27582, Stovall, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27582, Stovall, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.61 percent of residents in 27582 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Granville Health Systems with a distance of 8.34 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27582 (Stovall, NC)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates a reliable and accessible transportation system. This report delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 27582, Stovall, North Carolina, to assess its impact on breast cancer patients' healthcare access. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Stovall, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent care.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 27582 is, of course, the automobile. Stovall is a rural community, and the vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes, including trips to medical appointments. The major thoroughfares influencing travel times are US-158, a vital east-west artery, and NC-39, which runs north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the towns of Oxford and Henderson, which are home to the majority of specialized medical facilities.

Driving to the closest comprehensive cancer center, Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, requires navigating these roadways. The drive is approximately 50 miles and can take anywhere from one hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions. This drive necessitates a round trip of at least three hours, a significant time commitment for patients undergoing treatment, who may need frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up care. This journey is further complicated by the physical and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Another significant healthcare destination is Granville Medical Center in Oxford, which offers some cancer care services. The drive is considerably shorter, roughly 15 minutes, and is primarily via US-158. This proximity offers greater convenience for routine checkups and some treatments. However, the availability of specialized services, such as advanced radiation therapy, may still require travel to Durham or other larger medical centers.

Public transportation options in 27582 are limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Granville County Transportation System (GCTS) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to the general public, but it is not designed to handle the specific needs of cancer patients, who often require frequent and unpredictable trips. The GCTS operates within Granville County and does not directly connect to Durham or other major healthcare hubs.

The GCTS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the scheduling process and limited service area can make it difficult for patients to attend appointments. The lack of fixed routes and frequent service makes relying on public transit for cancer care a significant hurdle. The absence of readily available public transportation, especially for long-distance travel, significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of 27582.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be variable. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Surge pricing, especially during peak hours or in response to high demand, can make ride-sharing an expensive option, particularly for patients who may be on fixed incomes or facing financial strain due to their illness.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Companies such as Firstat Nursing Services and AMR (American Medical Response) operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve trained personnel and specialized vehicles, such as wheelchair-accessible vans. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The availability of medical transport services is a crucial factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." While these services provide a valuable resource, their cost and limited availability can create barriers to healthcare access for some patients. The need for pre-booking and the potential for delays can also add to the stress and inconvenience of attending medical appointments.

Considering all factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 27582 reflects a complex reality. While the proximity of Granville Medical Center offers some convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant challenges. The long drive times to comprehensive cancer centers in Durham further compound these difficulties.

For individuals considering moving to Stovall, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare access. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services is also crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also underscores the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transportation services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for cancer patients, and supporting programs that provide financial assistance for medical transportation. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that all residents of 27582, including those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, can receive timely and comprehensive care.