27932, Edenton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27932, Edenton, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.82 percent of residents in 27932 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Chowan Hospital with a distance of 0.35 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27932

The quaint charm of Edenton, North Carolina, nestled along the Albemarle Sound, beckons with its historic homes and tranquil atmosphere. However, when considering a move to this idyllic locale, especially for those concerned about healthcare access, a thorough understanding of the local breast cancer care landscape is crucial. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27932, delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access, providing a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making.

This score goes beyond simple statistics, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within and around Edenton. It considers the critical role of transportation, the backbone of healthcare access, and assesses the availability of various options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services.

The primary factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score is the proximity to comprehensive breast cancer care. In Edenton (27932), the closest facilities offering full-spectrum services, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy, are located in Elizabeth City and Greenville, North Carolina. This necessitates reliance on transportation to access these vital resources.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare in this area is the personal vehicle. From Edenton, the drive to Elizabeth City, home to Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, typically takes around 45 minutes, covering approximately 35 miles. The journey involves navigating primarily on US-17 South, a well-maintained highway. Traffic congestion is generally minimal, contributing to reliable drive times.

For more specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, residents may need to travel to Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, a larger regional referral center. This drive, primarily on US-17 South and US-64 East, covers approximately 80 miles and can take between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

The condition of these roadways is generally good, contributing to a smoother journey. However, during hurricane season or severe weather events, the potential for road closures or delays should be considered. This underscores the importance of planning and having backup transportation options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Edenton and the surrounding areas are limited. The Albemarle Commission provides some public transportation services, but these are primarily focused on providing transportation for the elderly and disabled. The routes are not designed for frequent, convenient access to healthcare facilities, and the schedules may not align with appointment times.

The availability of public transit is an area that significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive face considerable challenges in accessing timely healthcare. The lack of frequent, direct routes to Elizabeth City or Greenville necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods.

ADA accessibility on the existing public transit options should be confirmed with the Albemarle Commission. This is a critical factor for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are typically required.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Researching the specific medical transport brands operating in the area is essential. This involves contacting local hospitals and healthcare providers for recommendations. It is crucial to inquire about their service areas, pricing, and accessibility features.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 27932 is not solely determined by drive times or transportation options. It also considers the availability of healthcare providers, the cost of care, and the overall healthcare infrastructure.

The presence of a local hospital in Elizabeth City, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, is a significant advantage. It offers a range of services, including mammography and diagnostic imaging. However, for more complex cases, patients may need to travel to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville.

The cost of healthcare, including transportation expenses, can be a significant barrier for many individuals. Understanding insurance coverage, accessing financial assistance programs, and exploring options for reduced-cost care are essential.

**Moving to Edenton: A Balanced Perspective:**

For those considering moving to Edenton, the Breast Cancer Score provides a balanced perspective on healthcare access. The area offers a peaceful lifestyle and a close-knit community. However, the limited transportation options and the distance to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities require careful consideration.

Individuals with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and explore all available options. This includes assessing the availability of family support, the feasibility of using ride-sharing services, and the potential costs of medical transportation.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactive planning. Before relocating, prospective residents should research local healthcare providers, understand their insurance coverage, and identify potential transportation solutions.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need. The beauty of Edenton can be enjoyed with a clear understanding of the realities of healthcare access, allowing for a smoother transition and a healthier future.