27879, Simpson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27879, Simpson, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.90 percent of residents in 27879 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ecu Health Medical Center with a distance of 7.30 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27879, Simpson, North Carolina

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis can feel isolating, a journey demanding not just medical expertise, but also the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. For residents of ZIP Code 27879, Simpson, North Carolina, understanding the landscape of available resources, including how to get to them, is paramount. This write-up aims to illuminate the *transportation* options and the potential challenges faced when seeking breast cancer care in this rural community, ultimately providing a snapshot of a “Breast Cancer Score” for the area.

Simpson, nestled in Pitt County, presents a unique set of circumstances. While the town itself offers a sense of close-knit community, the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Greenville, the county seat. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or other *transportation* methods to access vital screening, diagnostic, and treatment services.

The primary route to Greenville from Simpson is via NC-102, a two-lane road that winds its way through farmland and small towns. The drive is generally straightforward, but traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours or when school buses are in operation. The estimated drive time to Vidant Medical Center, the primary healthcare provider in Greenville, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Simpson.

Alternatively, residents can utilize US-264, a major east-west highway that intersects with NC-102. This route offers a slightly faster journey, particularly for those residing in the western part of Simpson. However, the drive can be longer during rush hour. The use of US-264 can also lead to a slightly longer distance to certain healthcare facilities.

For individuals without access to a personal vehicle, the *transportation* options become more limited. Public *transportation* in this area is primarily provided by Pitt Area Transit System (PATS). However, PATS operates on a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. The availability of routes and the frequency of service can be limited, particularly for residents in more remote areas of Simpson. Furthermore, the routes might not be directly aligned with the location of healthcare facilities, potentially requiring multiple transfers or extended travel times.

PATS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the service. However, the scheduling requirements and potential delays can still pose challenges for those needing regular medical appointments. The lack of readily available public *transportation* underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative arrangements for *healthcare access*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Greenville and surrounding areas. However, their availability in Simpson itself can be variable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. While offering a convenient option, ride-sharing’s reliance on driver availability and potential surge pricing necessitates careful planning and financial consideration.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, also exist. Companies like LogistiCare and Access2Care provide non-emergency medical *transportation* to eligible individuals. These services often coordinate with insurance providers and offer various levels of assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility requirements and prior authorization processes can sometimes complicate the process, and the availability of these services can vary.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Simpson, 27879, reflects the interplay of these factors. The score is not a single number but rather a composite assessment, considering the following elements: the distance and drive time to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public *transportation*, the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical *transportation* options.

For individuals with personal vehicles, the score might be relatively higher, reflecting the ease of *transportation* to Greenville. However, even for those with cars, factors like traffic, the cost of gas, and the need for reliable vehicle maintenance contribute to the overall score.

For those without personal vehicles, the score would likely be lower. The limited public *transportation* options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the complexities of medical *transportation* services create barriers to *healthcare access*. This necessitates a more proactive approach to planning and coordination.

The presence of support networks, such as family, friends, and community organizations, can significantly impact the “Breast Cancer Score.” These networks can provide assistance with *transportation*, childcare, and other practical needs, mitigating some of the challenges. The availability of local support groups and resources specifically tailored to breast cancer patients also contributes to a more favorable score.

For those *moving to Simpson* or considering a move, the “Breast Cancer Score” should be a crucial consideration. While the town offers a peaceful atmosphere, the realities of *healthcare access* must be carefully evaluated. Prospective residents should research the availability of *transportation* options, investigate the local support networks, and assess their own ability to manage the logistical demands of medical care.

In conclusion, the “Breast Cancer Score” for Simpson, 27879, is a nuanced assessment. While the drive to Greenville is manageable for those with vehicles, the limited public *transportation* options and the variable availability of ride-sharing create challenges for some residents. A comprehensive evaluation of these factors, along with the presence of support networks, is essential for anyone navigating the complexities of breast cancer care in this rural community. Understanding these realities empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their *healthcare access* and to proactively plan for their needs. The journey is not just about the medical care; it's about the ability to get there.