27849, Lewiston Woodville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27849, Lewiston Woodville, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.30 percent of residents in 27849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Bertie Hospital with a distance of 15.76 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27849

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not just about the medical expertise available, but also about the practicalities of accessing it. For residents of ZIP code 27849, encompassing the towns of Lewiston and Woodville, North Carolina, the Breast Cancer Score considers the critical element of transportation. This score reflects the accessibility of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options, factoring in the various transportation modalities available. This is essential for anyone considering moving to Lewiston Woodville, ensuring their healthcare needs are met.

The primary challenge for 27849 residents lies in its rural location. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are situated in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly impact the Breast Cancer Score. Delays, limited choices, and financial constraints can significantly impede access to timely and potentially life-saving care.

**Driving the Distance:**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to significant healthcare centers often involves navigating the local roadways. From Lewiston Woodville, the most common destinations include Roanoke Rapids and Ahoskie.

Traveling to Roanoke Rapids, home to the **Vidant North Hospital**, typically involves a drive along **US-17 South** and **US-158 West**. The distance, approximately 30 miles, translates to a drive time of around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting appointments.

Alternatively, heading to Ahoskie, where the **Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital** is located, involves a shorter drive, roughly 15 miles, primarily along **US-13 North**. This journey typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. While shorter in distance, this route is primarily a two-lane highway, which can be susceptible to delays due to accidents or slow-moving vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in 27849 are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public bus system. The absence of reliable public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score. This severely restricts the mobility of individuals who do not own a car, those unable to drive due to age or medical conditions, and those who cannot afford the cost of other transportation alternatives.

The lack of a robust public transportation network creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those facing financial hardship or mobility limitations. This limitation directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, reflecting the challenges faced by residents in accessing essential medical services.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may not always be readily accessible, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Their availability can fluctuate, adding another layer of uncertainty to healthcare access. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance. However, their availability and coverage area can vary. Researching the specific providers and their service areas is crucial for residents of 27849.

**Medical Transport Brands and Options:**

Several medical transport providers serve the area, including **Care Ride**, **First Choice Medical Transport**, and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. These services offer various levels of support, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance during transit. Their rates and coverage areas should be carefully evaluated to determine the most suitable option.

**ADA Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities, it is crucial to verify that any chosen transportation service complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes ensuring vehicles are accessible, with features like wheelchair lifts and trained personnel to assist passengers. Confirming ADA compliance is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score for individuals with mobility limitations.

**The Financial Burden:**

The cost of transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The expenses associated with driving, ride-sharing, or medical transport can quickly accumulate, particularly for individuals undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. The financial strain can deter patients from seeking necessary care, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score must consider the financial implications of transportation, highlighting the need for affordable and accessible options. This includes exploring potential financial assistance programs, grants, or community resources to help patients manage transportation costs.

**Impact on the Breast Cancer Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 27849 is significantly influenced by the transportation challenges. The rural location, limited public transit, and potential reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. This score underscores the need for improved transportation options to ensure equitable access to breast cancer care.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving the Breast Cancer Score requires a multi-faceted approach. Advocacy for expanded public transportation, particularly routes connecting Lewiston Woodville to healthcare centers, is essential. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation for patients is also crucial.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available medical transportation services and financial assistance programs is vital. Community outreach programs to educate residents about breast cancer screening and treatment options are also necessary. For those considering moving to Lewiston Woodville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is paramount.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in 27849 requires careful consideration of transportation. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing breast cancer care. By addressing the transportation barriers, the community can improve healthcare access and outcomes for its residents, ensuring that the journey to health is as smooth and accessible as possible. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is a critical component of a robust healthcare system, especially for those facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.