27928, Creswell, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27928, Creswell, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.56 percent of residents in 27928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hosp Inc with a distance of 17.71 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Creswell, NC (ZIP Code 27928)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates a careful consideration of **transportation** options, the availability of specialized care, and the ease of **healthcare access**. For those considering **moving to Creswell**, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27928), this analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the logistical challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape.

Creswell, a rural community nestled in the heart of North Carolina's Inner Banks, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. This write-up delves into the practicalities of reaching these centers, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of **transportation**.

The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not a singular number but a composite understanding of the accessibility factors. It considers the time commitment involved in reaching various healthcare facilities, the availability of different **transportation** methods, and the potential challenges faced by individuals with mobility limitations. This information empowers potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

### Driving Directions and Time: The Primary Route

For most residents of Creswell, the automobile is the primary mode of **transportation** to medical appointments. The most direct route to the larger hospitals and cancer centers involves navigating the local roads and highways. The primary thoroughfare for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Creswell is US-64, a major east-west artery.

Traveling east on US-64 leads to the city of Plymouth, approximately a 20-minute drive. Plymouth offers some basic medical services, including a hospital, but lacks specialized cancer care. Continuing east on US-64, the next major destination is Washington, NC, a drive of roughly 45 minutes. Washington boasts a regional hospital with some cancer treatment capabilities, potentially including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

The journey to Greenville, NC, a larger city with a more comprehensive cancer center, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This trip typically utilizes US-64 East to US-13 South, then to US-264 West. Greenville's Vidant Medical Center offers a full spectrum of cancer services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care.

For more specialized care, such as clinical trials or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger cities like Norfolk, Virginia, or even Raleigh, North Carolina. The drive to Norfolk, typically via US-17 North, takes approximately 2 hours. Raleigh, accessible via US-64 West, is a drive of about 2 hours and 30 minutes. These longer drives can significantly impact the patient's well-being and add to the overall stress of treatment.

### Public Transit: Limited Options

Public transit options in Creswell and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The primary provider is the Albemarle Rural Transportation System (ARTS). ARTS offers demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service is designed to serve the general public, including individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of ARTS for trips to cancer centers can be challenging.

The scheduling process requires advanced planning, and the service operates within specific hours. This lack of flexibility can be a significant barrier for patients needing frequent appointments. ARTS does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the extended travel times associated with rural public transit, coupled with the need for advance booking, make it a less-than-ideal option for many cancer patients.

The lack of a fixed-route bus system, combined with the limited operating hours of ARTS, presents a significant challenge to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This scarcity highlights the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** solutions.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities of Greenville and Washington, but their presence in Creswell is less reliable. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments is not a dependable solution.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and FirstLight HomeCare provide non-emergency medical **transportation** in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance getting in and out of vehicles. They may also accommodate medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or walkers.

The cost of medical **transportation** services can be a significant factor. While some insurance plans cover these services, others may not. Patients should carefully investigate their insurance coverage and explore potential financial assistance programs.

### Breast Cancer Score Considerations: A Holistic View

The Breast Cancer Score for Creswell (27928) is not a simple numerical value. It's a complex evaluation based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The distance and travel time to the nearest cancer centers. The longer the drive, the lower the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The reliability and accessibility of public transit options, including ADA features. Limited options lower the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and dependability of ride-sharing services. Unreliable services lower the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical **transportation** services. Limited or expensive options lower the score.
* **Patient Mobility:** The ability of the patient to drive or utilize other **transportation** options. Individuals with mobility limitations face greater challenges.

Considering these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Creswell is moderate. While the drive times to Greenville and Washington are manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing pose challenges. The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a valuable alternative, but cost and insurance coverage must be considered.

### Recommendations for Those Considering Moving to Creswell

For individuals considering **moving to Creswell** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment, careful planning is essential.

* **Assess Your Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or your reliance on others for **transportation**.
* **Investigate Insurance Coverage:** Determine your insurance coverage for medical **transportation** services.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research local medical **transportation** providers and their services.
* **Factor in Travel Time:** Account for the time commitment required for travel to and from appointments.
* **Consider Proximity to Care:** If possible, consider the proximity to cancer centers when choosing a home.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactive planning when it comes to **healthcare access** in Creswell. By understanding the **transportation** landscape and taking the necessary steps, individuals can navigate the challenges and prioritize their health and well-being.