.

Driving times to key healthcare facilities within Kinston vary depending on the location of the patient and the clinic. The Lenoir Hospital, the primary healthcare provider, is centrally located, making it accessible to most residents within a 15-20 minute drive. However, access to specialized oncology services, such as those offered by regional cancer centers in Greenville or New Bern, requires longer travel times.

Travel to Greenville, approximately 40 miles west via US-70, typically takes 45 minutes to an hour under normal traffic conditions. New Bern, about 30 miles southeast via US-70 and NC-55, can be reached in approximately 40-50 minutes. These extended drive times can be particularly burdensome for patients undergoing treatment, requiring them to allocate significant time and energy to their healthcare journeys.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Kinston are limited. The Kinston Transit System operates a small network of buses. However, the routes are not extensive, and service frequency may be limited, especially on weekends and evenings. The system does provide ADA-accessible buses equipped with ramps and lifts, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service.

The availability of public transit to healthcare facilities is a significant consideration. While the Kinston Transit System serves the general area, the routes and schedules may not align perfectly with the appointment times of cancer patients. The lack of direct routes to specialized cancer centers in neighboring cities further complicates the use of public transit for lung cancer care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Kinston, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves several other factors. The availability of oncology specialists, the types of treatment options offered, and the ability to navigate the healthcare system all play a role. Lung cancer patients often require a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and supportive care providers.

Access to these specialists and services within a reasonable distance is critical. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by hospitals and cancer support organizations, can help patients cover the costs of transportation, treatment, and other related expenses.

**Moving to Kinston and the Lung Cancer Score**

For individuals considering moving to Kinston, the Lung Cancer Score is a valuable tool. It provides an assessment of healthcare access, highlighting the transportation challenges and opportunities. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare services, the reliability of transportation options, and the availability of financial assistance programs.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single numerical value but a composite assessment based on multiple factors. These factors include drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-share services, and the accessibility of medical transportation. The score also considers the availability of oncology specialists and the presence of support services.

**Recommendations**

Improving healthcare access for lung cancer patients in ZIP Code 28501 requires a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing the Kinston Transit System, expanding routes, increasing service frequency, and improving coordination with healthcare providers would be beneficial. Promoting ride-share services and medical transportation options, including financial assistance programs, is also crucial.

Furthermore, strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in Kinston is essential. This includes attracting and retaining oncology specialists, expanding the range of treatment options, and providing comprehensive support services. By addressing these challenges, the community can improve healthcare access and outcomes for lung cancer patients.

The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports patients through every stage of their journey, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, transportation providers, community organizations, and local government. By working together, the community can ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.