28617, Crumpler, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28617, Crumpler, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 28617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crumpler, NC (ZIP Code 28617)

The crisp mountain air of Crumpler, North Carolina, offers a sense of tranquility, a haven for those seeking respite from the bustle of city life. Yet, beneath the serene facade lies a critical consideration for prospective residents: **healthcare access**, specifically concerning the diagnosis and treatment of serious illnesses like lung cancer. This write-up, designed for individuals considering **moving to Crumpler**, analyzes the **transportation** landscape and its impact on timely **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients within the 28617 ZIP code. We will assess the challenges and opportunities that arise when navigating the journey to potentially life-saving medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score for Crumpler, NC, is a multifaceted assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. These factors directly influence the speed and ease with which a patient can reach critical appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. Delays in accessing healthcare, particularly in the context of a rapidly progressing disease like lung cancer, can significantly impact prognosis and overall quality of life.

Crumpler, nestled in Ashe County, presents a unique transportation profile. The primary mode of travel is undoubtedly personal vehicle. The mountainous terrain and limited public transit infrastructure necessitate reliance on cars for most residents. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, including those offering specialized oncology services, are located in larger towns and cities, requiring travel on winding roads and highways.

The primary artery connecting Crumpler to the broader region is US-221. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. Heading south on US-221, the drive to Wilkesboro, approximately 30 miles away, and home to Wilkes Medical Center, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This facility offers general medical services, but specialized oncology care may require further travel.

For more advanced cancer treatment, patients often need to travel further. The drive to Winston-Salem, home to the comprehensive cancer center at Wake Forest Baptist Health, is approximately 80 miles, primarily via US-221 South to US-421 South. This journey, which can take up to two hours, presents a significant time commitment, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The drive on US-421 can be particularly challenging, with stretches of heavy traffic, especially near Winston-Salem.

Alternative routes, such as using NC-16 North to reach Interstate 77 and then heading south towards Winston-Salem, offer a slightly different driving experience. However, this route adds mileage and potential for traffic delays on I-77. The choice of route often depends on real-time traffic conditions and individual preference.

Public transportation options in Crumpler are extremely limited. Ashe County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The primary form of public transport is the Ashe County Transportation System, which offers demand-response service. This service requires advance booking and primarily caters to individuals with disabilities or those with limited mobility. The availability of this service for medical appointments is dependent on scheduling and capacity, making it unreliable for urgent or time-sensitive needs. The lack of frequent, scheduled routes presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. This is a crucial factor for anyone considering **moving to Crumpler**.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of ride-sharing services. While ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, their availability in Crumpler itself is variable. Demand is lower in rural areas, leading to potential delays in securing a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for long distances to medical centers, can also be a significant financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services typically involve wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services require pre-booking and can be costly, further impacting **healthcare access**. The availability of these services is a crucial factor for patients with mobility limitations or those who are unable to drive themselves.

For lung cancer patients, the need for timely and consistent access to medical care is paramount. The ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and undergo diagnostic tests without significant delays is crucial for effective management of the disease. The transportation challenges in Crumpler, including long drive times, limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing, can create substantial obstacles. These obstacles can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatments, and increased stress for patients and their families.

The Lung Cancer Score for Crumpler, therefore, reflects the inherent difficulties in accessing specialized oncology care. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, the limited public transit options, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This score is not intended to discourage individuals from **moving to Crumpler**, but rather to provide a realistic assessment of the **transportation** landscape and its implications for **healthcare access**.

For individuals considering **moving to Crumpler** and who have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. It is crucial to assess the proximity to specialized oncology centers, the feasibility of frequent travel, and the availability of reliable transportation options. Planning for potential delays, exploring alternative transportation solutions, and establishing a strong support network are vital for ensuring timely and effective medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a vital tool for informed decision-making. It highlights the need for proactive planning and emphasizes the importance of considering the practical realities of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. While Crumpler offers a tranquil setting, the challenges of **transportation** should be carefully weighed against the benefits of **moving to Crumpler** and its impact on **healthcare access**, particularly for those battling a serious illness like lung cancer. Careful planning, awareness of the **transportation** challenges, and proactive measures are key to ensuring that residents of 28617 receive the timely and comprehensive care they need.