31321, Pembroke, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.57 percent of residents in 31321 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evans Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.56 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pembroke, GA (ZIP Code 31321)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding not just expert medical care but also a swift and reliable means of reaching it. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Pembroke, Georgia (ZIP code 31321), a crucial factor in healthcare access. We'll examine the practicalities of getting to essential appointments, from initial screenings to ongoing treatments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This is particularly relevant for those contemplating moving to Pembroke, as the ease of accessing healthcare is a significant quality-of-life consideration.

Pembroke, a charming city nestled in Bryan County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. While the community offers a close-knit atmosphere, its proximity to larger medical centers is a key factor. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the ability to navigate this landscape becomes paramount. This score will help assess the feasibility of accessing vital healthcare services, potentially influencing decisions about where to live and how to manage the journey to wellness.

The primary mode of transportation in Pembroke is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are critical. Heading east on US-80, the primary artery connecting Pembroke to Savannah, provides access to several medical facilities. The drive to Memorial Health University Medical Center, a well-regarded hospital with a comprehensive cancer program, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This journey involves navigating US-80 and potentially I-16, especially if one is traveling from the northern part of Pembroke.

Another viable option is Candler Hospital, also in Savannah, which offers cancer care. The drive time is similar, roughly 40 to 55 minutes, following US-80. This route is generally straightforward, but traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact the commute. For those residing in the southern parts of Pembroke, the drive to Savannah might involve navigating local roads like GA-144 to reach US-80.

The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership and the potential challenges for those without access to a private car. The “Breast Cancer Score” considers the burden placed on patients and their families who must navigate these routes repeatedly for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

Public transportation options in Pembroke are limited. The Coastal Regional Commission provides some transit services, but they are primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. These services, while available, are not specifically designed for frequent medical appointments and may not be a reliable option for daily or weekly trips. Further research is needed to determine if ADA-accessible vehicles are available and the extent of their coverage within Pembroke and to Savannah medical centers.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the necessity of exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Savannah and may be accessible in Pembroke, though their availability and cost can fluctuate. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the financial implications of relying on these services for regular medical appointments, particularly for patients undergoing lengthy treatment regimens.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans or CareRide specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services provide door-to-door assistance and can be a valuable resource for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability and cost of these services in the Pembroke area, recognizing their crucial role in ensuring healthcare access.

The considerations extend beyond the immediate drive times and available transportation options. The "Breast Cancer Score" also factors in the availability of parking at the medical facilities, the potential for traffic delays, and the overall accessibility of the healthcare environment. For example, the presence of valet parking, accessible entrances, and clear signage can significantly improve the patient experience.

The choice of where to seek treatment also influences the transportation equation. Smaller clinics closer to Pembroke might offer some services, but they may not have the comprehensive resources of larger cancer centers. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the trade-off between convenience and the level of care available.

The emotional and physical toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is significant. The added stress of navigating transportation challenges can exacerbate these difficulties. The "Breast Cancer Score" emphasizes the need for a holistic approach, considering not only the practical aspects of getting to appointments but also the overall patient experience.

For individuals considering moving to Pembroke, this assessment provides a valuable perspective. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide an objective evaluation of the transportation landscape, empowering potential residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. The evaluation considers the drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and medical transportation options. This allows a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in accessing crucial breast cancer care.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Pembroke (ZIP code 31321) highlights the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternatives, their cost and availability must be carefully considered. For those contemplating moving to Pembroke, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for ensuring timely and reliable access to essential breast cancer care.