27522, Creedmoor, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27522, Creedmoor, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.50 percent of residents in 27522 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Regional Hospital with a distance of 5.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Creedmoor (ZIP Code 27522)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not just about the treatment itself, but also about the accessibility of that treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for Creedmoor, North Carolina (ZIP code 27522), delves into the crucial element of transportation, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical resources. Considering factors like drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, we aim to paint a realistic picture of healthcare access for those living in and moving to Creedmoor.

Creedmoor, a charming town nestled in Granville County, offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality, however, creates both opportunities and challenges when it comes to healthcare access. While the area boasts a growing population and a desire for quality living, the availability of specialized medical services, especially those related to breast cancer care, is largely concentrated in nearby cities. This necessitates a thorough examination of transportation options.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

For many Creedmoor residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The drive time to comprehensive breast cancer care centers is a critical component of our score. The closest major medical facilities equipped to handle breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up are primarily located in Durham and Raleigh.

The most direct route to Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, a leading facility, typically involves traveling south on US-15/501. Depending on traffic conditions, this drive can range from 30 to 45 minutes. The initial stretch on US-15/501 is relatively straightforward, but congestion near the Duke University campus and the surrounding medical district can significantly extend travel times, particularly during peak hours. This impacts healthcare access.

Alternatively, residents might opt to travel to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, another prominent healthcare provider. This route often involves taking NC-50 north to NC-86, then heading south. The drive time to Chapel Hill can be comparable to Durham, often taking between 40 and 55 minutes, depending on traffic flow on NC-86 and the busy roads leading to the hospital.

For those seeking care in Raleigh, the journey typically involves taking US-15/501 south to I-40 East or US-70 East. The drive to WakeMed Cary Hospital or Rex Hospital in Raleigh can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. The potential for delays on I-40 and US-70, particularly during rush hour, underscores the importance of planning and flexibility.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation in Creedmoor and the surrounding areas is currently limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The GoTriangle regional transit system does provide some service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to adequately address the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

GoTriangle Route 700, for example, provides limited service connecting Durham and Raleigh, but it does not directly serve Creedmoor. Accessing this route would require a drive to a designated park-and-ride location, adding an extra layer of complexity and travel time. The limited operating hours and infrequent service make this option impractical for many patients, especially those undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, which often require daily or multiple-times-a-week appointments.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of public transit is a crucial consideration for patients. While GoTriangle buses are generally equipped with accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, the transfer process and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing treatment-related side effects. This underscores the need for improvements in public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Creedmoor can be variable. While rides are generally available, surge pricing during peak hours or in times of high demand can significantly increase the cost, adding another layer of financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent a valuable resource. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can offer a more reliable and comfortable option, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that impairs their ability to drive. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary, making them inaccessible for some patients.

**The Score and the Implications**

Based on these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Creedmoor, ZIP code 27522, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major medical centers in Durham and Raleigh offers access to high-quality care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant transportation challenges. The variability of ride-sharing availability and the cost of medical transportation further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering moving to Creedmoor, or for current residents navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and seeking assistance from support organizations can help mitigate the challenges and ensure timely access to vital medical care. This includes the need for advocating for improved public transportation options, increased ride-sharing availability, and greater financial assistance for medical transportation services.

The journey through breast cancer is already arduous. Ensuring accessible and reliable transportation is a crucial step in easing the burden and empowering patients to focus on their health and well-being. The community must work to improve healthcare access.