27820, Conway, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27820, Conway, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.83 percent of residents in 27820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 16.53 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Conway, NC (ZIP Code 27820)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, and the journey to recovery is paved with complex decisions. Beyond the medical treatments, a crucial element impacting a patient's well-being is **healthcare access**, specifically the ease with which they can reach their appointments. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Conway, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27820), examines the **transportation** landscape, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities faced when seeking breast cancer care. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to Conway**, as it can significantly influence their quality of life.

Conway, a small town nestled in Northampton County, presents unique considerations regarding healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in larger towns, necessitating travel. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, all vital components of a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

The primary healthcare destinations for breast cancer treatment from Conway are in Roanoke Rapids, approximately 20 miles away, and Greenville, roughly 60 miles distant.

The most direct route to Roanoke Rapids involves traveling north on US-158, a two-lane highway. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, takes about 30-40 minutes. This route is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, especially during the winter months, can impact travel times.

Alternatively, to reach Greenville, residents must travel south on US-158 to US-258, then to US-264. This journey, which includes a portion of a four-lane highway, typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend these drive times.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The primary provider in the area is the Roanoke-Chowan Transportation System (RCTS). RCTS offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While the RCTS does provide services to medical appointments, the availability and scheduling process can be cumbersome. Passengers should be aware of the need to plan well ahead. ADA-compliant vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for pre-booking can pose significant challenges for breast cancer patients requiring frequent treatments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, especially considering the frequent appointments required for breast cancer treatment.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, are available. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Patients should research and compare providers to find the most suitable option. Some medical transport companies include Care Ride, First Transit, and others.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Conway, NC, reflects the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the uncertainties of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a complex landscape.

For a resident of Conway, the "Breast Cancer Score" would be impacted by several factors. The ability to drive, the availability of a support network to provide transportation, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services all play crucial roles.

The distance to treatment centers in Roanoke Rapids and Greenville is a significant factor. While Roanoke Rapids is closer, the limited healthcare options there may necessitate travel to Greenville, extending travel times and increasing the burden on patients.

The availability and reliability of public transit are also critical. The current limitations of the RCTS, including the need for advance booking and the potential for limited service, can create significant challenges for patients.

The cost of transportation is another important consideration. The price of gasoline, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services can add up quickly, placing a financial strain on patients already facing the financial burden of medical treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Conway, NC, would likely be lower than for communities with more readily accessible healthcare options. While the community is close-knit, the geographic isolation and limited transportation options create significant hurdles for breast cancer patients.

For individuals **moving to Conway** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. It's vital to assess personal resources, explore all available options, and plan for potential transportation difficulties.

The future of healthcare access in Conway may see improvements. Increased investment in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the availability of more medical transport options could improve the "Breast Cancer Score." Telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also play a role in reducing the need for frequent travel.

Navigating the healthcare system with a breast cancer diagnosis is a challenging journey. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the critical role of **transportation** in ensuring **healthcare access** for residents of Conway, NC. By understanding the existing landscape and exploring available options, patients can better manage their care and improve their overall well-being. This information is especially important for those considering **moving to Conway**, as it allows for a more informed decision regarding their healthcare needs.