28713, Bryson City, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28713, Bryson City, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.45 percent of residents in 28713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dlp Swain County Hospital Llc with a distance of 2.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bryson City (ZIP Code 28713)

The crisp mountain air of Bryson City, North Carolina, promises a life of natural beauty and tranquility. Yet, for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of healthcare access. This write-up, tailored for ZIP code 28713, offers a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on timely and effective treatment. It's a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Bryson City, particularly those with pre-existing health concerns.

Our score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options, all vital for patients needing regular appointments, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and potential surgical interventions. The ability to reach these critical services quickly and reliably is paramount in the fight against lung cancer.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Care**

In Bryson City, the automobile reigns supreme. The primary routes to healthcare facilities are dictated by the terrain. The most direct route to larger hospitals, where specialized lung cancer care is most readily available, involves navigating the winding roads of Western North Carolina.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare is US-19/74, a vital link connecting Bryson City to Asheville and Cherokee. Driving east on US-19/74, you’ll encounter the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway, a modern highway designed to improve traffic flow. However, traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak tourist seasons and in the event of accidents.

For residents of Bryson City, the drive to Asheville, home to Mission Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately 70 miles. Under ideal conditions, this journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, this drive time can easily extend to two hours or more, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within the ZIP code. The route typically involves a combination of US-19/74, I-26, and US-25, each segment presenting its own potential for delays.

Closer options exist, such as Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City itself. However, this facility may not offer the full spectrum of lung cancer treatment options, potentially necessitating travel to larger hospitals. The drive to Cherokee, home to Cherokee Indian Hospital, is significantly shorter, around 30 minutes via US-19. However, the range of specialized cancer care may be limited.

The reliance on personal vehicles highlights a significant vulnerability. Patients who are unable to drive due to their illness or other limitations face considerable barriers to accessing care.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Safety Net**

Public transportation options in Bryson City and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of buses or other public transit is minimal, offering little support for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for patients. The absence of frequent, reliable, and accessible public transit underscores the need for alternative transportation strategies. For individuals without personal vehicles, the burden of arranging and paying for transportation falls heavily on family, friends, or other support systems.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Bryson City area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for patients facing financial strain due to medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. However, availability can be limited, and the cost can be substantial, potentially requiring prior arrangements and insurance verification.

Several medical transportation companies serve the region, including local providers and those operating regionally. These companies provide a crucial service, ensuring patients can reach their appointments. However, availability and cost remain significant factors.

**Healthcare Access and the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28713 reflects the challenges presented by the transportation landscape. While the natural beauty of Bryson City is undeniable, the limitations in transportation options create obstacles for patients seeking lung cancer treatment.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Specialized Care:** The distance to major medical centers, particularly those offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment, is a primary concern. The longer the drive time, the lower the score.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The lack of reliable public transit negatively impacts the score, as it limits access for individuals without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Options:** While these services offer a lifeline, their availability, cost, and reliability influence the score.
* **Accessibility:** The accessibility of transportation options, including wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations, is also factored in.

**Moving to Bryson City: A Consideration for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Bryson City, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for understanding the potential challenges of accessing healthcare.

Before relocating, potential residents should:

* **Assess their mobility and ability to drive:** Consider the impact of potential treatments and side effects on their ability to drive.
* **Research local medical transportation services:** Identify available providers and understand their costs and service areas.
* **Evaluate the availability of support networks:** Determine if family, friends, or other support systems can provide transportation assistance.
* **Factor in the cost of transportation:** Budget for ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and potential travel expenses.
* **Consult with healthcare providers:** Discuss the implications of the location on their care and treatment plans.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Bryson City, ZIP code 28713, highlights the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the limited transportation options present challenges for individuals battling lung cancer. Careful planning, proactive research, and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape are vital for ensuring timely and effective care. For those moving to Bryson City, the journey to healthcare requires careful navigation, demanding a proactive approach to overcome the hurdles presented by the terrain and the limitations of the transportation infrastructure.