27047, Siloam, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27047, Siloam, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.68 percent of residents in 27047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Regional Hospital with a distance of 11.87 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27047

The serenity of Siloam, North Carolina (ZIP code 27047), offers a tranquil escape. Rolling hills, verdant pastures, and a close-knit community create an idyllic setting. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, the bucolic charm demands a critical evaluation. This analysis constructs a “Breast Cancer Score” for residents of 27047, focusing on transportation options and the ease of reaching essential medical facilities. This score isn't a definitive health assessment, but a crucial indicator of the practical challenges faced when navigating a breast cancer journey.

The cornerstone of this score is the accessibility of comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes not only diagnostic imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs) but also surgical oncology, radiation therapy, medical oncology (chemotherapy), and supportive services like physical therapy and mental health counseling. We will assess the available transportation options, factoring in drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative modes of transport.

The primary healthcare providers for Siloam residents are located in nearby towns. The closest hospital with a dedicated cancer center is Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital in Elkin, approximately 10-15 minutes away by car. Reaching Elkin necessitates navigating rural roads, primarily Highway 67 and occasionally Highway 601. Traffic is typically light, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact drive times. This short commute is a significant advantage for residents of 27047, contributing positively to their Breast Cancer Score.

Further afield, the larger medical centers in Winston-Salem, about a 45-60 minute drive, offer a wider range of specialized services. These include Wake Forest Baptist Health Comprehensive Cancer Center and Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. The journey to Winston-Salem involves traversing Highway 67, merging onto US-421, and then navigating city traffic. The longer commute to these facilities is a significant consideration.

Public transportation options in 27047 are limited. The Yadkin County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to anyone, but availability is limited, and the service is primarily designed for medical appointments and essential errands. There is no fixed-route public transit connecting Siloam to major medical centers. The lack of readily accessible public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score, especially for those unable to drive or lacking reliable personal transportation. ADA accessibility is available on request, but the overall limitations of the YCTA make it a less-than-ideal option for frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to medical appointments can be a financial burden, adding another layer of complexity for patients. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, its limitations impact the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans or other specialized companies, are available for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive and may require pre-authorization or insurance coverage. The availability of medical transportation improves the Breast Cancer Score, but the financial and logistical considerations must be carefully weighed.

For residents considering moving to Siloam, the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access are critical factors. The proximity to Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing necessitate careful planning. The Breast Cancer Score for Siloam reflects this reality.

The Breast Cancer Score for 27047 is a dynamic metric. It is impacted by several factors, including the patient's mobility, financial resources, and support network. The score is not a static number but a reflection of the challenges and opportunities faced when navigating breast cancer care.

The score is built on the following elements:

* **Proximity to Comprehensive Cancer Centers:** Proximity to Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital is a positive factor, while the longer commutes to Winston-Salem hospitals are negative factors.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** The lack of a robust public transit system is a significant negative factor.
* **Reliability of Ride-Sharing Services:** The variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services are a moderate factor.
* **Accessibility of Medical Transportation:** The availability of specialized medical transportation services is a positive factor, though the cost and pre-authorization requirements are negative factors.
* **Overall, the Breast Cancer Score for 27047 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Elkin is a strength, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The score underscores the importance of planning, access to support, and the need for proactive healthcare navigation for residents of Siloam.**

The Breast Cancer Score is a valuable tool for residents of 27047, highlighting the practical realities of accessing healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of considering transportation when making healthcare decisions and planning for the future. As the community of Siloam grows, it is vital to advocate for improved transportation infrastructure and increased access to healthcare services, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can receive the care they need. The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough; access to reliable transportation should never be an added burden.