27576, Selma, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27576, Selma, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.09 percent of residents in 27576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 5.17 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Selma, NC (ZIP Code 27576)

The diagnosis of breast cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Selma, North Carolina (ZIP code 27576), the journey to quality care is a critical factor in the fight. This report assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, focusing on transportation options, a vital component of healthcare access, and its impact on patients. Considering the challenges of navigating a cancer diagnosis, understanding these options is paramount.

Moving to Selma, or already residing there, requires a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape. The availability of timely appointments, specialized care, and supportive services hinges on reliable transportation. This analysis delves into the realities of getting to and from appointments, treatments, and follow-up care, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing breast cancer patients in Selma.

**The Geographic Context and its Challenges**

Selma, a town in Johnston County, North Carolina, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While offering a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience, its healthcare infrastructure is not as dense as in larger metropolitan areas. This means patients often need to travel outside the immediate vicinity for specialized breast cancer care, increasing the importance of reliable transportation.

The primary thoroughfares impacting healthcare access are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 70, and US Highway 301. The proximity of I-95 offers potential for quick trips north or south, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. US Highway 70, running east-west, provides access to larger cities with comprehensive medical facilities. US Highway 301, a north-south route, offers alternative access to healthcare providers.

**Drive Times: A Crucial Consideration**

Drive times are a primary concern for breast cancer patients. The urgency of appointments, the fatigue associated with treatment, and the potential for side effects all make long commutes burdensome. The closest major medical centers offering comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, all of which are accessible via the aforementioned highways.

A drive to the Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, a renowned center, typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic on I-95 and I-40. The drive to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill can take a similar amount of time, again influenced by traffic. The drive to WakeMed in Raleigh, offering various cancer services, is generally shorter, around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the route taken on US-70 or US-64.

These drive times, while manageable, can become significant barriers. Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy may need daily or frequent trips, making the burden of transportation a major factor in their quality of life.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Selma are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) offers some services, but its routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments. JCATS does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of fixed-route buses is limited, and demand-response services, requiring advance booking, may not always align with the immediate needs of a patient. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long wait times further complicate the use of public transportation for breast cancer care.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Selma, offering an alternative to driving. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments. Patients with limited financial resources may find this option unsustainable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and other local providers offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and personal care. These services can be invaluable for patients unable to drive or utilize public transportation. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Selma (ZIP code 27576) reflects the complex interplay of factors affecting healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transportation availability, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the presence of support services.

The score is influenced by the geographical constraints of the area, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternatives. While drive times to major medical centers are generally manageable, the frequency of appointments and the potential for traffic congestion create significant challenges.

**Enhancing Healthcare Access: Recommendations**

Improving the Breast Cancer Score for Selma requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, including expanded routes and increased frequency, is crucial. Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services can help patients navigate the system.

Advocating for financial assistance programs to offset the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport is essential. Providing information about available resources and support services, including patient navigators and support groups, can empower patients to make informed decisions.

**Conclusion: A Path Forward**

The Breast Cancer Score for Selma highlights the critical need for accessible and reliable transportation for breast cancer patients. While the area offers access to quality healthcare, the challenges of transportation can significantly impact the patient experience. By addressing these challenges, Selma can improve healthcare access, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their transportation circumstances, can receive the care they need. The focus should be on creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to navigate their journey and receive the best possible care.