27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.59 percent of residents in 27974 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Shiloh, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27974)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It involves not only the emotional toll of the disease itself but also the practical considerations of accessing treatment, support, and follow-up care. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Shiloh, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27974), evaluating the ease with which they can access essential breast cancer services. This score considers transportation options, drive times, and the availability of various modes of travel, painting a picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Shiloh or already residing within its boundaries.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single numerical value, but a composite assessment. It weighs factors like proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, the reliability of transportation options, and the availability of support services. This score aims to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in 27974 seeking breast cancer care.

**Transportation: The Lifeline to Care**

Transportation is the foundational pillar of healthcare access. For residents of Shiloh, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit, dictates that a car is often the primary mode of transportation. This impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who may not drive due to age, illness, or financial constraints.

Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers requires careful planning. The most direct route often involves navigating US-158, a vital artery connecting Shiloh to Elizabeth City and beyond. Depending on the destination and traffic conditions, drive times to major medical facilities can vary. For example, a trip to Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, which offers cancer care, could take approximately 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Further specialized care might necessitate a drive to larger hospitals in Norfolk or Greenville, potentially increasing travel time to over an hour, depending on traffic and the chosen route, likely involving US-17 or US-64.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 27974 are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle face considerable challenges. The availability of public transit is a critical factor in healthcare access, and its scarcity in Shiloh presents a significant hurdle.

While specific bus routes and schedules are not readily available within the immediate vicinity of Shiloh, residents may need to rely on regional services that might not directly serve the area. This necessitates careful planning and coordination, potentially involving multiple transfers and extended travel times. The lack of ADA-accessible features on available public transit further compounds the challenges for individuals with disabilities, directly affecting their ability to access vital healthcare services.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Shiloh can be inconsistent and subject to surge pricing, potentially making them an expensive option for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a key consideration in the Breast Cancer Score, as it impacts the predictability and affordability of transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, can provide a crucial lifeline. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may serve the Shiloh area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs that can add to the financial burden of healthcare.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Specialization**

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities. The availability of comprehensive cancer centers, including those specializing in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support services, is a critical factor. The distance to these facilities, the availability of specialists, and the range of services offered all influence the score.

Elizabeth City, with its medical facilities, offers a degree of local healthcare access. However, specialized services may require travel to larger medical centers in Norfolk or Greenville, necessitating longer drive times and potentially impacting the patient's overall well-being. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators in the local area also plays a crucial role in the Breast Cancer Score, as these services can significantly improve the patient experience.

**Moving to Shiloh: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Shiloh, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable perspective on healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized medical facilities must be carefully considered. Potential residents should research the availability of transportation services, assess their ability to drive, and explore the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of planning for healthcare needs. It underscores the necessity of establishing a reliable transportation plan, understanding the availability of local support services, and considering the potential impact of travel time on treatment and follow-up care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The Breast Cancer Score for 27974 reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for extended travel times to specialized medical facilities all contribute to the overall score.

While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis must carefully consider the logistical complexities of healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape, exploring available resources, and planning for potential challenges, residents of Shiloh can navigate their healthcare journey with greater confidence and resilience. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical services; it's also about the ability to get there.