28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.00 percent of residents in 28528 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 32.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 12.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gloucester, NC (ZIP Code 28528)

Considering a move to Gloucester, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28528)? Alongside the charm of coastal living, it’s crucial to assess healthcare access, particularly if you're concerned about lung cancer risk factors or require regular medical attention. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The proximity to healthcare, and the ease of getting there, is paramount. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. This information is vital for anyone considering a move, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer. We will delve into the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, ensuring informed decision-making for your move.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

Gloucester, a community nestled along the Crystal Coast, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary artery connecting Gloucester to major healthcare providers is **NC-24**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way west. Drive times to the nearest significant medical facilities are a key component of our score.

For routine check-ups and general care, **Carteret Health Care** in Morehead City is a likely destination. The drive along NC-24, typically taking around 20-30 minutes, is relatively straightforward, offering a manageable commute for residents. Traffic is generally light, but can increase during peak tourist seasons, particularly in summer.

Specialized care, including oncology services, often necessitates travel to larger facilities. **Vidant Medical Center** in Greenville, approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute drive via NC-24 West and US-17 South, provides comprehensive cancer treatment. This longer journey underscores the importance of planning and considering potential delays.

Alternatively, **UNC Health Carteret** in Morehead City, accessible via NC-24, offers specialized care, including oncology, and is a shorter drive. The drive time to UNC Health Carteret is similar to Carteret Health Care, approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a more convenient option.

Considering the potential for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, the drive times become critical. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial. The ability to quickly access medical care can significantly impact outcomes.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Gloucester and the surrounding areas are limited. The **Carteret County Transportation System** offers a demand-response service. This system, while available, requires advance booking and operates on a limited schedule. The availability of this service for medical appointments is a factor in our score.

The routes and schedules are subject to change, so confirming the availability and suitability of this service for your specific needs is essential. The system may not be ideal for urgent situations or frequent appointments. ADA accessibility is a key consideration; inquire about the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations when booking.

Public transit, though limited, provides an alternative for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. This service helps improve the overall healthcare access score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing another transportation option. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments may not be advisable.

Medical transport services, such as **Care Ride** or **First Choice Medical Transport**, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. They are particularly valuable for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those unable to drive themselves.

These services, while often more expensive than ride-sharing, provide a reliable option for accessing healthcare. The availability and cost of these services factor into our overall score.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Context**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Gloucester (28528) is influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable for routine care, are significantly longer for specialized treatments. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of all available transportation options.

**Recommendations for Moving to Gloucester**

For individuals considering a move to Gloucester with lung cancer risk factors or existing health concerns, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential.

* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare:** While Gloucester offers coastal charm, consider the drive times to healthcare facilities when choosing a home.
* **Assess your transportation needs:** Determine your ability to drive and the frequency of medical appointments.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Research and pre-arrange medical transport services if needed.
* **Plan for potential delays:** Factor in potential traffic delays, especially during peak tourist seasons.
* **Consult with your healthcare provider:** Discuss your transportation needs with your doctor and seek their recommendations.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Gloucester, NC (28528), presents a unique blend of coastal living and healthcare access. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable for routine care, specialized treatments may require longer journeys. The limited public transit and variable ride-sharing availability highlight the importance of careful planning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Gloucester reflects the need for proactive transportation planning. By understanding the available options and considering individual needs, residents can ensure timely access to healthcare and make informed decisions about moving to this coastal community. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net for those who need it. Ultimately, a move to Gloucester requires a balanced perspective, weighing the benefits of coastal living against the practicalities of healthcare access.