27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.90 percent of residents in 27883 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilson Medical Center with a distance of 11.25 miles from the area.

The information provided below is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stantonsburg, NC (ZIP Code 27883)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event. Beyond the medical complexities, a patient confronts a new reality of appointments, treatments, and ongoing care. For residents of Stantonsburg, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27883), the accessibility of healthcare, particularly specialized breast cancer services, becomes a critical factor in their journey. This analysis, presented as a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, a vital component of healthcare access, for those living in this rural community. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, offering a comprehensive view of the logistical challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care. This information is crucial for anyone currently residing in Stantonsburg, or even considering moving to Stantonsburg, as they assess their healthcare needs.

Stantonsburg, a town characterized by its agricultural roots and close-knit community, is situated in Wilson County. The nearest major healthcare facilities specializing in cancer care are located in Wilson and Greenville, necessitating travel for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments. The efficiency and reliability of transportation directly impact a patient’s ability to adhere to treatment schedules and maintain their overall well-being.

The primary mode of transportation for most Stantonsburg residents is personal vehicles. Driving times to healthcare facilities are thus a crucial element of our Breast Cancer Score. The Vidant Cancer Center in Wilson, a common destination for cancer care, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-264 and US-301. This relatively short commute provides reasonable access, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. The drive to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, which offers more specialized cancer services, is approximately 40-45 minutes via US-264 and NC-43. This longer commute presents a greater challenge, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing fatigue.

Public transportation options in Wilson County are limited. The Wilson Area Transit System (WATS) offers bus services within the city of Wilson, but routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to healthcare needs in Stantonsburg. WATS does not extend to Stantonsburg. This lack of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of readily available public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative solutions for healthcare access in this community.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services. However, the limited reach of WATS and the lack of service to Stantonsburg, mean that ADA-compliant transportation is not a readily available option for residents of 27883. This further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities seeking breast cancer care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Wilson and Greenville, but their availability and affordability in Stantonsburg can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for frequent appointments, can be a significant financial burden. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or in the early morning or late evening, may be uncertain. This reliance on ride-sharing services to access healthcare is a precarious proposition.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as Firstat Nursing Services and other medical transport providers operate in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which can be a challenge in emergency situations or when appointments are scheduled on short notice.

The Breast Cancer Score for Stantonsburg, NC (27883) is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive to the Vidant Cancer Center in Wilson provides a degree of healthcare access. However, the longer commute to Greenville, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score.

The lack of readily available transportation options can create significant stress for breast cancer patients. The logistical challenges of getting to and from appointments can interfere with treatment adherence, potentially impacting treatment outcomes. Furthermore, the financial burden of transportation costs can exacerbate the financial strain associated with cancer treatment.

For individuals considering moving to Stantonsburg, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation alternatives, and the associated costs is crucial.

This "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive metric, but rather a framework for understanding the transportation-related challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Stantonsburg. The score highlights the need for improved public transportation options, increased availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and greater awareness of medical transportation resources. Addressing these transportation barriers can significantly improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients in this community, enabling them to focus on their treatment and recovery.