27863, Pikeville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.54 percent of residents in 27863 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.31 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27863 (Pikeville, NC)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding not only expert medical care but also a swift and reliable means of reaching it. For residents of Pikeville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27863), the journey to healthcare, a critical component of the treatment process, requires careful consideration. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" if you will, assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare facilities, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely access to care. This is especially important for those considering moving to Pikeville, NC.

The primary concern for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis is the speed and efficiency with which they can access treatment. Delays can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, this score considers the various transportation methods available, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their respective travel times to key healthcare providers specializing in breast cancer care.

**The Highway to Healing: Driving Times and Routes**

Pikeville, nestled in Wayne County, offers a primarily rural landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The major thoroughfare, US-117, is a critical artery. Heading north, it connects to Goldsboro, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities. The drive to Wayne UNC Health Care, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive, while manageable, requires careful planning, especially during peak hours.

Another crucial route involves US-70, which can be accessed from US-117. This route provides access to further healthcare options, including those in Kinston, approximately a 45-minute drive. These longer drives highlight the importance of reliable vehicle maintenance and the potential challenges for those without personal transportation.

The smaller, connecting roads, such as NC-581 and NC-903, offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and less direct. They are more suitable for local travel and may be used to avoid traffic congestion on the main highways. These roads are also less likely to have well-maintained shoulders, which could be a concern for those with mobility issues.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Pikeville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Wayne County Transit system offers bus services, but these are primarily designed for local travel and may not provide direct routes to specialized breast cancer care facilities. The schedules are also limited, and services may not be available during evenings or weekends, which could restrict access to appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is essential for individuals with mobility impairments. While the Wayne County Transit system strives to provide accessible transportation, it's crucial to confirm the availability of such services for specific routes and times. The lack of comprehensive public transit presents a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could pose a financial burden. Furthermore, the availability of these services in Pikeville may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas, potentially leading to delays in accessing care.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or MedTrans, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often include door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, and pre-booking is often required.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 27863 takes into account the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to key healthcare providers, considering traffic conditions and route options.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **ADA Compliance:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities.

The score is not a single number but a holistic assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure in the area.

**Implications for Healthcare Access**

The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles in Pikeville pose challenges for individuals seeking breast cancer care. This is particularly true for those without access to a car, those with mobility impairments, and those facing financial constraints. The distance to healthcare facilities, even those in Goldsboro, requires careful planning and coordination, adding stress to an already difficult situation.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some relief, but these options may not be readily accessible or affordable for everyone. This highlights the need for community support and resources to ensure that all residents have equal access to healthcare.

**Moving to Pikeville: A Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Pikeville, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a crucial factor to consider. The availability of reliable transportation is essential for managing the complexities of breast cancer treatment. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, consider the availability of support networks, and research the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Access to timely and reliable transportation is paramount for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. While Pikeville offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 27863 underscores the importance of proactive healthcare planning. It encourages residents to explore all available transportation options, seek support from community resources, and advocate for improvements in healthcare access. By understanding the transportation challenges and proactively addressing them, residents can navigate the journey to healing with greater confidence and peace of mind.