25165, Racine, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25165, Racine, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.16 percent of residents in 25165 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boone Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 25165

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of ZIP Code 25165, nestled in the heart of Racine, Wisconsin, the journey to quality care is a complex equation, intricately woven with the threads of transportation options. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the accessibility of critical healthcare resources, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions, all vital for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.

The primary concern for anyone facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis is speed. Early detection and intervention are paramount. This means efficient transportation to specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities. The geography of 25165 presents a challenge, requiring careful consideration of the available transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Highway and Road Network**

The backbone of transportation in 25165 is the road network. The most direct route to major healthcare providers often involves navigating the well-traveled arteries of the region. For instance, reaching Froedtert South Hospital in Pleasant Prairie, a significant healthcare hub, typically involves a drive along **Highway 32 (Green Bay Road)**, the primary north-south thoroughfare. Expect drive times to vary considerably depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. A typical drive could range from 20 to 40 minutes, potentially longer during rush hour congestion.

Similarly, access to Aurora Medical Center – Mount Pleasant, another key facility, involves navigating **Highway 31 (Green Bay Road)** and potentially **Highway 20 (Washington Avenue)**. This journey, while shorter in distance, can also be susceptible to traffic delays, with drive times generally falling between 15 and 30 minutes.

The secondary roads, like **Spring Street** and **Douglas Avenue**, offer alternative routes, though they may involve more stop-and-go traffic and potentially add to the overall travel time. These roads are critical for local travel, but their impact on healthcare access is more nuanced.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Racine, while present, offers a limited scope for healthcare access. The Racine Transit System (RTS) provides bus routes, but the coverage and frequency may not be ideal for patients needing frequent appointments or facing mobility challenges. The RTS operates several routes that traverse the 25165 area, but the direct routes to major hospitals are often indirect, requiring transfers and potentially adding significant travel time.

Consider the challenges for a patient needing to reach Froedtert South Hospital. The RTS would likely involve a combination of routes, potentially including a transfer, which could extend the journey to over an hour, excluding any waiting time. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment, is a crucial factor. The RTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, but the availability and reliability of these services are essential considerations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. While convenient, the cost can be a barrier for some, especially with the frequent trips required for cancer treatment. However, they offer a degree of flexibility and can often provide faster access than public transit. The availability of these services in the 25165 area is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could impact affordability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like Logisticare or Modivcare, often contracted by insurance providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be invaluable for patients who cannot drive or do not have access to reliable transportation. However, availability, scheduling, and potential limitations based on insurance coverage must be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 25165 is not a single number but a composite assessment. It weighs the factors of drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The score reflects the overall ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, including:

* **Diagnostic Imaging Centers:** Locations offering CT scans, PET scans, and other crucial diagnostic tools.
* **Oncologists and Pulmonologists:** Specialists essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Facilities equipped for radiation therapy.
* **Chemotherapy Infusion Centers:** Locations where chemotherapy treatments are administered.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources.

The score also considers the patient's individual needs, including mobility, financial constraints, and the availability of caregivers.

**Moving to Racine: The Transportation Consideration**

For individuals considering a move to Racine, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or a family history of the disease, the "Lung Cancer Score" is a crucial factor. While Racine offers a pleasant living environment, the transportation landscape directly impacts healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the proximity of their chosen residence to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and their individual needs.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Accessibility**

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the complexities of healthcare access in 25165. While the area offers a range of transportation options, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport create challenges for some residents. Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" requires a multifaceted approach. This includes exploring the expansion of public transit routes, advocating for increased funding for medical transportation services, and promoting community-based initiatives that support patients in navigating the healthcare system. Ultimately, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare is a shared responsibility, demanding collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and the community. It’s a vital consideration for those moving to Racine, and a constant focus for those already there.