28519, Bridgeton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28519, Bridgeton, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.03 percent of residents in 28519 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carolina East Medical Center with a distance of 2.62 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bridgeton, NC (ZIP Code 28519)

The insidious shadow of lung cancer demands swift and informed action. For residents of Bridgeton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28519), timely access to quality healthcare is paramount. This analysis assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related services, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" that considers the intricate web of transportation options available, from the familiar hum of private vehicles to the potential complexities of public transit. This score provides a crucial snapshot of healthcare access, especially for those considering moving to Bridgeton or seeking a deeper understanding of the local medical landscape.

Bridgeton, a charming community nestled near the Neuse River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its relative isolation, while contributing to its tranquility, necessitates careful consideration of transportation infrastructure. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the ease with which individuals can reach essential services, including diagnostic imaging, oncology appointments, surgical centers, and supportive care facilities. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their well-being.

The primary artery for transportation in Bridgeton is US-17, a vital north-south corridor. Driving to New Bern, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities, is a straightforward journey. From Bridgeton, a drive south on US-17 typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route provides direct access to CarolinaEast Medical Center, a major healthcare provider equipped to handle various medical needs, including lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The drive is generally smooth, offering a relatively stress-free experience for patients and their families.

Another key route is NC-55, which connects Bridgeton to the east and west. This road offers alternative access to New Bern, though the travel time is often comparable to US-17. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the absence of significant public transportation options in the area necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

Public transportation options in Bridgeton are limited. The Craven Area Transportation System (CATS) provides bus services, but its routes and frequency are not specifically tailored for medical appointments. CATS primarily operates on fixed routes with limited service hours, potentially creating significant challenges for patients requiring timely access to healthcare. The accessibility of CATS buses for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) should be investigated.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the New Bern area. However, their reliability and cost-effectiveness in Bridgeton require careful consideration. Ride availability may fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in response to weather events. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including local ambulance services and private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can reach their appointments safely and comfortably.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the distance and travel time to key healthcare facilities. CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern is the primary destination for many residents of Bridgeton. The drive time, as mentioned, is generally between 15-20 minutes. Other potential destinations include specialized cancer centers or treatment facilities in larger cities, such as Greenville or Raleigh, which would involve significantly longer travel times.

The availability of support services is another critical factor. Lung cancer patients often require access to counseling, support groups, and palliative care. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance is crucial for patient well-being. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the proximity of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them.

For individuals considering moving to Bridgeton, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into healthcare access. It highlights the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation. It underscores the importance of considering the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport.

The score also emphasizes the need to research the specific healthcare needs of an individual. Patients with lung cancer may require frequent appointments, specialized treatments, and access to a range of support services. Understanding the availability of these resources is essential for making an informed decision about where to live.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. As healthcare providers adapt to the needs of their patients, and as transportation options evolve, the score will need to be updated. This score provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Bridgeton.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Bridgeton, NC (ZIP Code 28519) will be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. The score will consider the drive times, the limitations of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the proximity of key healthcare facilities and support services. This score will provide a valuable tool for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers seeking to improve healthcare access in this community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a crucial element in understanding the healthcare landscape in Bridgeton. It helps residents and potential newcomers navigate the complexities of healthcare access, making informed decisions about their well-being. This comprehensive assessment provides a valuable tool for anyone seeking to understand the healthcare resources available in this charming North Carolina community.