27923, Coinjock, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27923, Coinjock, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.68 percent of residents in 27923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 17.16 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coinjock, NC (ZIP Code 27923)

The serene landscape of Coinjock, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of coastal charm and rural tranquility. However, when considering a move to this picturesque community, particularly for those concerned about healthcare access, a thorough understanding of transportation options becomes paramount. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, delves into the realities of accessing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within and around ZIP Code 27923. It emphasizes the critical link between transportation and healthcare, providing prospective residents with vital insights.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, is not a formal medical metric. It’s a qualitative evaluation of the ease and efficiency with which individuals in Coinjock can access breast cancer-related healthcare. This score considers various transportation factors, from the availability of public transit to the practicality of ride-sharing services. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely and comprehensive care.

Driving, the dominant mode of transportation in this rural area, presents the initial hurdle. Coinjock itself is a small community, and specialized medical services, including those for breast cancer, are not readily available within the immediate vicinity. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US-158 and NC-343. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak seasons, potentially impacting drive times.

The closest significant healthcare hub is Elizabeth City, approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating US-158 East, a relatively straightforward route. Elizabeth City boasts the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, a vital resource for the region. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and surgical oncology.

Further specialized care, such as radiation therapy or access to clinical trials, might necessitate travel to Norfolk, Virginia. This trip, a significantly longer undertaking, involves crossing the state line and navigating the congestion of I-64. The drive can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour. This extended travel time adds a layer of complexity to healthcare access, especially for those undergoing frequent treatments or follow-up appointments.

Public transportation, a crucial element of the Breast Cancer Score, presents a limited landscape in Coinjock. The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant factor influencing the score. The Albemarle Regional Transportation Authority (ARTA) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the Elizabeth City area and are not well-suited for regular commutes from Coinjock.

ARTA's services are generally limited in frequency and may not operate during evenings or weekends, potentially creating significant barriers for those needing appointments outside of standard business hours. Moreover, the lack of direct routes from Coinjock to major healthcare facilities further compounds the challenge. Individuals relying on public transit would likely need to coordinate multiple transfers, significantly extending travel times and adding to the logistical burden. The availability of ADA-accessible features on ARTA buses is an important consideration for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and affordability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges and ensuring they arrive safely at their appointments. While these services can be invaluable, they typically come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport companies. These providers offer a range of services, from basic transportation to specialized assistance for patients with specific medical needs. The availability of these services and the associated costs are important considerations when evaluating the Breast Cancer Score for Coinjock.

The Breast Cancer Score for Coinjock, NC (27923) reveals a complex picture. While the community offers a peaceful environment and a lower cost of living, the lack of readily available healthcare services and the limitations of transportation options create significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the absence of a robust public transit system necessitate careful planning and consideration for those seeking breast cancer care.

Moving to Coinjock requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. Prospective residents should research the availability of local healthcare providers, assess the practicality of driving to appointments, and explore the potential for utilizing ride-sharing or medical transportation services. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation methods is crucial.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare access. While Coinjock offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges of navigating the healthcare landscape necessitate a comprehensive understanding of the available resources and a willingness to plan accordingly. This assessment provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer care and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.