27896, Wilson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27896, Wilson, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.88 percent of residents in 27896 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilson Medical Center with a distance of 3.56 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilson, NC (ZIP Code 27896)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires readily available and reliable transportation, a crucial element in the fight against this disease. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Wilson, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27896), assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing breast cancer and considering factors for those moving to Wilson. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport to illuminate the Breast Cancer Score for this community.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in Wilson are US-301 (South Goldsboro Street), US-264 (Raleigh Road Parkway), and Interstate 95. These roadways funnel patients to the primary medical facilities, including Wilson Medical Center, and various specialized clinics. The drive times, however, vary depending on location within the ZIP code and the time of day. Rush hour, particularly on US-301 and US-264, can significantly extend travel times, adding stress and potential delays for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

Residents in the northern reaches of 27896, closer to the intersection of US-301 and I-95, might experience shorter drive times to the hospital, perhaps a 5-10 minute journey. Conversely, those residing in the southern or eastern parts of the ZIP code, nearer to areas like Wiggins Mill Road or Ward Boulevard, could face a 15-20 minute drive, especially during peak traffic. Even a seemingly short drive can feel arduous when dealing with the physical and emotional toll of breast cancer.

Public transportation, while available, presents challenges in Wilson. The Wilson Area Transit System (WATS) provides bus services, but the routes are limited and may not directly serve all areas within the ZIP code. Route 1, for instance, travels along Nash Street, while Route 2 navigates Tarboro Street. These routes could offer some access to medical facilities, but their frequency and coverage may not adequately meet the needs of patients requiring frequent appointments or those with mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. WATS buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and the overall convenience of public transit depend on the individual's specific needs and the distance from their home to the nearest bus stop. For those considering moving to Wilson, evaluating the proximity of potential residences to bus routes and assessing the ease of access to stops is essential.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability in Wilson is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent trips. This financial burden can be a significant barrier for some patients, potentially impacting their ability to adhere to treatment plans. Moreover, the reliability of these services can vary, particularly during inclement weather or peak demand times, potentially causing delays or missed appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients with specific needs. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local providers, offer transportation with trained medical personnel and specialized vehicles. They are particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility, have complex medical needs, or need transportation to facilities outside of Wilson. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, and prior arrangements are often required.

The Breast Cancer Score in Wilson, NC (27896) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of a hospital and various clinics is a positive indicator, the limitations in transportation options present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the constraints of public transit, the financial implications of ride-sharing, and the specialized needs addressed by medical transport all contribute to the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Wilson, careful consideration of transportation is paramount. Assessing the proximity of potential residences to medical facilities, evaluating the accessibility of public transit routes, and understanding the costs associated with ride-sharing are crucial steps. Planning for potential transportation challenges, especially during treatment and recovery, is vital.

Furthermore, the community's efforts to improve transportation access for cancer patients are critical. This could involve expanding public transit routes, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates, or increasing the availability of medical transport options. Such initiatives would significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score and enhance healthcare access for all residents.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score in Wilson, NC (27896) highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to healthcare access. While the medical facilities are present, the transportation infrastructure requires further development to ensure that all residents, particularly those battling breast cancer, can navigate the healthcare system efficiently and with minimal stress. The availability of reliable, affordable, and accessible transportation is not just a convenience; it is a fundamental component of quality healthcare.