27851, Lucama, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27851, Lucama, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.92 percent of residents in 27851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilson Medical Center with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27851

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a complex equation. It involves not only the quality of medical care, but also the accessibility of that care. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP code 27851 (Lucama, North Carolina) to assess the ease with which residents can access prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Lucama or already residing there.

The first consideration is the proximity to major medical facilities. In the context of prostate cancer, this means access to urologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical centers. The primary hub for specialized care is Wilson, approximately a 10-15 minute drive from the heart of Lucama. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage, offering efficient access to the Wilson Medical Center, a key provider in the region. The primary route is via US-301 South, a well-maintained highway that generally experiences moderate traffic flow.

For residents of Lucama, the ease of driving to Wilson is a positive factor in their prostate cancer score. The presence of a major medical center so close significantly reduces the time and stress associated with seeking care. This is especially crucial for individuals undergoing frequent appointments, such as those receiving radiation therapy or post-operative follow-ups.

Beyond Wilson, more specialized care might necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Raleigh or Greenville. Raleigh, home to the renowned Duke Health facilities and UNC Health, is approximately a 60-75 minute drive via I-95 North and US-64 East. Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, is about a 45-60 minute drive via US-264 East. These longer travel times, while still manageable, introduce additional considerations like traffic, fuel costs, and the potential for fatigue, impacting the overall healthcare access score.

Public transportation options in 27851 are limited. The primary mode is the Wilson Area Transit System (WATS). However, WATS operates primarily within the city limits of Wilson, and service to and from Lucama is infrequent and limited in scope. This lack of robust public transit significantly hinders healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, but information regarding the specific availability of ADA-compliant routes to and from Lucama is not readily available. This is a critical area for improvement, as it directly impacts the ability of vulnerable populations to access necessary medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilson and Lucama areas. However, their availability and affordability can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes or facing frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a factor to consider when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who are unable to drive themselves and lack access to other transportation options. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation in the Lucama area. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring that patients can safely and comfortably travel to and from their medical appointments. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited, particularly for those with specific insurance coverage or financial constraints.

The prostate cancer score for 27851 is a nuanced assessment. The proximity to Wilson Medical Center offers a significant advantage, providing relatively quick access to essential medical services. However, the limited public transportation options, the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services present challenges for some residents.

Moving to Lucama necessitates a careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals with prostate cancer or those at high risk should factor in the accessibility of healthcare when making their decision. The ability to drive to Wilson is a major plus, but the lack of robust public transit and the potential reliance on potentially costly ride-sharing or medical transport services must be considered.

The overall score is moderately positive. The ease of access to Wilson Medical Center is a significant benefit. However, the lack of alternative transportation options for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive presents a potential barrier to healthcare access. Further improvements in public transportation or subsidized ride-sharing programs could significantly enhance the healthcare access score for residents of 27851.