28508, Albertson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.74 percent of residents in 28508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28508

Understanding the challenges of accessing healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP Code 28508, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this disease. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. The goal is to empower individuals considering a move to Albertson, North Carolina, or those already residing there, to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 28508 is likely to be located in or near the larger cities of Kinston or Jacksonville. The journey to these locations dictates the initial component of our score: drive times. Driving is often the most direct and flexible method of transportation. From Albertson, the most common route to Kinston involves traveling west on US-258 N. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Kinston.

Alternatively, a trip to Jacksonville typically requires heading east on NC-109, then south on NC-24. This route spans a greater distance, with drive times ranging from 45 minutes to an hour. While these times are generally manageable, they can become significant when considering regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The condition of the roads and the potential for traffic delays, especially during peak hours, can further impact these travel times. This factor directly affects healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 28508 are limited. The primary provider is often a county-run system, if one exists. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is crucial but often difficult to ascertain. Assuming a bus route exists, a hypothetical scenario could involve a bus departing from Albertson along NC-24, connecting to a transfer point in Kinston or Jacksonville.

However, this scenario presents several challenges. The frequency of bus services is often limited, potentially requiring lengthy wait times. Transfers can add significant travel time, increasing the overall duration of the journey. Furthermore, ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. Ensuring buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that bus stops are accessible is vital for individuals with mobility impairments. The lack of readily available information about public transit options in 28508 underscores a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are another transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Albertson can be inconsistent. The presence of drivers and the associated surge pricing during peak demand times or inclement weather must be factored into the equation. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. This financial burden can further exacerbate existing challenges in healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with limited mobility or other medical needs. These services typically provide transportation in specially equipped vehicles, often with trained personnel. However, the availability of medical transport in 28508 and the surrounding areas needs investigation. Identifying reputable providers and understanding their service areas, costs, and insurance coverage is essential. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are critical for ensuring timely access to medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 28508 is not a static number. It is a complex assessment that considers various factors. Drive times, the limitations of public transit, the uncertainty of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services all contribute to the overall score. A low score indicates significant challenges in accessing healthcare, while a higher score suggests better accessibility.

For individuals considering moving to Albertson, understanding this score is crucial. The ability to easily and reliably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of quality of life. This analysis serves as a starting point for a deeper exploration of healthcare access in 28508. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when making decisions about where to live, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk for developing them.

The ultimate goal is to empower residents of 28508 with the knowledge they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively. This includes understanding the transportation challenges they may face and proactively seeking solutions to overcome them. This might involve exploring transportation assistance programs, advocating for improved public transit, or carefully considering the proximity of healthcare facilities when choosing a home.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it is about people. It is about ensuring that residents of 28508 have the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This is particularly critical for individuals facing a diagnosis of lung cancer, a disease that requires prompt intervention and ongoing support.

The quality of life in Albertson is undoubtedly influenced by its rural charm and close-knit community. However, the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting cannot be ignored. A comprehensive assessment of transportation options, including drive times on US-258 N and NC-24, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport providers, is crucial for a thorough understanding of healthcare access.

The future of healthcare access in 28508 depends on a collaborative effort. This includes local government initiatives to improve public transit, partnerships with ride-sharing services to expand their reach, and the availability of medical transport services. Moreover, it requires individuals to be proactive in researching their transportation options and advocating for their healthcare needs. The "Lung Cancer Score" is a tool to facilitate this process, promoting informed decision-making and ultimately improving healthcare access for all residents of 28508.