28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 28357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 9.60 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a crucial factor in a patient's well-being. For residents of Lumber Bridge, North Carolina (ZIP code 28357), this journey involves a complex interplay of transportation options, distance to medical facilities, and the availability of specialized care. This write-up provides a comprehensive analysis, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment of healthcare access within this specific geographic area. This will help someone considering moving to Lumber Bridge understand the realities of healthcare access.

The primary consideration for prostate cancer patients is timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This necessitates evaluating the available transportation infrastructure and the proximity of relevant medical facilities. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will consider these factors, providing a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing patients in Lumber Bridge.

**Roadways and Drive Times**

Lumber Bridge is a rural community, and personal vehicles are the dominant mode of transportation. The availability of a reliable vehicle is paramount for accessing healthcare. Several major roadways influence healthcare access for residents.

The most direct route to major medical centers often involves Interstate 95 (I-95). Traveling north on I-95 provides access to Fayetteville, NC, home to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a regional healthcare provider. The drive to Fayetteville from Lumber Bridge typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a relatively manageable commute for routine appointments and some treatments.

Alternatively, heading south on I-95 offers access to larger medical facilities in South Carolina, such as those in Florence. However, this drive is significantly longer, potentially exceeding an hour, which could be a deterrent for frequent visits.

US Highway 401 is another crucial artery, running through Lumber Bridge and connecting it to surrounding towns. This highway offers access to local clinics and physician offices, potentially providing more immediate care for initial screenings or follow-up appointments. Drive times along US 401 are generally shorter, with Fayetteville accessible in about 45 minutes.

Navigating these roads requires careful planning, particularly during peak hours. Traffic congestion on I-95 can significantly extend travel times, impacting a patient's ability to reach appointments on schedule.

**Public Transportation Challenges**

Public transportation options in Lumber Bridge are limited. Robeson County, where Lumber Bridge is located, has a public transit system, but its service is sparse. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

The Robeson County Area Transit System (RCATS) offers limited routes, and their schedules may not align with the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but the frequency of service is a major concern.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which can be costly and inconvenient. This is a critical factor in the "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. The lack of transportation options for those unable to drive can severely limit healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lumber Bridge area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. This means that securing a ride may require advance planning and could be subject to delays.

Medical transportation services are available, but their cost can be a significant burden. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. They often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive for some patients, especially those requiring frequent treatments.

The availability of these services provides a crucial lifeline for some, but their limitations must be acknowledged. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will reflect the impact of these services on healthcare access.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialists**

The proximity of specialized medical facilities is a critical determinant of healthcare access for prostate cancer patients. The primary healthcare provider in the area is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville. This hospital offers a range of services, including urology and oncology departments.

Access to specialists, such as urologists and radiation oncologists, is essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance is a key factor in the "Prostate Cancer Score."

The travel time to these specialists, and the availability of appointments, are critical considerations. Delays in accessing specialized care can negatively impact patient outcomes.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lumber Bridge (ZIP code 28357) would consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Medical Centers:** The average drive time to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (30-45 minutes) is relatively manageable.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The limited public transit options significantly reduce the score.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some support, but their cost and reliability limitations are considered.
* **Specialist Availability:** Access to urologists and oncologists at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a positive factor.

**Overall, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lumber Bridge would likely be moderate.** While the drive time to major medical centers is reasonable, the lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on potentially costly ride-sharing or medical transport services present challenges.

**Conclusion: Moving to Lumber Bridge**

For individuals considering moving to Lumber Bridge, particularly those with a history of prostate cancer or other health concerns, a careful assessment of healthcare access is essential. The availability of reliable transportation, the proximity of specialized medical facilities, and the affordability of healthcare services are crucial factors to consider.

While Lumber Bridge offers a rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options and the need to travel for specialized care should be carefully evaluated. Those considering moving to Lumber Bridge should research the specific healthcare needs and assess the available resources to ensure that their healthcare requirements can be met.