27568, Pine Level, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.13 percent of residents in 27568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 5.32 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pine Level, NC (ZIP Code 27568)**

Pine Level, North Carolina, a charming locale nestled in Johnston County, offers a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community. However, when facing a serious diagnosis like breast cancer, the serenity of Pine Level can be challenged by the complexities of healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP Code 27568, evaluating the transportation options available for treatment and care, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering moving to Pine Level or already residing there, particularly those navigating the challenging journey of breast cancer treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a numerical grade but a comprehensive assessment of the resources available to facilitate healthcare access. It highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure. This information is vital for patients, their families, and healthcare providers to plan effectively and ensure timely access to vital medical appointments.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Arteries**

For residents of Pine Level, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The town's location, while offering a rural atmosphere, necessitates reliance on roadways for accessing specialized medical care. The primary artery connecting Pine Level to larger towns and cities is US Highway 70, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on US-70 provides access to Goldsboro, where Wayne UNC Health Care offers comprehensive medical services, including oncology. The drive to Goldsboro from Pine Level typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling west on US-70 leads to Smithfield, the Johnston County seat, and then on to Raleigh, the state capital. Smithfield boasts Johnston Health, a healthcare system with various specialized services. The drive to Smithfield is generally a shorter trip, around 15 to 20 minutes. Raleigh, with its larger hospitals and specialized cancer centers, is approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive from Pine Level. These longer drive times, particularly to Raleigh, can pose a significant challenge for patients undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Other important roads include NC Highway 50, which runs north and south, and provides access to nearby communities and connecting routes. Local roads, such as Pine Level-Micro Road and Old US-70, offer alternative routes but may involve slower travel times due to their smaller size and potential for congestion. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety, adding another layer of consideration for patients.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options within Johnston County and specifically serving Pine Level are extremely limited. The primary provider is Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS), which operates a demand-response service. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, and service is not available on a fixed route or schedule. This lack of fixed routes and the need for advance booking can create significant barriers for patients needing regular appointments.

Furthermore, JCATS may not always be able to accommodate the specific needs of cancer patients, such as those requiring wheelchair accessibility or assistance with mobility. While JCATS strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the limited availability and the need for pre-booking can make it difficult for patients to rely on public transit for their healthcare needs. The absence of readily available public transit underscores the critical importance of alternative transportation solutions in Pine Level.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pine Level, but their reliability and availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Patients may experience longer wait times or difficulty securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or when needing transportation to early morning appointments. While ride-sharing offers a degree of flexibility, it is not always a dependable solution for consistent healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with appointments, provide a more specialized option. These services, such as ModivCare and Logisticare, often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate patients with mobility challenges. However, availability may be limited, and patients may need to meet specific eligibility requirements or have their transportation pre-approved by their insurance provider.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can also be a significant financial burden for patients, especially those on fixed incomes or facing extensive treatment regimens. This financial aspect adds another layer of complexity to the overall "Breast Cancer Score," highlighting the need for resources and support to help patients navigate the costs associated with transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pine Level, NC, reveals a landscape where transportation significantly influences healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the challenges faced by patients. The drive times to major medical centers, while manageable, can become burdensome with frequent appointments.

The lack of readily available public transportation and the potential financial constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport emphasize the need for community support and resources. This includes initiatives to assist patients with transportation costs, volunteer driver programs, and partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services.

**Moving to Pine Level: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Pine Level, the "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access. Prospective residents should consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with travel. Understanding these factors is essential for making informed decisions and ensuring that healthcare needs can be met effectively.

The journey through breast cancer treatment is already challenging, and the added complexities of transportation can exacerbate the difficulties. By understanding the available resources and potential obstacles, residents of Pine Level, NC, can better navigate the healthcare system and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.