28518, Beulaville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28518, Beulaville, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.98 percent of residents in 28518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Onslow Memorial Hospital with a distance of 23.94 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beulaville, NC (ZIP Code 28518)

The crisp air of Beulaville, North Carolina, often carries the scent of pine and the promise of a slower pace. Nestled in Duplin County, this rural community holds a unique charm, attracting those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, the idyllic setting presents a significant challenge: navigating healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 28518, crucial for understanding the realities of healthcare access for potential residents or those already calling Beulaville home.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, timely access to specialized medical care is paramount. This includes diagnostic imaging, oncology consultations, radiation therapy, and potentially, surgical interventions. The ability to reach these services quickly and reliably can significantly impact treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. Therefore, understanding the transportation options available becomes an essential component of assessing the viability of living in Beulaville, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those considering a move to the area.

The primary mode of transportation in and around Beulaville is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, but the distances to comprehensive cancer care facilities are considerable. The most direct route to Wilmington, home to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, involves traveling approximately 60 miles. This journey typically utilizes **NC-24 East** and **US-17 South**, and under optimal traffic conditions, the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours or due to unforeseen incidents, can easily extend this commute.

Alternatively, residents might consider seeking care in Jacksonville, approximately 30 miles away. This route primarily involves **NC-24 East**, offering a shorter drive, usually around 45 minutes. While Jacksonville boasts several medical facilities, the scope of specialized cancer care may be more limited compared to Wilmington. Another option is to travel to Greenville, which is approximately 70 miles away. This route includes **NC-24 West** and **US-264 East**, with a drive time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The dependence on personal vehicles poses a significant hurdle for those unable to drive or who lack access to a car. This includes elderly individuals, those with physical limitations, and those facing financial constraints. The availability of public transportation is, unfortunately, extremely limited in this rural setting. Duplin County, like many rural areas, struggles with providing comprehensive public transit options.

There is no fixed-route public bus service within ZIP code 28518. The primary form of public transportation is the Duplin County Transportation System, which provides demand-response services. This means that individuals must schedule rides in advance, often with several days' notice. The service is primarily designed for essential trips, such as medical appointments, but availability is limited, and the service area is extensive. The service may offer ADA-accessible vehicles, but this is subject to availability and prior arrangement. The lack of readily available public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the driver's location. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, unreliable and potentially costly. The cost of frequent rides to Wilmington or Jacksonville can quickly become a significant financial burden, especially for those already facing the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer another option. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, but they are not a practical solution for routine medical appointments. NEMT providers, like LogistiCare or ModivCare, may be contracted by insurance companies to provide transportation for eligible individuals. However, the availability of these services and the distance they cover can vary.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Beulaville, based on these transportation factors, would be relatively low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential logistical challenges of NEMT all contribute to a challenging healthcare access environment. For individuals considering a move to Beulaville, or those already residing there, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of reliable transportation options is crucial.

Moving to Beulaville, with its peaceful surroundings, may be appealing, but a realistic understanding of the healthcare access landscape is essential. This includes proactively planning for transportation to medical appointments, exploring all available options, and considering the potential financial implications. For those with lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease, the ability to access timely and effective care is paramount. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation of transportation resources is not just a practical consideration; it is a matter of health and well-being.

The ideal scenario would involve expanded public transportation options, increased ride-sharing availability, and readily accessible NEMT services. Until these improvements are realized, residents of Beulaville, and those considering moving there, must prioritize their transportation needs and develop a robust plan for navigating the healthcare system. The journey to healthcare, in this context, is a critical component of the fight against lung cancer.