27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.75 percent of residents in 27855 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 12.14 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and the journey to recovery demands swift, reliable access to specialized care. This assessment, the "Breast Cancer Score," examines the vital element of **transportation** within ZIP code 27855 (Murfreesboro, North Carolina), evaluating how readily residents can reach essential **healthcare access** points for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Murfreesboro**, considering the practicalities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer care in this rural community.

Murfreesboro, nestled in the heart of Hertford County, is a small town. Its relative isolation means the availability of specialized medical services is limited within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to larger regional centers for comprehensive breast cancer care. Therefore, **transportation** becomes a critical determinant of the quality of life and treatment outcomes for individuals facing this disease.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Murfreesboro is US-17. Heading south, US-17 provides access to the larger city of Williamston, approximately 30 miles away, which may offer some limited medical services. However, for advanced breast cancer care, the more significant destinations are further afield.

Driving north on US-17 leads to Suffolk, Virginia, about 50 miles away. Suffolk offers more extensive healthcare options, including specialized cancer centers and hospitals. The drive, though feasible, can take over an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is the most likely destination for many in need of advanced care.

Another crucial route is NC-186, which intersects with US-17 in Murfreesboro. This road offers a more direct route to the east, connecting to the towns of Winton and Ahoskie. While these towns might offer basic medical services, they are unlikely to have specialized breast cancer facilities.

Drive times are subject to the whims of traffic, which is generally light in this rural area, but seasonal variations and unexpected incidents can impact travel times. A reliable car is, therefore, essential. The availability of carpooling options may be limited, given the rural nature of the area.

Public **transportation** options in Murfreesboro are scarce. Hertford County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those facing financial constraints. **Healthcare access** is severely hampered by this lack of public transit.

While the absence of a formal bus system is a major obstacle, there might be limited options for transportation through county-run programs or non-profit organizations. These programs may offer rides to medical appointments for eligible individuals, but availability and eligibility requirements can vary.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public **transportation**. However, with the lack of a formal public transit system, ADA-compliant options are practically non-existent. This poses a significant hurdle for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are unlikely to be readily available in Murfreesboro. The low population density and rural location make it challenging for these companies to maintain a presence. This further restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

Medical **transportation** services are an essential component of **healthcare access**, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those needing specialized care. Companies like Med-Trans and Air Methods provide air ambulance services, which are critical in emergencies. However, these services are costly and typically reserved for critical situations.

Ground medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, are available for non-emergency medical transport. These services can be used for appointments, but they are often expensive and require pre-booking. The availability of these services can be limited, and waiting times may vary.

For those **moving to Murfreesboro**, the availability of reliable **transportation** for healthcare should be a primary consideration. The lack of public transit and limited ride-sharing options necessitate reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transport services.

The **Breast Cancer Score** for Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855) is significantly impacted by the challenges in **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative options create a barrier to **healthcare access**. While the drive times to regional centers are manageable, the lack of public transit and ride-sharing options presents a significant challenge, especially for those with mobility limitations or without access to a personal vehicle.

The score would be improved by increased access to public **transportation**, such as a county-run bus system or partnerships with ride-sharing services. The availability of affordable medical **transportation** options is also crucial.

The **Breast Cancer Score** for this area reflects the importance of planning and preparation. Individuals considering **moving to Murfreesboro** and those already residing here should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available options for **healthcare access**, including medical **transportation** services and potential support from community organizations. Proactive planning and a strong support network are essential for navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring timely access to vital breast cancer care.