27924, Colerain, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27924, Colerain, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.19 percent of residents in 27924 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 11.69 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Colerain, NC (ZIP Code 27924)**

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, requires meticulous planning. For those contemplating a move to Colerain, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27924), understanding the landscape of breast cancer care is crucial. This write-up offers a comprehensive overview of transportation options, drive times, and available resources, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, vital for informed decision-making.

Colerain, a rural community nestled in Bertie County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of specialized breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services, is a significant factor in the quality of life. Assessing transportation options is paramount, as the distance to medical facilities can significantly impact the timeliness of care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The primary mode of transportation in Colerain is the personal vehicle. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel. Drive times are influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination.

For residents of 27924, Vidant Bertie Hospital in Windsor, approximately 15 miles away, is a crucial local resource. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, primarily via US-17. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise due to local traffic.

For more specialized care, including comprehensive breast cancer treatment, patients often travel to larger medical centers in Greenville, NC. This journey, approximately 60 miles, requires approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, primarily via US-17 and US-13. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for regular appointments and treatments.

Another option is the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, about 50 miles, or a 1 hour drive via US-17. This offers another potential option for healthcare access, and the route is generally well-maintained.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Colerain is limited. Bertie County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The absence of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This deficiency underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation options.

While there is no scheduled bus service, the county may offer demand-response transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, often requiring advance booking, may provide limited access to medical appointments. However, the reliability and frequency of these services can be variable.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability in Colerain and the surrounding rural areas may be limited. The cost and availability of these services should be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with medical appointments, are another option. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation and may accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Researching and contacting these services in advance is essential.

**Medical Transportation Brands**

Several medical transportation brands operate in the region, including:

* **Medicaid Transportation:** This service is available for eligible individuals and covers transportation costs to medical appointments.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** While primarily for emergencies, some ambulance services may offer non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Private Medical Transportation Companies:** Several private companies provide specialized transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access encompasses more than just transportation. The availability of specialized breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services, is crucial. Assessing the proximity of these services and the ease of access is essential.

Vidant Bertie Hospital in Windsor offers basic healthcare services, but may not provide the full spectrum of breast cancer care. Patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Greenville or Elizabeth City for specialized treatment.

**Breast Cancer Score: Assessing the Landscape**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment considering transportation, healthcare availability, and support services. This score is not a definitive medical evaluation, but a tool to help potential residents understand the challenges and opportunities.

* **Transportation:** Limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. Ride-sharing availability is variable. Medical transportation services are available but require research and pre-planning.
* **Healthcare Availability:** Local resources are limited, necessitating travel to larger medical centers for specialized breast cancer care.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources may be limited in the immediate vicinity.

**Moving to Colerain: A Considered Decision**

Relocating to Colerain requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit necessitate proactive planning.

Potential residents should research the availability of breast cancer specialists, imaging centers, and treatment facilities in the region. Contacting local hospitals and cancer centers to inquire about transportation assistance and support services is recommended.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

Navigating healthcare access in Colerain, NC (ZIP Code 27924) requires a proactive approach. Understanding the transportation landscape, assessing healthcare availability, and exploring available resources is crucial for making an informed decision. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make a well-informed decision about moving to Colerain, ensuring access to the care they need.