27872, Roxobel, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.86 percent of residents in 27872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 18.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roxobel, NC (ZIP Code 27872)

The diagnosis of breast cancer, a life-altering event, necessitates swift and reliable access to specialized medical care. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** for residents of Roxobel, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27872), a rural community where timely medical intervention can be a significant challenge. Our focus is on understanding the practical realities of reaching vital healthcare services, particularly for those facing the physical and emotional toll of this disease.

Considering a move to Roxobel? This analysis provides crucial insights into the geographical barriers and available options, offering a comprehensive perspective on navigating the healthcare landscape. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, especially in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Roxobel, a town nestled in Bertie County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in neighboring counties, creating a dependency on **transportation** networks. The score will assess drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options, providing a realistic picture of the challenges and possibilities for residents seeking breast cancer care.

**Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Method**

The automobile reigns supreme as the primary mode of **transportation** in Roxobel. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities.

The closest major medical center offering comprehensive cancer care is Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, approximately 15 miles away. The drive, primarily via US-13 and NC-461, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This is a relatively manageable distance, yet the reliance on a personal vehicle can be a significant hurdle for those without one, or for those whose ability to drive is compromised by treatment side effects.

For more specialized services, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Greenville, NC. This journey, covering approximately 60 miles, requires navigating US-13, US-17, and US-264. The drive time typically ranges from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, a considerably longer commitment. This longer commute can exacerbate the physical and emotional strain of treatment, especially during frequent appointments.

The drive to the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately 50 miles away, is another option. This route involves US-17 and typically takes about an hour. The choice of facility will depend on the specific needs of the patient, the availability of specialists, and insurance coverage.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Roxobel are extremely limited. Bertie County does offer a public transit system, the Bertie County Transportation Department, but its services are primarily designed for essential trips, such as medical appointments, grocery shopping, and work. The routes and schedules are limited, and the system may not be equipped to handle the frequent and often unpredictable needs of breast cancer patients.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While Bertie County Transportation Department strives to provide accessible vehicles, the demand can be high, and advance booking is often required. The lack of frequent routes and the potential for long wait times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many patients.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** infrastructure highlights the challenges faced by residents without access to a personal vehicle. This underscores the need for alternative solutions, such as ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary, especially in rural areas. Surge pricing, a common practice during peak hours or periods of high demand, can make these services unaffordable for some patients. The limited availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, can also pose a challenge.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedTrans and FirstLight Home Care, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and luggage. While these services can be a valuable resource, they can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the individual.

The cost of medical **transportation**, whether through ride-sharing services or specialized providers, can quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to the already significant costs associated with cancer treatment. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by cancer support organizations, can be crucial in mitigating these expenses.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roxobel, NC (27872) reflects the interplay of several factors. The score will weigh the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

The score will also consider the availability of support services, such as cancer support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs. These resources can provide invaluable emotional, practical, and financial support to patients and their families.

A lower score indicates greater challenges in accessing timely and convenient healthcare, while a higher score reflects a more favorable environment for patients. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape in Roxobel, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roxobel, NC (27872) reveals a complex picture of healthcare access. While the proximity of Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** create significant barriers for many residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides alternative options, but their cost and reliability can be a concern.

The need for enhanced healthcare access in Roxobel is clear. This includes strengthening public **transportation** infrastructure, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the affordability of medical **transportation**. Furthermore, increased support for cancer patients, including financial assistance programs and patient navigation services, is crucial.

For those considering **moving to Roxobel**, this assessment offers a critical perspective on the realities of healthcare access. Understanding these challenges and opportunities is essential for making informed decisions about one's health and well-being. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a call to action, urging the community to prioritize healthcare access and ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.