27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.00 percent of residents in 27106 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Carolina Baptist Hospital with a distance of 4.10 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27106

Understanding healthcare access is crucial, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape for residents of ZIP code 27106 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease of reaching essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view of how residents can navigate their healthcare journey. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Winston-Salem, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective care.

The foundation of this score lies in the accessibility of breast cancer treatment centers. In 27106, the primary destinations for specialized care include Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center and Wake Forest Baptist Health. The drive times to these facilities are heavily influenced by the local road network.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries are Interstate 40 (I-40) and US Highway 52. Traveling from various points within 27106, a drive to Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center via I-40 typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour can significantly extend this, particularly during weekday mornings and late afternoons. Accessing Wake Forest Baptist Health often involves a similar route, possibly utilizing US-52 and then transitioning to local roads, with comparable travel times.

Navigating the local roads, such as Silas Creek Parkway and Hanes Mall Boulevard, can offer alternative routes, but they are often congested. Residents should familiarize themselves with these options to circumvent potential traffic bottlenecks. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the variability in drive times, acknowledging the impact of peak hours and potential delays.

Public transportation provides another layer of healthcare access. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) operates several bus routes that serve 27106 and connect to major medical facilities. Route 11, for example, provides service along major thoroughfares, potentially offering a direct link to both Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center and Wake Forest Baptist Health. Route 12 and 13 also provide service in the area.

However, the efficiency of public transit is a key factor. Bus schedules, frequency, and the potential for transfers can significantly impact the overall travel time. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the average travel time via public transit, including the time spent waiting for buses and the walking distance from bus stops to the healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical component of the public transit evaluation. The WSTA strives to ensure that its buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities. The score will reflect the availability of accessible routes and the ease of using public transit for those with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. The availability and cost of these services in 27106 are important considerations. The Breast Cancer Score will incorporate the average wait times and estimated costs for ride-sharing trips to the healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, also play a crucial role. Companies like First Transit and Access Transportation Services offer specialized transportation options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are often pre-booked and can provide a more tailored and supportive transportation experience. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the availability and accessibility of these services, including the ease of scheduling and the associated costs.

The Breast Cancer Score will also take into account the proximity of pharmacies and other support services within the 27106 ZIP code. Access to pharmacies for medication refills is a vital part of the treatment process. The score will consider the distance to pharmacies and the availability of pharmacy services, such as drive-through windows and home delivery.

Furthermore, the score will incorporate the availability of support groups and resources for breast cancer patients within the community. Access to emotional and social support is an integral part of the healing process. The score will reflect the proximity of support groups, counseling services, and other resources that can assist patients throughout their treatment journey.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the current transportation landscape. It will be regularly updated to reflect changes in public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of medical services. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare and a lower score reflecting greater transportation challenges.

The final score will be accompanied by a detailed analysis, providing specific recommendations for improving healthcare access within 27106. This may include suggestions for expanding public transit routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, and increasing the availability of medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Winston-Salem, the Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services within a specific ZIP code. It provides a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities that residents may encounter. The score will also be a valuable resource for healthcare providers and community organizations, helping them identify areas where improvements can be made to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for 27106 aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, considering the complexities of transportation. By integrating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, the score offers a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking breast cancer treatment. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Winston-Salem and for healthcare providers striving to improve patient care. The score will be a dynamic tool, continuously updated to reflect the evolving transportation landscape and ensure that all residents have the support they need on their healthcare journey.