28358, Lumberton, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.50 percent of residents in 28358 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumberton, NC (ZIP Code 28358)

Considering a move to Lumberton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28358) and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This report provides a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating transportation options and their impact on accessing urological care. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a nuanced perspective on navigating the healthcare landscape in this region.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a holistic assessment, considering the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities specializing in prostate cancer. Factors include travel time, transportation reliability, accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, and the availability of various transportation modes. This analysis aims to equip you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs when considering a move to or within Lumberton.

Lumberton, the county seat of Robeson County, presents a unique transportation environment. While the city offers a blend of rural and suburban settings, healthcare access is primarily centered around specific locations. Understanding the transportation dynamics is crucial for anyone requiring regular medical appointments, especially for a condition like prostate cancer, which often necessitates frequent check-ups and potential treatment.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in Lumberton are Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 74. I-95, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to larger medical centers in Fayetteville (approximately 45 minutes north) and Wilmington (about 1.5 hours south). US 74, an east-west route, connects Lumberton to surrounding towns and cities, including Whiteville (about 30 minutes east) and Laurinburg (around 40 minutes west).

Reaching local healthcare providers within Lumberton is typically straightforward. The Southeastern Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in the area, is easily accessible via various local roads, including Pine Street, Godwin Avenue, and Elm Street. Drive times within Lumberton are generally short, usually under 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, travel to specialists or facilities outside of Lumberton can significantly increase travel time.

For prostate cancer care, you'll likely need to consider specialists. The Southeastern Regional Medical Center has urology services, but more specialized treatments or advanced diagnostic procedures might require travel to larger medical centers in Fayetteville or Wilmington. This necessitates careful planning, considering traffic and potential delays. The drive to Fayetteville, even though it's the closest option, can be impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Lumberton are limited. The Robeson County Area Transportation System (RCATS) provides fixed-route and demand-response services. While RCATS offers a valuable service for those without personal vehicles, its routes and schedules might not always align perfectly with medical appointment times.

RCATS operates on a limited schedule, and routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. RCATS vehicles are ADA-compliant, offering features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, pre-booking and advance planning are essential to ensure a smooth and timely journey to your appointments.

The frequency of service and the potential for delays can impact the "Prostate Cancer Score." Patients with prostate cancer often require frequent appointments, making reliable and efficient transportation paramount. The limitations of public transit in Lumberton necessitate exploring alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lumberton, offering a convenient alternative to public transit or personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This variability must be factored into the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Lumberton area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

Medical transport services are especially valuable for individuals with mobility challenges or those who cannot drive. They can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those with prostate cancer who may experience fatigue or other side effects from treatment. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve associated costs.

**Healthcare Access and the "Prostate Cancer Score":**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lumberton (ZIP code 28358) reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While local healthcare providers are accessible within the city, accessing specialized care or advanced treatments may require longer travel times. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services.

The score also considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves. Are they equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges? Do they offer convenient parking? Are appointment scheduling and communication efficient and patient-friendly? These factors are crucial for a positive healthcare experience.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators or transportation assistance programs offered by healthcare providers, can significantly improve the "Prostate Cancer Score." These programs can help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate transportation, and manage their appointments effectively.

**Moving to Lumberton: Considerations for Prostate Cancer Care:**

If you are considering moving to Lumberton and have concerns about prostate cancer care, it's essential to proactively research local healthcare providers, assess transportation options, and plan for potential travel needs. Contacting the Southeastern Regional Medical Center or other local healthcare facilities to inquire about urology services, specialists, and patient support programs is highly recommended.

Evaluate the reliability and cost-effectiveness of various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Consider the potential impact of traffic and travel times on your appointment schedule.

Explore the availability of support services, such as patient navigators or transportation assistance programs, that can enhance your healthcare experience. Prioritize healthcare access in your decision-making process, and be prepared to adapt your transportation strategy based on your individual needs and circumstances.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lumberton is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and your individual circumstances. By understanding the transportation dynamics and proactively planning for your healthcare needs, you can ensure that moving to Lumberton does not compromise your access to quality prostate cancer care. This comprehensive understanding of transportation and healthcare access empowers you to make informed decisions about moving to Lumberton.