27707, Durham, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27707, Durham, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.15 percent of residents in 27707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Duke University Hospital with a distance of 3.32 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Durham's 27707

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than medical expertise. It necessitates navigating the complex landscape of transportation, a crucial element in accessing timely and comprehensive care. In Durham's 27707 ZIP code, this journey presents unique challenges and opportunities, influencing a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access for residents.

The 27707 ZIP code, a vibrant tapestry of residential areas and commercial hubs, is centrally located, offering relatively easy access to major thoroughfares. However, the reality of transportation is far more nuanced than simply proximity to highways. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, delves into the specifics, assessing how quickly and efficiently residents can reach critical healthcare providers.

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation are crucial. Interstate 85 (I-85) serves as a major north-south conduit, providing direct access to Duke University Hospital and other medical facilities. The drive time, however, is significantly impacted by rush hour traffic, particularly during weekday commutes. The Durham Freeway (NC-147) offers a more direct route east-west, but again, congestion can be a factor. Smaller roads like Erwin Road and Chapel Hill Road provide alternative routes, but these can also be subject to traffic delays, especially near the Duke University campus.

The Breast Cancer Score considers these variables, factoring in the potential for increased travel times during peak hours. It also acknowledges the importance of parking availability at medical facilities, a significant consideration for patients undergoing frequent treatments or check-ups. The score will also factor in the ease of access to medical facilities from major roadways, considering factors like the presence of traffic lights, crosswalks, and pedestrian safety measures.

Public transportation emerges as a vital alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid the stress of driving. The Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) provides bus services throughout the city, including routes that serve major medical centers. Several DATA routes, such as the 400 series, offer direct access to Duke University Hospital and the Duke Cancer Center.

The Breast Cancer Score assesses the frequency and reliability of these routes, considering factors like the time between buses, the overall travel time, and the availability of ADA-compliant features. ADA compliance is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access public transportation comfortably and safely. The score will also evaluate the proximity of bus stops to residential areas and medical facilities, recognizing that a short walk can make a significant difference in accessibility.

The Breast Cancer Score will also evaluate the availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft. These services offer a convenient and flexible transportation option, particularly for those who need to schedule appointments at specific times or who require door-to-door service. However, the score will also consider the cost of these services, recognizing that they can be expensive, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another essential component of the Breast Cancer Score. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, providing a higher level of care and support. The score will assess the availability of these services in the 27707 ZIP code, considering factors like the types of services offered, the cost, and the ease of scheduling.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the impact of healthcare access on the overall quality of life for residents. The ability to easily access healthcare services can reduce stress, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals and families. The score will, therefore, take into account the potential for delays in treatment, the impact on work and family life, and the overall sense of security and peace of mind that comes with reliable healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Durham, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable tool for evaluating healthcare access in different neighborhoods. The score can help prospective residents make informed decisions about where to live, considering factors like proximity to medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the overall ease of accessing healthcare services.

The Breast Cancer Score is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It is a dynamic assessment, constantly evolving to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and the needs of the community. The score ultimately aims to empower residents of the 27707 ZIP code with the knowledge and resources they need to access timely and comprehensive breast cancer care.