27954, Manteo, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27954, Manteo, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.45 percent of residents in 27954 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 3.86 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Manteo, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27954)**

The picturesque coastal town of Manteo, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 27954, offers a tranquil lifestyle, attracting those seeking respite and a slower pace. However, the serenity of this Outer Banks haven must be balanced with the practicalities of daily life, especially when considering healthcare access. This assessment focuses on the critical aspect of transportation, particularly for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Understanding the available transportation options is paramount, ensuring timely access to vital medical services and ultimately, contributing to a positive patient experience. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Manteo considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this unique community.

For residents of Manteo, the primary route to healthcare facilities outside the immediate vicinity involves traversing the roadways. The most direct path to larger medical centers typically involves utilizing US-64, a vital artery connecting the Outer Banks to the mainland. Heading west on US-64, one can reach the Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City, a regional healthcare provider. The drive to Albemarle Hospital is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute journey, depending on traffic conditions, which can fluctuate significantly during peak tourist seasons. This drive time is crucial for patients requiring regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or urgent medical attention.

Another option involves traveling south on US-64, then merging onto US-158, leading to the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head. This drive, while shorter at approximately 30 minutes, offers a more immediate healthcare option. However, the Outer Banks Hospital is a smaller facility, and patients may need to travel further for specialized breast cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy, which are often unavailable locally.

The secondary roads, such as NC-12, offer scenic routes but are generally not recommended for frequent medical appointments. These roads can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons, and are often subject to weather-related closures, particularly during hurricanes or nor’easters. Therefore, relying solely on these secondary roads for healthcare access is not advisable, especially for patients undergoing treatment who require consistent and reliable transportation.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 27954 are limited. The Dare County Transportation System provides bus services, but the routes and schedules may not be conducive to frequent medical appointments. While the system aims to serve the entire county, the routes may not directly connect to specialized cancer care facilities, and the frequency of service may be insufficient for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. However, the limited coverage and potential wait times associated with public transit in this area present a significant challenge for patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Manteo area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. Patients relying on ride-sharing must factor in potential wait times and the possibility of surge pricing, which can significantly increase the cost of transportation. The reliability of these services is a key consideration, as missed appointments due to transportation issues can have serious consequences for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Specialized medical transport services, such as Med-Trans or private ambulance companies, offer a crucial lifeline for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transportation. These services provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring that patients can safely and comfortably reach their medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary, potentially creating a financial burden for patients. The availability of these services, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments, is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Manteo, the availability and reliability of transportation options should be a paramount consideration. The distance to specialized cancer care facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing all contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for this community. While the scenic beauty and tranquil lifestyle of Manteo are undeniable, prospective residents must carefully weigh these advantages against the practical realities of healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Manteo, considering transportation factors, would likely be moderate. While the Outer Banks Hospital offers immediate care, the need to travel to Elizabeth City for more specialized treatments presents a significant challenge. The limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of specialized medical transport further impact the score.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the importance of proactive planning and awareness. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer in Manteo must develop a robust transportation strategy, considering all available options and planning for potential challenges. This may involve coordinating with family and friends, exploring financial assistance programs to cover transportation costs, or utilizing the services of specialized medical transport providers.

The healthcare landscape of Manteo is constantly evolving. Efforts to improve healthcare access, such as expanding public transit routes or attracting more specialized medical services, would significantly enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community. In the meantime, residents must remain informed and proactive in navigating the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access, ensuring that they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The journey to recovery is challenging enough; removing transportation barriers is a crucial step in supporting patients through their fight against breast cancer.