27962, Plymouth, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27962, Plymouth, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.53 percent of residents in 27962 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hosp Inc with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plymouth, NC (ZIP Code 27962)

The diagnosis of breast cancer can feel like a sudden, unwelcome detour. Navigating the complexities of treatment, from initial screenings to ongoing care, demands clear pathways. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Plymouth, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27962), focusing on transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors for those facing this challenge. The score aims to illuminate the landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

Plymouth, nestled in the heart of northeastern North Carolina, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting means healthcare access is often intertwined with the availability and efficiency of transportation. The Breast Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive understanding of the resources available. This information is particularly vital for anyone considering moving to Plymouth, offering a glimpse into the practicalities of healthcare access within the community.

**The Score's Components:**

The Breast Cancer Score is a composite measure, evaluating several key areas:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Facilities:** This assesses the time required to reach facilities offering breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
* **Public Transit Options:** This evaluates the availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation, including ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** This explores the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) and specialized medical transport providers.
* **Facility Accessibility:** This examines the ease of navigation within healthcare facilities, including parking, wheelchair access, and other features.

Each component is assigned a score, and these scores are then combined to generate an overall Breast Cancer Score. The higher the score, the better the access to healthcare, reflecting a more supportive environment for individuals dealing with breast cancer.

**Drive Times: The Open Road to Care**

For residents of 27962, the journey to comprehensive breast cancer care often begins on the open road. The nearest facilities offering mammograms and other diagnostic services are located in neighboring towns and cities.

The primary route to healthcare facilities is typically via US-64, a major east-west artery. Depending on the destination, this route can lead to Washington, NC, approximately 30 miles west. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, averages about 45 minutes. This travel time is a significant factor, as it necessitates careful planning and consideration, especially for frequent appointments.

Another option is to travel south on US-64, eventually connecting to US-17. This route provides access to medical facilities in Elizabeth City, NC, approximately 50 miles away. The drive time to Elizabeth City averages about an hour, contingent on traffic and road conditions.

For those seeking specialized treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the drive times may increase significantly. Depending on the specific services required, patients might need to travel to Greenville, NC, or even Norfolk, VA. These journeys can involve considerable travel time, potentially exceeding one and a half hours. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation for individuals managing breast cancer.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options within 27962 and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Albemarle Regional Transportation Authority (ARTA). ARTA offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is crucial for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

ARTA operates on a fixed-route system, with routes that may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The availability of ARTA is dependent on the location of the healthcare facility and the rider's origin.

The ARTA system is ADA compliant, providing accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and the need for advance scheduling can pose challenges for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available public transportation highlights the critical role of other transportation options.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the region, but their availability in Plymouth is not guaranteed. The service area is often dependent on driver availability and demand. Patients can use ride-sharing services for transportation to and from medical appointments.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, are available in the area. These services offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The cost of these services can vary, and insurance coverage may be available.

**Facility Accessibility: Navigating the Healthcare Environment**

The accessibility of healthcare facilities is a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. Facilities in the region generally adhere to ADA guidelines, providing accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. However, it is always recommended to confirm specific accessibility features with each facility.

**The Breast Cancer Score for 27962:**

Based on the analysis, the Breast Cancer Score for 27962 is **moderate**. While the drive times to certain healthcare facilities are reasonable, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transport services helps to mitigate some of these challenges.

**Implications and Recommendations:**

The moderate Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals in 27962 facing breast cancer.

* **Transportation Planning:** Prioritize reliable transportation. This may involve personal vehicles, family and friends, or medical transport services.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering drive times and potential traffic delays.
* **Resource Awareness:** Familiarize yourself with the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Facility Research:** Contact healthcare facilities in advance to confirm accessibility features and services.
* **Community Support:** Build a strong support network of family, friends, and community organizations.

**Conclusion: A Journey of Resilience**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Plymouth, NC, for breast cancer treatment requires understanding the available transportation options. While challenges exist, particularly regarding public transit, the community offers resources to support individuals on their journey. By carefully considering drive times, exploring available services, and building a strong support network, residents of 27962 can navigate the complexities of breast cancer care and access the healthcare they need. This Breast Cancer Score provides a starting point for informed decision-making, empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being.