28326, Cameron, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.44 percent of residents in 28326 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Carolina Hospital with a distance of 12.74 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cameron, NC (ZIP Code 28326)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of emotion, logistics, and, crucially, accessibility. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Cameron, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28326), delves into the practical realities of transportation and healthcare access, illuminating the potential challenges and opportunities for those facing this formidable disease. It's a guide for anyone considering moving to Cameron, or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare landscape.

Cameron, a charming town nestled in the heart of Moore County, offers a slower pace of life, a draw for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, this tranquility must be balanced against the practicalities of accessing specialized medical care. The availability of timely and convenient transportation is a critical factor in determining the quality of life for breast cancer patients, influencing everything from diagnosis and treatment to ongoing support and follow-up appointments.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many in Cameron, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Pinehurst, Fayetteville, and Raleigh, each presenting unique drive-time considerations. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US-1, NC-211, and NC-24/27.

Pinehurst, home to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, is generally the closest option, reachable via NC-211 and US-1. The drive, typically under 30 minutes in moderate traffic, offers a relatively straightforward route. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute, adding stress and potential delays for appointments.

Fayetteville, with Cape Fear Valley Health, presents a longer journey. The most direct route involves taking US-1 south and then connecting to I-95. The drive, roughly an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, can be significantly impacted by traffic on I-95, known for its unpredictable delays. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration for potential travel time fluctuations.

Raleigh, the furthest option, offers access to UNC Health and Duke Health. The journey, spanning approximately an hour and a half to two hours, involves navigating US-1 and I-95. This extended travel time underscores the importance of careful scheduling, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or follow-up appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in and around Cameron are limited. Moore County offers a demand-response transit service, but its availability and scope are restricted. This service, primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities, requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. The lack of a robust public transit system highlights a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Furthermore, the absence of fixed-route bus services means that patients must rely on the demand-response system, ride-sharing, or personal transportation. The demand-response system, while offering a vital service, is often constrained by scheduling limitations and potential wait times, impacting the timeliness of appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit options. The demand-response service is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but the availability of accessible vehicles and the overall scope of service may still pose challenges. Patients with mobility limitations require reliable and accessible transportation to ensure they can attend appointments and access necessary care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Cameron and the surrounding areas can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients undergoing treatment, adding to the overall stress of their situation.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and other specialized providers, offer a more tailored approach. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. While these services can be a valuable resource, they typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, further compounding the financial challenges faced by breast cancer patients.

**Healthcare Access: The Foundation of a Breast Cancer Score**

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the availability of specialized cancer care, the proximity of treatment centers, and the ease of transportation. In Cameron (28326), the score is influenced by the relatively limited transportation options and the distance to comprehensive cancer centers. While Pinehurst offers a closer option, the reliance on personal vehicles or less-reliable alternatives underscores the need for careful planning and consideration.

Healthcare access extends beyond physical transportation. It encompasses the availability of specialized medical professionals, the presence of support services, and the overall quality of care. Breast cancer patients require access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, as well as supportive services such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.

**Moving to Cameron: A Holistic Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Cameron, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the healthcare landscape. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, potential residents must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges and the distance to specialized cancer care. This assessment should include a thorough understanding of the available transportation options, the associated costs, and the potential impact on appointment scheduling and treatment adherence.

The score also highlights the importance of proactive planning. Prospective residents should research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and support services in the area. They should also consider the potential for traffic delays and the need for reliable transportation to ensure timely access to care.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Support**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Cameron (28326) underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with accessing specialized cancer care require careful consideration. Enhancing transportation options, expanding public transit services, and increasing the availability of affordable medical transportation are crucial steps toward improving the quality of life for breast cancer patients in Cameron and the surrounding communities.

This analysis is not meant to discourage anyone from moving to Cameron. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. By understanding the transportation challenges and the resources available, residents can navigate the complexities of breast cancer care with greater confidence and peace of mind.