27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.49 percent of residents in 27953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 32.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 9.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Manns Harbor (ZIP Code 27953)

The sun-drenched shores of Manns Harbor, North Carolina, offer a tranquil escape, a haven for those seeking solace and a slower pace of life. Yet, the serenity of this coastal community presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27953, delves into the practicalities of transportation, a pivotal factor in timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Considering the critical need for healthcare access, especially for individuals considering moving to Manns Harbor, this score illuminates the realities of seeking breast cancer care within this unique coastal environment.

The score considers multiple factors: drive times to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities, the availability and practicality of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. Each facet contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents of Manns Harbor. This is not merely an assessment of geographic proximity; it's a deep dive into the lived experience of accessing potentially life-saving care.

The primary concern for residents of 27953 is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located in Elizabeth City, approximately 40 miles away, and in Greenville, roughly 100 miles distant. The journey to Elizabeth City, the more accessible option, typically involves a drive of around 50-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. The route primarily utilizes US-64 East, a well-maintained highway, followed by a turn onto US-17 North. The return trip, often undertaken after a potentially stressful medical appointment, can feel significantly longer.

The drive to Greenville, on the other hand, is a significantly more arduous undertaking. This journey involves navigating US-64 West, a major thoroughfare, followed by a stretch on US-13 North and then onto US-264 West. The drive can take anywhere from two to three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This extended travel time presents a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, requiring frequent appointments. This long commute is a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Manns Harbor are limited. The Outer Banks Dare County Transportation System (OBX Ride) offers some routes, but these primarily serve the Outer Banks and may not directly connect to Elizabeth City or Greenville. The OBX Ride does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service and the routes offered may not be conducive to timely access to medical appointments. Detailed route information, including specific bus numbers and schedules, can be found on the Dare County website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes relying on ride-sharing for crucial medical appointments a risky proposition. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available, but these are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs or those who meet certain eligibility criteria. The cost of these services can be substantial, and prior authorization may be required. Companies like MedTrans or other regional providers may offer NEMT services, but their availability and coverage area should be carefully investigated.

The Breast Cancer Score for Manns Harbor reflects the challenges inherent in accessing specialized care. The long distances to treatment centers, the limited public transportation options, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability all contribute to a lower score. This score underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Manns Harbor, especially those with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk.

For individuals with a breast cancer diagnosis or those seeking preventative care, meticulous planning is essential. This includes identifying the nearest comprehensive breast cancer center, understanding the transportation options available, and exploring potential financial assistance programs to help offset the costs of transportation and treatment.

The community of Manns Harbor, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access. Residents should proactively research local support groups, cancer support organizations, and patient advocacy groups that can provide valuable resources and guidance. These organizations often offer assistance with transportation, financial aid, and emotional support.

The Breast Cancer Score is not intended to discourage anyone from choosing to live in Manns Harbor. Instead, it serves as a vital tool for informed decision-making. By understanding the transportation and healthcare access landscape, residents can proactively address potential challenges and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The beauty of Manns Harbor should be enjoyed with the knowledge and resources to navigate the healthcare system effectively.