27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.71 percent of residents in 27978 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 18.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stumpy Point (ZIP Code 27978)

The shimmering waters of the Albemarle Sound and the vast expanse of the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge define the remote beauty of Stumpy Point, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27978). This isolated haven, however, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those facing the daunting prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding the complexities of transportation is paramount for anyone considering moving to Stumpy Point or already residing within its embrace. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access in this unique coastal community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the critical factors: drive times to diagnostic and treatment facilities, the availability and practicality of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options. Each factor is weighted to reflect its impact on a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care. The higher the score, the better the access. In Stumpy Point, the score reflects the geographical realities of a rural environment.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Stumpy Point is, undeniably, the personal vehicle. The absence of local hospitals and specialized cancer centers necessitates travel to larger towns and cities. The drive times, therefore, become a crucial determinant of the "Breast Cancer Score."

The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Nags Head, approximately 35 miles east. The primary route is via US-64 East, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Nags Head. This time can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during hurricanes or nor'easters, which are common in this coastal region.

Further afield, the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately 60 miles northwest, offers a broader range of services, including some cancer care. The journey involves taking US-64 West, a similar two-lane highway, and can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer drive adds to the physical and emotional burden on patients undergoing treatment.

Accessing specialized cancer centers, such as those in Greenville or Norfolk, Virginia, requires significantly longer travel times. Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, is approximately 100 miles west, a drive of roughly 2 hours. Norfolk, with its comprehensive cancer care facilities, is around 120 miles north, a journey that can take up to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. These extended travel times necessitate careful planning, especially for frequent appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Stumpy Point and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The Outer Banks Dare County Transportation System (ODCTS) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are geared towards general public needs and are not specifically designed to address the demands of cancer patients.

The ODCTS operates a demand-response system, requiring advance booking. This system can be utilized for trips within Dare County, including to some medical appointments. However, the service operates on limited hours and may not be available for early morning appointments or late-night treatments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is not guaranteed, and the long wait times can be a significant burden.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," particularly for those who cannot drive or who face financial constraints. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier to healthcare access, especially for patients who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects of treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Outer Banks, but their coverage in Stumpy Point is inconsistent. Availability is heavily dependent on driver availability, which can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for some patients. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, these services often come with a higher price tag, and insurance coverage can vary. Some medical transport providers operating in the region include First Flight Medical Transport and Care Ride. These companies can be a valuable resource, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for Stumpy Point**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Stumpy Point (ZIP Code 27978) is relatively low. The remote location, limited public transit, and inconsistent ride-sharing services create significant transportation challenges for breast cancer patients. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the long drive times to medical facilities, can add to the physical and emotional strain of treatment.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Stumpy Point requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, including dedicated routes to medical facilities and increased ADA-accessible vehicles, would significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score." Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transportation services and advocating for expanded insurance coverage for these services is crucial.

For individuals considering moving to Stumpy Point, it is essential to thoroughly assess their transportation needs and plan for potential challenges in accessing healthcare. Understanding the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure and exploring all available options is critical for ensuring timely and consistent access to care. The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough; mitigating the transportation obstacles is a vital step in supporting patients on their path to recovery.