27944, Hertford, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27944, Hertford, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.32 percent of residents in 27944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Chowan Hospital with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hertford, NC (ZIP Code 27944)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a condition as serious as breast cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not just the medical appointments themselves, but also the crucial element of *transportation*. In Hertford, North Carolina (ZIP code 27944), a town nestled in the northeastern reaches of the state, understanding the *transportation* landscape is vital for anyone seeking or undergoing breast cancer treatment. This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score,' evaluating *healthcare access* through the lens of *transportation* options, aiding prospective residents and current community members alike.

The primary concern is the availability of comprehensive breast cancer care within a reasonable distance. While Hertford itself has limited medical facilities, the nearest hospitals equipped to handle diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are located in neighboring towns and cities. This necessitates a reliance on various *transportation* methods, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Open Road and Its Challenges**

The most common mode of *transportation* in Hertford is the personal vehicle. The major arteries connecting Hertford to larger medical centers are US-17, a vital north-south corridor, and NC-37, which provides east-west access. Driving times are influenced by traffic, which is generally light in this rural area, but can be affected by seasonal tourism and occasional accidents.

The closest major hospital with a dedicated cancer center is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US-17 North. This is a relatively accessible option for initial consultations, imaging, and some chemotherapy treatments. However, for more specialized services like radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients may need to travel further.

For more comprehensive care, the next likely destination is Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute to 1 hour and 30-minute drive. This journey typically involves taking US-17 South, then transitioning onto US-13 North and eventually US-264 West. Greenville offers a wider array of specialists, advanced treatment options, and clinical trials.

Finally, for patients seeking access to nationally recognized cancer centers, the drive to Duke Cancer Institute in Durham (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes) or UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill (approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes) is a reality. These longer drives, often involving I-95 or US-64, can be physically and emotionally draining, particularly for patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Hertford and the surrounding area are extremely limited. The local *transportation* system, if any, may not offer routes that directly serve medical facilities. This poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive due to their illness or other limitations.

The lack of robust public *transportation* underscores the importance of exploring alternative *transportation* solutions for *healthcare access*. The absence of easily accessible public transit impacts the Breast Cancer Score negatively, especially for those with mobility issues or financial constraints.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hertford, but their reliability and availability may vary. During off-peak hours or in inclement weather, securing a ride can be challenging, potentially delaying or disrupting medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, especially those requiring frequent trips.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private companies, are another option. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, often providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility needs. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public *transportation*.

Several medical *transportation* brands may operate in the area, including but not limited to, FirstLight Home Care, and some local ambulance services. Researching these options, including their pricing, service areas, and insurance coverage, is essential for anyone needing *transportation* assistance.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible *transportation* is paramount. This includes vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, as well as drivers trained to assist passengers with mobility challenges. When evaluating *transportation* options, it is crucial to inquire about ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance.

The lack of ADA-compliant public *transportation* in Hertford exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Patients should carefully assess the accessibility of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* providers to ensure they can safely and comfortably attend their appointments.

**Moving to Hertford: A Healthcare Access Assessment**

For those considering *moving to Hertford*, the *healthcare access* landscape should be a significant factor in their decision. While the town offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the limited *transportation* options to medical facilities present a potential hurdle for individuals with health concerns, especially those with breast cancer.

Before *moving to Hertford*, prospective residents should research the availability of *transportation* assistance programs, such as those offered by local charities or government agencies. They should also assess their ability to drive or access alternative *transportation* options, considering the potential costs and time commitments involved.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Summary**

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Hertford, NC (ZIP code 27944) is moderate. While the proximity to Elizabeth City offers relatively convenient access to some medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public *transportation* pose challenges. The longer drives to Greenville, Durham, or Chapel Hill for specialized care further complicate *healthcare access*.

The Breast Cancer Score is impacted by the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services, but their cost and reliability can be barriers. The absence of robust ADA-compliant public *transportation* is a significant concern for individuals with disabilities.

For anyone facing or anticipating a breast cancer diagnosis, the ability to secure reliable and affordable *transportation* is crucial. Careful planning, including researching *transportation* options, exploring financial assistance programs, and assessing the accessibility of services, is essential to ensure timely and effective *healthcare access* in Hertford.