28303, Fayetteville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28303, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.32 percent of residents in 28303 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 3.70 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28303

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer treatment, is a multifaceted equation. It encompasses not only the quality of care but also the accessibility of that care. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" if you will, focuses on the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 28303, Fayetteville, North Carolina, a crucial factor in **healthcare access** for residents. It's a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Fayetteville**, weighing their options, or seeking to understand the realities of navigating a diagnosis.

The 28303 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Fayetteville, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding **transportation** to medical facilities. The city, while growing, still relies heavily on personal vehicles, making drive times a primary concern.

For those seeking breast cancer screenings, diagnoses, or treatment, the proximity to specialized facilities is paramount. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is a key destination. Depending on the specific location within 28303, the drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, via major arteries like **Raeford Road** and **Bragg Boulevard**, can range from 10 to 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Rush hour, however, can significantly extend these times, potentially pushing them to 30 minutes or more, particularly along Bragg Boulevard, a heavily trafficked corridor.

Another important medical facility is the FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital-Hoke Campus. Driving to this facility involves traversing **US-401 South** and then **NC-211 East**. The drive time can be around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The drive can be longer during rush hour.

Public transit, while present, presents a more complex picture. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) offers bus routes throughout the city. However, the network's coverage, frequency, and directness to medical facilities are areas for evaluation.

FAST Route 1, running along Raeford Road, offers a degree of accessibility to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. However, the route's frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Furthermore, the reliance on bus stops, which may not be conveniently located for all residents, adds another layer of complexity.

FAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. This is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations, ensuring they can access the system. However, the overall efficiency of public transit, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment, may be insufficient.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Fayetteville. These services offer a degree of flexibility and convenience, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their treatment. The cost, however, can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas of 28303, is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, offer another option. Several companies operate in the Fayetteville area, including specialized medical transport services. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can be a vital lifeline for patients with significant mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may require advance booking.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 28303, therefore, is not a simple numerical value. It's a composite assessment, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant feature, making drive times a critical element. The presence of public transit, while offering an alternative, is limited by route frequency, coverage, and the potential for longer travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable options, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Fayetteville** and those already residing in 28303, a thorough assessment of these transportation options is crucial. Understanding the potential drive times, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The impact of traffic on **Bragg Boulevard** and **Raeford Road** must be factored into the equation. The potential for extended travel times, especially during peak hours, can add significant stress and inconvenience to an already challenging situation.

The distance to specialized facilities, such as those offering advanced imaging or surgical options, is also a critical consideration. Patients may need to travel further afield for certain treatments, adding to the complexity of their transportation needs.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 28303 is a dynamic one. The city is growing, and with that growth comes the potential for improvements in public transit, ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of medical facilities. However, the current reality necessitates a careful evaluation of the available **transportation** options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it's about understanding the lived experience of patients. It's about recognizing the challenges and opportunities that exist within the 28303 ZIP code. It's about empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to navigate the complexities of breast cancer treatment.

The journey to healthcare is not just about the destination; it's about the journey itself. In 28303, that journey requires careful planning, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape, and a proactive approach to ensuring **healthcare access**.