28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.14 percent of residents in 28546 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Onslow Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28546)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long one, extending beyond the immediate medical concerns to encompass the practicalities of treatment. For residents of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28546), this includes the crucial factor of healthcare access. A "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a clinical metric, but rather a composite assessment of the transportation landscape, revealing the ease or difficulty of getting to vital medical appointments. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the healthcare access reality for those battling this disease.

The primary healthcare hub for lung cancer treatment in the area is undoubtedly the **Onslow Memorial Hospital** located in Jacksonville. The journey to the hospital, a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score, varies significantly depending on location within the 28546 ZIP code. For residents closer to the hospital, travel is relatively straightforward. However, for those residing further out, the commute can become a significant barrier, especially during peak traffic hours.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. From the heart of Jacksonville, the hospital is readily accessible, typically requiring a drive of under 10 minutes. Residents in neighborhoods off **Western Boulevard** or near **Hwy 17** enjoy similar proximity. However, those living in the more rural areas of the ZIP code, particularly along **Piney Green Road** or towards the outskirts of the city, may face drive times exceeding 20 minutes. This is a critical consideration for patients undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where the cumulative travel time can significantly impact their quality of life.

Public transportation, while available, presents a less appealing option for many. The **Onslow County Transit System** offers bus routes within Jacksonville. While the specific routes and schedules fluctuate, they generally serve major thoroughfares. The system does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial feature for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with lung cancer. However, the routes may not directly serve all areas of the 28546 ZIP code and frequency can be limited, making the commute to the hospital time-consuming and potentially exhausting for vulnerable patients.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers a more flexible transportation option. While these services are present in Jacksonville, their reliability and cost can vary. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could present a financial burden for patients. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas, may be limited, potentially causing delays or missed appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transport, specifically designed to cater to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and luggage. While they can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may not be readily available for last-minute appointments.

The Lung Cancer Score for 28546 is thus a complex calculation. It highlights the importance of location within the ZIP code, the limitations of public transit, and the variable nature of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

For individuals considering moving to Jacksonville, North Carolina, and particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory conditions, healthcare access should be a paramount consideration. Researching the proximity to Onslow Memorial Hospital, assessing the availability of reliable transportation options, and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential steps.

The journey to and from medical appointments is more than just a logistical challenge; it is a critical component of a patient's overall well-being. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, underscores the importance of a supportive environment, one that prioritizes healthcare access and minimizes the burdens of transportation. It's a call to action for the community, healthcare providers, and policymakers to collaboratively address the challenges and ensure that all residents of Jacksonville, NC, have equitable access to the care they need.