27048, Stoneville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27048, Stoneville, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.96 percent of residents in 27048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Rockingham with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stoneville, NC (ZIP Code 27048)

The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care is a journey, one often complicated by geographic barriers. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for Stoneville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27048), examines the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment resources, focusing on transportation options, a crucial element influencing healthcare access. It's a consideration for anyone moving to Stoneville, seeking to understand the landscape of healthcare options.

Stoneville, a charming locale nestled in Rockingham County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare. Its relative remoteness, while contributing to its tranquility, necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation infrastructure and the availability of specialized medical services. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, considers the practical realities of reaching essential care facilities, especially for those facing the emotional and physical toll of a breast cancer diagnosis.

The primary mode of transportation for residents of Stoneville is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Driving times to key healthcare facilities are a critical factor. For comprehensive breast cancer care, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy, individuals in Stoneville will likely need to travel to larger medical centers.

The most direct route to such centers typically involves navigating the roadways. Heading south on US-220, you'll find yourself on a well-maintained highway that connects to the more extensive network of I-74. This route provides relatively easy access to Cone Health Cancer Center in Greensboro, a facility known for its advanced breast cancer treatment options. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific destination within Greensboro.

Alternatively, traveling east on NC-704 and connecting to US-29 offers another pathway to Greensboro. This route, while slightly longer in distance, may offer some relief from potential congestion on US-220, especially during peak commuting hours. The drive-time is similar, ranging from 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes.

For those seeking care in Winston-Salem, the journey typically involves heading west on NC-704, then connecting to US-311 and eventually to US-52. This route leads to Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, which has a comprehensive cancer center. The drive time to Winston-Salem is roughly 45 minutes to an hour, again depending on traffic.

Public transportation options in Stoneville are limited. Rockingham County does offer some transportation services, but these are primarily focused on providing rides for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The availability of these services for general medical appointments, including those related to breast cancer, is subject to eligibility requirements and scheduling constraints. It’s essential to contact the Rockingham County Transportation Department directly to inquire about specific routes, schedules, and ADA-compliant features.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the importance of personal vehicles or reliance on alternative modes of transportation. This situation is a significant factor impacting healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those who are unable to drive due to physical limitations or other circumstances.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Stoneville area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on the time of day and the demand for rides. For regular medical appointments, especially those requiring early morning or late-evening transportation, ride-sharing might not always be a dependable solution. The cost of frequent rides can also become a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and other medical transport providers may be available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate patients with mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services is typically higher than ride-sharing, and availability should be confirmed well in advance.

The Breast Cancer Score for Stoneville must also consider the availability of local primary care physicians and their ability to provide initial screenings and referrals. While Stoneville may have a few local medical practices, access to specialized breast cancer care necessitates travel to larger medical centers. This highlights the importance of establishing a strong referral network with a primary care physician who can guide patients through the diagnostic and treatment process.

The Breast Cancer Score also acknowledges the importance of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources can significantly improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Susan G. Komen Foundation offer resources and support networks, but access to these services might require travel to nearby cities.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Stoneville, NC (ZIP code 27048) reveals a mixed landscape. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the relative lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges to healthcare access. The drive times to comprehensive cancer centers in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides some alternatives, but their reliability and cost must be factored into the equation. The success of navigating this healthcare landscape hinges on establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician, understanding the available transportation options, and proactively planning for appointments and treatments. For those moving to Stoneville, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial in ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a vital tool for informed decision-making, emphasizing the critical interplay between transportation and healthcare access in this unique community.