28524, Davis, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28524, Davis, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.71 percent of residents in 28524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 17.44 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Davis, NC (ZIP Code 28524)

The journey to effective lung cancer care is multifaceted, involving timely diagnosis, specialized treatment, and ongoing support. For residents of Davis, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28524), the accessibility of these crucial elements is deeply intertwined with the local transportation landscape. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, explores the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for those facing this challenging disease, particularly when moving to Davis.

Davis, a coastal community, presents unique transportation considerations. The primary challenge lies in its relative remoteness from major medical centers. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are concentrated in larger cities, necessitating travel. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the complexities of this commute, offering insights into potential obstacles and available solutions.

**The Road to Recovery: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many Davis residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare. The most direct route to specialized cancer care often involves navigating the region's highways and roads. The drive time to the nearest major cancer centers, such as those in New Bern or Jacksonville, is a critical factor in the "Lung Cancer Score."

The journey typically begins on NC-24, a vital east-west artery. Heading west on NC-24, the drive to New Bern, home to CarolinaEast Medical Center, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This route involves traversing rural stretches, potentially adding stress for patients already burdened by their diagnosis. The road quality is generally good, but weather conditions, especially during hurricane season, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Alternatively, for those seeking care in Jacksonville, the route involves traveling north on NC-24, then merging onto US-17. This drive, also approximately an hour in length, offers access to Onslow Memorial Hospital and other healthcare providers. While US-17 is a major highway, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant concern, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects these drive times, recognizing that longer commutes can lead to delayed care, increased fatigue, and added financial strain due to fuel costs and potential parking fees. The availability of ample, accessible parking at these facilities is also factored into the score, as ease of access is paramount.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the Davis area are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The absence of a robust public transit system directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," as it restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

The closest public transit options are typically found in larger cities like New Bern or Jacksonville, but these services may not extend to Davis. Even if available, the routes are infrequent and may not align with the often-demanding schedules of cancer treatment.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. While public transit vehicles are generally equipped with features like ramps and lifts, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary. For patients with mobility issues or undergoing treatment that affects their physical capabilities, the complexities of public transit can exacerbate their challenges.

The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the limitations of public transit in this area, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions to ensure equitable healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for those who cannot drive. However, the availability of these services in Davis and the surrounding areas is variable. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing, recognizing that surge pricing during peak hours or limited driver availability can pose challenges.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Care Ride offer specialized transportation services, often equipped with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the availability, cost, and reliability of these services, recognizing their importance for patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that requires specialized assistance.

The integration of ride-sharing and medical transport services into the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding the financial and logistical aspects of these options. The cost of these services can be a significant burden for patients, and the need to book rides in advance requires careful planning.

**The Impact of Moving to Davis**

For individuals considering moving to Davis, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a crucial perspective on healthcare access. The remoteness of the area and the limitations of public transportation must be weighed against the potential benefits of a coastal lifestyle.

Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of transportation options and assess their ability to manage the commute to cancer care facilities. This includes evaluating their financial resources to cover transportation costs and their ability to secure reliable transportation for appointments and follow-up care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making, empowering individuals to make choices that align with their healthcare needs and overall well-being.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Access**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Davis, NC (ZIP Code 28524) reveals the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services pose challenges for those facing lung cancer.

Enhancing healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for improved public transit options, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and exploring innovative solutions like telehealth to reduce the need for frequent travel.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Davis, regardless of their transportation capabilities, have equitable access to timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. This "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support the well-being of the community.