28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.73 percent of residents in 28540 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Onslow Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.36 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28540)

The diagnosis of lung cancer brings with it a cascade of complex emotions and practical considerations. Among the most critical is access to timely and effective healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina, this access is intricately woven with the threads of transportation. Understanding the nuances of getting to vital medical appointments, especially for those facing the challenges of lung cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" by evaluating the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It's designed to illuminate the realities of healthcare access in this specific area, assisting individuals in making informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Jacksonville, NC, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The sprawling nature of the city and the limited public transportation options underscore this dependence. For residents of 28540, the journey to healthcare often begins on the familiar asphalt of **US Highway 17**, the main artery running north-south through Jacksonville. This route connects to essential medical facilities, including the Onslow Memorial Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area. Drive times to the hospital can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, which are particularly heavy during peak commuting hours.

Beyond US 17, access to specialized care may necessitate travel on other key roadways. **Western Boulevard**, another major thoroughfare, provides access to various medical offices and clinics. **Piney Green Road** offers an alternative route, though it may involve navigating more residential areas and potentially encountering slower traffic. These roads, while offering connectivity, can present challenges for those with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that might make driving difficult.

The drive times to Onslow Memorial Hospital from various points within 28540 are generally manageable, ranging from 5 to 20 minutes depending on the specific location and traffic flow. However, these times can be significantly extended during rush hour, inclement weather, or due to unforeseen accidents. This variability underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative transportation options.

Public transportation in Jacksonville, while present, offers limited utility for those requiring frequent medical appointments. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) operates several routes within the city, but its coverage is not comprehensive. The routes are numbered, but route information is not readily available. The JTS buses may offer some degree of ADA accessibility, but it is essential to confirm specific features, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, when planning a trip. The frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not align with the demands of frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jacksonville. Their availability, however, can fluctuate depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. This can pose a challenge for those needing immediate transportation or those living in more remote areas of the zip code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services are available in Jacksonville, providing specialized transportation for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services typically involve trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate medical equipment and provide a comfortable and safe journey. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and it is crucial to research and pre-arrange transportation well in advance of medical appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Jacksonville, NC, and who have concerns about healthcare access, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents should assess the proximity of their chosen location to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 28540 is not a single numerical value but a holistic assessment based on the factors outlined above. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, the need for reliable transportation, and the potential challenges faced by those battling lung cancer. The score is lower for those without access to a personal vehicle and higher for those who can drive or have reliable access to transportation.

The challenges of navigating the transportation landscape in Jacksonville, NC, highlight the importance of community support. Family members, friends, and support groups can play a crucial role in providing transportation assistance, offering emotional support, and advocating for improved healthcare access. The availability of resources, such as patient navigators, who can assist in coordinating transportation and navigating the healthcare system, is also vital.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28540 underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. It serves as a reminder that the journey to recovery is not just a medical one but also a logistical one, requiring careful planning, resourcefulness, and a supportive community. For those facing the challenges of lung cancer, understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely access to life-saving treatments and supportive care.