27970, Roper, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27970, Roper, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.34 percent of residents in 27970 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hosp Inc with a distance of 7.84 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27970

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as formidable as breast cancer, is a complex undertaking. It's a journey that demands not only medical expertise but also the practicalities of access. In the rural landscape of ZIP Code 27970, encompassing the town of Roper, North Carolina, the "Breast Cancer Score" considers the crucial element of transportation. This score evaluates the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This is a critical factor for anyone moving to Roper or currently residing there, seeking to understand their healthcare access.

The primary challenge in 27970 is its relative isolation. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in cities like Greenville, approximately 60 miles away, or Norfolk, Virginia, roughly 80 miles distant. These distances, coupled with the limited transportation options, significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

Driving is the most prevalent mode of transportation. The primary arteries connecting Roper to these healthcare hubs are US-64 and US-17. A drive to Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, typically takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 27970. The route primarily follows US-64 East.

Reaching Norfolk, where Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and other facilities offer advanced cancer care, involves a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via US-17 North. This longer drive adds fatigue and potential stress, particularly for patients undergoing treatment. The condition of these roads, and the availability of parking at the destination, also impacts the overall experience.

Public transportation options are severely limited in 27970. There is no established public bus system that directly serves the town or provides regular routes to Greenville or Norfolk. This lack of public transit dramatically lowers the Breast Cancer Score, as it excludes individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The absence of accessible public transportation also impacts elderly individuals and those with disabilities, adding another layer of complexity to their healthcare journey.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments or treatments is therefore unreliable, and the cost can accumulate significantly over time, impacting the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and local ambulance services may provide non-emergency medical transport. However, availability varies, and these services often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans. The cost, again, is a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of local healthcare facilities. While 27970 may have a local clinic or primary care physician, the availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as mammography, biopsy, and chemotherapy, is highly unlikely. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation.

For individuals moving to Roper, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the necessity of careful planning. Prospective residents should thoroughly research their transportation options and assess their ability to manage the travel requirements associated with breast cancer care. This includes considering the financial implications of transportation costs, the potential need for assistance from family or friends, and the overall impact on their quality of life.

The "Breast Cancer Score" in 27970 is significantly impacted by the limited transportation infrastructure. The long distances to specialized medical centers, the lack of public transportation, and the reliance on potentially unreliable or costly alternatives like ride-sharing or medical transport, contribute to a lower score. This score underscores the importance of proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation, understanding insurance coverage for medical transport, and building a support network to navigate the challenges of accessing breast cancer care in this rural environment.

The journey to healthcare is not merely a medical one; it's also a logistical challenge. The Breast Cancer Score in 27970 reflects this reality, highlighting the critical role of transportation in ensuring equitable access to life-saving care. The ability to reach these services efficiently and affordably is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access, and in the context of breast cancer, it can be a matter of life and death. The score serves as a vital reminder of the challenges faced by residents of rural communities and the importance of addressing these barriers to ensure everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need.