27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.98 percent of residents in 27964 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 14.27 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27964 (Point Harbor, NC)**

Point Harbor, North Carolina, a charming coastal community nestled in Currituck County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move, particularly for those prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape becomes paramount. This assessment, the "Breast Cancer Score," analyzes the commute to essential breast cancer healthcare facilities from ZIP code 27964, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a formal medical tool. It's a practical assessment, a guide to help potential residents understand the ease or difficulty of reaching vital healthcare services. The score considers travel time, accessibility, and available transportation methods, all crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This write-up will help you understand transportation options, as you consider moving to Point Harbor.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Care**

Point Harbor's location, while beautiful, presents certain transportation challenges. The primary arteries connecting Point Harbor to healthcare facilities are US-158 and US-64. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care often necessitates a drive to Elizabeth City or Norfolk, Virginia.

Driving to Elizabeth City, approximately 30 miles away, takes about 45 minutes via US-158. This route is generally straightforward, but traffic can increase during peak season, especially on weekends when tourists flock to the Outer Banks. Consider traffic delays when scheduling appointments or treatments.

Norfolk, Virginia, a major healthcare hub, is roughly 70 miles from Point Harbor. The most direct route involves US-158 and US-64, with an estimated drive time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, without traffic. This drive includes crossing the Wright Memorial Bridge, a potential bottleneck during peak travel periods. The bridge's toll is another factor to consider.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Currituck County are limited. The local transportation system, Currituck County Transportation, provides demand-response services. However, these services are not designed for frequent trips to medical facilities, especially those located outside the immediate area. The service requires advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent appointments or treatments.

There are no fixed-route buses or dedicated public transit lines that directly connect Point Harbor to major healthcare centers in Elizabeth City or Norfolk. This lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. ADA-accessible features are available on Currituck County Transportation vehicles, but availability should be confirmed when booking.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Point Harbor area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Surge pricing during peak times or periods of high demand, especially for trips to distant locations like Norfolk, can significantly increase costs. Booking in advance is recommended, but availability is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance getting in and out of vehicles. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies. Researching insurance coverage for medical transportation is crucial.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Implications**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Point Harbor (27964) reflects the transportation challenges. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options pose a significant hurdle to healthcare access, especially for those requiring regular breast cancer screenings, diagnosis, or treatment. The reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transit necessitate careful planning and consideration when evaluating the area for residency.

The distance to major healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can add stress to an already difficult situation. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services further complicate the equation.

**Moving to Point Harbor: Planning for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Point Harbor, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a high risk, prioritizing healthcare access is critical. Thoroughly researching local healthcare providers, including their specialties and appointment availability, is essential.

Factoring in travel time and transportation costs when budgeting for healthcare expenses is also vital. Exploring all available transportation options, including ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the potential need for a personal vehicle, is crucial.

Living in Point Harbor requires proactive planning. Establishing a strong relationship with healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage for transportation, and being prepared for potential travel delays are all essential strategies for ensuring timely access to breast cancer care. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of thoughtful consideration regarding transportation and healthcare access when choosing to live in this beautiful coastal community.