27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.33 percent of residents in 27948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 6.66 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kill Devil Hills, NC (ZIP Code 27948)**

The sun-drenched Outer Banks of North Carolina, with its windswept dunes and charming coastal towns, beckons many. Yet, the idyllic landscape presents unique challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape in and around Kill Devil Hills (ZIP Code 27948), focusing on how easily residents can access vital medical services. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Kill Devil Hills or currently residing there, especially those managing or at risk for breast cancer.

The core of this assessment revolves around transportation, a critical element of healthcare access. A successful breast cancer journey demands consistent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The ability to reliably reach these appointments, whether by car, public transit, or other means, significantly impacts a patient's well-being and treatment outcomes. This score will assess the available options, considering drive times, public transit accessibility, and alternative transportation services.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many in Kill Devil Hills, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The town is relatively car-dependent, with limited public transit options. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Kill Devil Hills are US-158 and NC-12. These roads are generally well-maintained but can experience increased traffic during peak tourist seasons, potentially extending travel times.

The closest major medical facilities are in Nags Head and Elizabeth City. Driving to the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, a crucial local resource, typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive primarily utilizes US-158 and a portion of NC-12. For more specialized care, residents often travel to Elizabeth City, approximately an hour's drive via US-158 West. This longer drive requires careful planning, especially for those undergoing frequent treatments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the average drive times, factoring in potential traffic delays and the availability of parking at each facility. The ease of parking, a seemingly minor detail, can significantly impact a patient's experience, particularly for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in Kill Devil Hills is limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The Dare County Transportation System (DCTS) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while available, may not always align with the immediate needs of a patient, especially for unexpected appointments or urgent care situations.

The DCTS operates various routes, but their frequency and coverage are limited, particularly in the off-season. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the accessibility of DCTS routes to key medical facilities, including the Outer Banks Hospital and any oncology practices. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is also a crucial factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. The limited nature of public transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those without other options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Kill Devil Hills, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the reliability of ride-sharing services and their cost-effectiveness for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another consideration. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, but their availability and pricing vary. The "Breast Cancer Score" will identify these services and evaluate their accessibility and cost-effectiveness for breast cancer patients.

**The Score: A Holistic View of Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" will integrate all these factors, creating a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Kill Devil Hills. The score will consider the following:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** Average drive times to key medical facilities, including hospitals, oncology centers, and diagnostic imaging centers.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, coverage, and ADA compliance of public transit routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Options:** The reliability, cost, and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Parking Availability:** The ease of parking at medical facilities.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance to pharmacies for prescriptions.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to healthcare. The assessment will also provide specific recommendations for improving healthcare access in the area, such as advocating for expanded public transit services or promoting the availability of medical transportation assistance.

**Impact on Moving to Kill Devil Hills**

For individuals considering moving to Kill Devil Hills, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides critical information. It allows prospective residents to assess the practicality of accessing necessary medical care. The score will help individuals make informed decisions about their relocation, considering their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities.

The score also serves as a valuable resource for current residents. It empowers individuals to understand their healthcare access options and advocate for improvements in the local transportation infrastructure. By highlighting the challenges and opportunities, the "Breast Cancer Score" aims to promote a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for all residents of Kill Devil Hills, particularly those navigating the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. The goal is to ensure that transportation does not become an insurmountable barrier to receiving timely and effective care.