27239, Denton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27239, Denton, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.12 percent of residents in 27239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Randolph Hospital with a distance of 17.30 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27239

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is more than just a medical appointment. It’s an odyssey shaped by the availability and accessibility of transportation. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27239 (Denton, NC), delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can access vital breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This is especially relevant for those considering **moving to Denton**, as understanding these factors is crucial for informed decisions.

The primary challenge in assessing **healthcare access** within 27239 lies in its rural character. Denton is nestled in Davidson County, a region characterized by sprawling distances and limited public transportation options. This geographical reality directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, making reliable **transportation** a critical component of successful healthcare navigation.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transport for medical appointments in Denton is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are a significant consideration.

**Lexington Medical Center**, approximately 15 miles away, presents a relatively manageable drive. Residents of 27239 typically navigate this route via **NC-47**, a primary artery connecting Denton to Lexington. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Denton.

**Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center**, roughly 18 miles away, offers another option. The journey involves traveling along **NC-109** and potentially connecting to **I-85** for a portion of the trip. This route, while slightly longer, might offer faster travel times depending on traffic conditions. Drive times here average 25-40 minutes.

For more specialized care, patients may need to travel further afield. **Wake Forest Baptist Health – Lexington Medical Park**, located in Lexington, provides additional services and is accessible via NC-47. **Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center** in Winston-Salem, a comprehensive cancer center, represents a more significant undertaking. The drive, primarily via **I-85** and **US-52**, could take upwards of an hour, especially during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time adds considerable stress and logistical challenges for patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in 27239 are severely limited. Davidson County does not operate a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of readily available public transport significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive, lack access to a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to their treatment.

The nearest regional transit options might involve connections to **Davidson County Transit**, though service is often limited to specific routes and may not directly serve medical facilities. Riders may need to rely on multiple transfers and extended travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on any available public transport is a crucial factor. While Davidson County Transit aims to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage can still pose significant barriers for individuals with mobility challenges, further impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transport, especially for those unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Denton can be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or medical emergencies can significantly increase costs. This variability impacts the reliability of ride-share as a primary mode of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like **Care Ride** and **FirstLight Home Care** provide non-emergency medical transport. These services can be a lifeline for patients who cannot drive or lack other transportation options. However, the cost of these services, which is often not covered by insurance, can be a significant financial burden.

**The Impact on the Breast Cancer Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 27239 is inherently affected by the transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-share services create significant challenges for patients.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. The presence of local support groups, cancer resource centers, and patient navigation programs can help mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These resources can provide assistance with transportation, financial aid, and emotional support, improving the overall patient experience.

**Moving to Denton and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering **moving to Denton**, the Breast Cancer Score should be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a family history of the disease, should carefully assess the transportation options and the proximity to quality healthcare facilities.

Understanding the limitations of public transport, the potential reliance on personal vehicles, and the costs associated with ride-share or medical transport is essential. It is also important to investigate the availability of support services and patient navigation programs within the community.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 27239 reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. While the region offers access to medical facilities, the limitations in transportation create significant hurdles for patients. Improving public transport, expanding ride-share availability, and increasing access to affordable medical transportation services would significantly enhance the Breast Cancer Score and improve the overall quality of life for residents of Denton and the surrounding areas. This is a crucial consideration for anyone considering **moving to Denton** and seeking comprehensive healthcare.