28307, Fort Bragg, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28307, Fort Bragg, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.24 percent of residents in 28307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Womack Amc (Ft Bragg) with a distance of 0.60 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28307**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer treatment, is multifaceted. It involves not just the medical expertise available, but also the ease with which a patient can access it. This write-up explores the transportation landscape for individuals residing in ZIP Code 28307, focusing on the accessibility of breast cancer care and how it impacts the overall “Breast Cancer Score” for the area. This analysis considers the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. For those considering moving to Fort Bragg or residing in the surrounding areas, this information offers a crucial perspective on healthcare access.

ZIP Code 28307, encompassing a significant portion of Fayetteville, North Carolina, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the area is relatively well-served by major roadways, public transportation options are limited, and the reliance on personal vehicles is high. This impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as transportation barriers can significantly delay diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**The Road to Care: Driving Dynamics**

The primary arteries for navigating 28307 are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 401, and US Highway 301. These thoroughfares connect the residential areas to the major medical facilities in Fayetteville, including Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and other specialty clinics. Drive times, however, can vary dramatically depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

Traveling from the northern reaches of 28307, near Fort Bragg, to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, located south of the city, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic on I-95 or US 401. Morning and evening commutes, as well as any incidents on the interstate, can significantly extend these drive times. This is a crucial consideration for breast cancer patients who may require frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other treatments.

Furthermore, the accessibility of specialized clinics, such as those offering advanced imaging or surgical procedures, is also determined by driving distances. Patients might need to travel to facilities further afield, potentially adding to the overall burden of transportation. The Breast Cancer Score must account for these travel times, as they directly influence a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides public transportation within the city limits. However, the coverage in 28307 is limited, and routes are not always directly aligned with the locations of major medical facilities. The frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can also be a constraint.

Several bus routes, including Route 1, Route 2, and Route 7, offer some degree of access to medical facilities, but they often require transfers, adding to the travel time and potential inconvenience. The ADA-accessible features on FAST buses, including ramps and priority seating, are a positive aspect, particularly for patients with mobility limitations. However, the overall limitations of the public transit system in terms of coverage and frequency contribute to a lower Breast Cancer Score.

For those considering moving to Fort Bragg and relying on public transportation, careful consideration of the bus routes and their proximity to medical facilities is essential. The reality is that public transit is not a primary mode of transportation for many residents, particularly when dealing with the complexities of breast cancer treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 28307 and offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit. They can be particularly valuable for patients who have difficulty driving or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Firstat Nursing Services and MedTrans, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained staff to assist patients with mobility challenges. While these services can be a lifeline for some, they may not be covered by all insurance plans and can be costly.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can positively impact the Breast Cancer Score. However, these options are not a universal solution, and their accessibility can vary depending on individual circumstances and financial resources.

**The Impact on the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score for 28307 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the overall picture of healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score must consider the following factors: the drive times to major medical facilities, the availability and frequency of public transit routes, the cost and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the specific needs of breast cancer patients, such as the frequency of appointments and the potential for mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Fort Bragg or residing in 28307, the Breast Cancer Score is a critical factor in evaluating the suitability of the area. A lower score indicates greater challenges in accessing care, potentially impacting treatment outcomes and overall quality of life.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

Improving the Breast Cancer Score for 28307 requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes enhancing the public transit system to better serve medical facilities, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for patients, and increasing awareness of available medical transport options.

Furthermore, healthcare providers can play a role by offering telehealth appointments when appropriate, providing transportation assistance programs, and coordinating care to minimize the number of trips required.

By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients, leading to better outcomes and a higher Breast Cancer Score. The goal is to ensure that all residents of 28307, regardless of their transportation circumstances, have equitable access to the care they need. This is especially important for those considering moving to Fort Bragg, ensuring they have a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape.