27705, Durham, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27705, Durham, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.91 percent of residents in 27705 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Durham Va Medical Center with a distance of 1.33 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Durham's 27705

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires accessible and reliable transportation, a crucial element often overlooked when considering healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape for individuals residing in Durham, North Carolina's 27705 ZIP code, focusing on the ease of reaching essential breast cancer care facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility of care.

For those considering moving to Durham, this information is invaluable. Understanding the transportation infrastructure is paramount when choosing a residence, especially for individuals or families managing health concerns. Proximity to treatment centers, ease of access, and the availability of alternative transport are key considerations.

The 27705 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Durham, presents a varied transportation picture. Major thoroughfares like **Interstate 85 (I-85)** and **Highway 147 (Durham Freeway)** form the backbone of the road network. Accessing Duke University Hospital, a primary destination for breast cancer care, via I-85 can be relatively straightforward, typically taking around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. However, peak hours can significantly extend this commute, potentially adding another 15-20 minutes.

Other routes, like **Hillsborough Road** and **Guess Road**, offer alternative paths, but they are often subject to congestion, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. The **Durham Freeway**, while efficient, can also experience bottlenecks, particularly around the I-85 interchange. The variability of these drive times underscores the need for alternative transportation options.

Public transit, provided by GoDurham, offers another avenue. Several bus routes serve the 27705 area, including routes like the **5 (Guess Road)**, **6 (Hillsborough Road)**, and **11 (Duke University)**. While these routes provide access to Duke University Hospital and other medical facilities, the frequency and travel times can be a challenge.

The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** compliance of GoDurham buses is a crucial factor. All GoDurham buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, waiting times, transfers, and the overall duration of the journey can be significant. A bus ride from the 27705 area to Duke University Hospital could easily take 45 minutes to an hour or longer, significantly impacting the patient experience, especially for those undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services provide door-to-door convenience, eliminating the need for transfers and reducing travel times. However, the cost can be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services also fluctuates, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Specialized medical transportation services, like **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved transportation providers**, cater specifically to individuals needing assistance getting to medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and a more personalized approach. While these services can be invaluable, availability and eligibility requirements may vary.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 27705 will consider these factors. It will evaluate the average drive times during peak and off-peak hours, the frequency and accessibility of public transit routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options.

Furthermore, the score will incorporate information about the proximity of treatment centers, including Duke University Hospital, Durham Regional Hospital, and any specialized breast cancer clinics within or near the 27705 area. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs offered by these facilities, will also be factored into the final score.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the ease with which individuals in 27705 can access essential breast cancer care. This score is not merely a number; it's a reflection of the lived experience of patients navigating a complex healthcare system.

For individuals moving to Durham, the Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool. It provides insights into the transportation challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. It encourages prospective residents to consider factors beyond just the cost of housing and the quality of schools. It empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the accessibility of care in their chosen neighborhood.

The availability of transportation options directly impacts the patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and receive the support they need. A high Breast Cancer Score indicates a supportive environment where access to care is relatively easy. A lower score highlights areas where transportation challenges may create barriers to care, necessitating careful planning and consideration.

The 27705 ZIP code, with its mix of suburban and urban landscapes, presents a complex transportation picture. While major highways offer efficient routes, public transit and ride-sharing services provide crucial alternatives. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect this complexity, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking breast cancer care in this area.

Ultimately, the goal is to contribute to a community where healthcare access is equitable and where transportation is not a barrier to receiving timely and effective treatment. By providing this detailed analysis, we hope to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to advocate for improvements in transportation infrastructure that supports the well-being of all residents. The journey to healthcare should be as smooth and stress-free as possible, especially for those facing the challenges of breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Score is a step towards making that a reality.