27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.99 percent of residents in 27942 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 10.66 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27942

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is more than just a medical appointment. It’s a complex tapestry woven with threads of time, distance, and available transportation options. This analysis, a 'Breast Cancer Score' for residents of Harrellsville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27942), considers the critical factors influencing healthcare access, specifically for breast cancer care, and offers insights for those considering moving to this rural community.

Harrellsville, nestled in the heart of Hertford County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities offering breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating a reliance on various modes of transportation. Understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount for residents and those contemplating a move, ensuring they can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 27942 is personal vehicles. The drive to the nearest hospitals equipped to handle breast cancer care involves navigating a network of highways and roads. To reach Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, a journey of approximately 20 miles, one would typically travel via NC-461 and US-13. The drive time, depending on traffic and weather conditions, averages around 30 to 45 minutes. This is the closest facility, offering a range of services, including mammograms and potentially some initial treatment options.

For more specialized care, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, residents often need to travel further. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately 45 miles away, presents a more comprehensive option. The route involves taking NC-461 to US-17 South, a drive that can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This journey necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

The drive to larger hospitals in Norfolk, Virginia, such as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital or the EVMS Breast Care Center, can be a significantly longer undertaking. These facilities, roughly 70 to 80 miles away, offer specialized treatment options and access to clinical trials. The route involves traveling on US-17 North to I-64 East, a trip that can take up to two hours, depending on traffic, especially during peak commuting times. This long commute underscores the importance of considering the time commitment when planning appointments and treatments.

Public transportation options in 27942 are limited. Hertford County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to health conditions. This scarcity of public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural areas can be inconsistent. While these services can provide a convenient option for some, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of these services needs to be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be a vital resource for individuals needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. However, it is essential to research the specific services available in the area, including their coverage and cost.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 27942, therefore, reflects a landscape where personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to the nearest hospitals offering breast cancer care are manageable, but the distances to more comprehensive facilities can be significant. The lack of public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services highlight the challenges faced by individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but careful planning and research are essential. For those considering moving to Harrellsville, understanding these transportation dynamics is critical. It is essential to factor in the travel time to medical appointments, the availability of transportation options, and the associated costs.

Healthcare access, in the context of breast cancer care, is not merely about the availability of medical facilities. It is also about the ability to reach those facilities in a timely and affordable manner. The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 27942 emphasizes the importance of considering all these factors when assessing the overall quality of life and healthcare accessibility in this rural community.

The decision to move to Harrellsville should include a thorough assessment of one's individual transportation needs and potential healthcare requirements. The journey to healthcare is a critical component of overall well-being, and understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for navigating the healthcare system effectively.