28683, Thurmond, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.76 percent of residents in 28683 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.72 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Transportation and Healthcare in Thurmond, NC (ZIP Code 28683)**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and the promise of a simpler life in Thurmond, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this community offers a respite from the frenetic pace of urban existence. However, for those considering a move to Thurmond, particularly those with health concerns like lung cancer, a crucial aspect of the decision-making process involves assessing **healthcare access**. This analysis, a “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP code 28683, delves into the realities of **transportation** options, aiming to provide a clear picture of the journey from home to vital medical care.

The very essence of Thurmond’s charm, its remoteness, presents a primary challenge: **transportation**. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in larger towns, requiring travel across winding mountain roads. For individuals battling lung cancer, the ability to reach appointments, treatments, and emergency services promptly is paramount. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services to assess the accessibility of healthcare.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary arteries connecting Thurmond to the outside world are US-21 and NC-18. Driving to Wilkes Regional Medical Center in North Wilkesboro, the closest hospital with oncology services, involves a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey primarily utilizes US-21 South, a road that can be subject to delays during peak hours or inclement weather. The route is generally well-maintained, but mountain roads can be challenging, especially for those experiencing fatigue or mobility issues.

For more specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Winston-Salem, approximately a 1 hour and 30-minute to 2-hour drive via US-421 South. This route involves navigating a stretch of US-421, a busy highway, potentially adding to the stress of the journey. The distance and time commitment are significant factors in the Lung Cancer Score, as they impact the frequency and ease with which patients can access vital treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Thurmond are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system serving the immediate area. The absence of reliable public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is particularly concerning for those undergoing treatment, as side effects like fatigue and nausea can make driving unsafe.

The lack of public transit severely impacts the Lung Cancer Score. It forces patients to rely heavily on personal vehicles, family members, or more expensive alternatives like ride-sharing or medical transport services. The absence of accessible, affordable public transit underscores the need for careful planning and consideration when evaluating the suitability of Thurmond for individuals with lung cancer.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Thurmond can be inconsistent. Wait times can be longer, and the cost of rides can be substantial, especially for longer trips to Winston-Salem. This reliance on ride-sharing adds an element of uncertainty to the process of accessing healthcare, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in treatment.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available, but they can be costly. Ambulance services are reserved for emergencies, while NEMT services can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited insurance coverage.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

The lack of public transit, coupled with the potential for long drive times, raises concerns about **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility. Individuals with mobility limitations may find it difficult to navigate the terrain and the available **transportation** options. The absence of accessible public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can create additional challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The Lung Cancer Score for Thurmond, NC (ZIP code 28683) is significantly impacted by the challenges of **transportation**. The remoteness of the area, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services, creates a complex landscape for individuals seeking **healthcare access**.

The score reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate to long drive times to the nearest hospitals and medical centers.
* **Public Transit:** Non-existent public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Limited availability and potential for high costs.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but expensive.
* **ADA Accessibility:** Limited accessibility due to the lack of public transit and the terrain.

For individuals considering **moving to Thurmond**, especially those with lung cancer or other health conditions, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of factoring in the costs, time commitments, and potential challenges associated with accessing medical care. Careful planning, including exploring all available options and establishing a reliable **transportation** plan, is crucial for ensuring timely access to vital treatments and support services.