Breast Cancer Score

27915, Avon, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 27915, Avon, North Carolina

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27915, Avon, North Carolina is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.27 percent of residents in 27915 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 41.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 41.31 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 27915, Avon, North Carolina

Breast Cancer Score 29
People Score 73
Provider Score 23
Hospital Score 61
Travel Score 5

Closest Hospital - THE OUTER BANKS HOSPITAL, INC

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 27915 Avon North Carolina
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.14
1 Car 24.55 24.55 19.36
2 Cars 23.64 23.64 40.83
3 or More Cars 51.82 51.82 37.67

Vehicular Access in 27915, Avon, North Carolina

Travel Score Review of 27915, Avon, North Carolina

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Avon, NC (ZIP Code 27915)

The salty air of the Outer Banks, the rhythmic crash of waves, and the allure of a life lived close to nature – these are the siren songs that draw people to Avon, North Carolina. But beyond the postcard-perfect scenery lies a crucial consideration for anyone, especially women: healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" – a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and healthcare resources available for those residing in or considering a move to ZIP code 27915, specifically focusing on navigating breast cancer care.

For women, the availability and accessibility of quality breast cancer care are paramount. Early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment are vital for survival. This score considers the practical realities of getting to appointments, the availability of specialists, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare system. It's a critical factor for those considering a move, or for existing residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

**The Transportation Terrain:**

Avon, NC, is a remote, coastal community. This geographic isolation significantly impacts transportation options. The primary mode of transport is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The main artery in and out of Avon is **NC-12**, a scenic but often congested two-lane highway that hugs the coastline. During peak tourist seasons, traffic can become a significant challenge, potentially extending drive times considerably.

Further inland, **US-64** and **US-264** provide connections to the mainland, offering access to larger towns and cities with more comprehensive healthcare facilities. However, these routes necessitate a ferry crossing, adding to the travel time and potential for delays. The ferry schedule is a critical consideration, particularly for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Drive times are highly variable. To the nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, the drive along NC-12 is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This is a manageable distance, but the potential for delays due to weather, accidents, or seasonal congestion must be factored in.

For more specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, residents may need to travel to Greenville, NC, or Norfolk, VA. The drive to Greenville via US-64 and US-264, including the ferry, can take upwards of three hours, depending on ferry schedules and traffic. Norfolk, VA, is a similar distance, requiring a longer drive and potentially more complex navigation.

**Public Transportation: A Sparse Reality:**

Public transportation options in Avon are extremely limited. Dare County operates a public transit system, the Dare County Transportation System, but its service is primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited mobility. The routes are not extensive and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. The Dare County Transportation System offers ADA-compliant vehicles, but the availability and scheduling of these vehicles should be confirmed in advance. Riders with mobility limitations must be prepared to plan and book their rides well in advance.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This highlights the critical importance of alternative transportation options.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Outer Banks, but their availability is not consistent. The frequency of service can be significantly impacted by the time of day, the season, and the overall demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not advisable.

Medical transportation services offer a more reliable option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. While this option can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, it offers peace of mind and ensures reliable transportation to and from medical appointments.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Outer Banks. It is essential to research and compare services, considering factors such as cost, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized equipment. Booking in advance is crucial, especially for appointments that require specific timing.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation:**

Transportation is only one piece of the puzzle. The availability of breast cancer specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff, is equally important. The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head offers a range of services, including mammography, breast ultrasound, and surgical consultations. However, for more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers.

The proximity of a hospital with a comprehensive cancer center is a significant advantage for Avon residents. The ability to receive initial diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care locally reduces the burden of travel and allows patients to stay closer to their support networks.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Avon, NC (ZIP code 27915) is a nuanced assessment. While the presence of The Outer Banks Hospital offers a degree of local care, the limitations in transportation options and the need for travel to access specialized services create challenges.

**Strengths:**

* Proximity to The Outer Banks Hospital for initial care and screenings.
* Availability of medical transport services.
* Access to ride-sharing services (though availability is variable).

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transportation options.
* Dependence on personal vehicles.
* Long travel times to access specialized care (Greenville, NC, or Norfolk, VA).
* Potential for traffic delays on NC-12, especially during peak seasons.

**Recommendations:**

* Individuals considering a move to Avon should carefully assess their transportation needs and capabilities.
* Research and identify reliable medical transport services.
* Familiarize yourself with the Dare County Transportation System and its ADA-compliant services.
* Plan appointments well in advance, considering travel times and potential delays.
* Establish a support network to assist with transportation and other needs.
* Regularly check ferry schedules and traffic conditions.
* Consider the financial implications of transportation costs.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Avon, with its breathtaking beauty, requires a practical understanding of healthcare access. While the community offers a degree of local care, the challenges of transportation must be carefully considered, particularly for women navigating breast cancer care. By proactively planning for transportation needs and understanding the available resources, residents can successfully manage their healthcare journeys while enjoying the unique lifestyle that Avon offers. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a framework to help those considering a move, or those already in Avon, to navigate the transportation landscape and secure the necessary healthcare access. This score is a dynamic assessment, and individuals should regularly re-evaluate their needs and options as their health circumstances evolve.

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Health Scores Near 27915, Avon, North Carolina

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Health Scores in 27915, Avon, North Carolina