28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.61 percent of residents in 28337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 1.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethtown (ZIP Code 28337)

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of transportation options for residents of Elizabethtown, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28337), focusing on their impact on accessing breast cancer care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely and convenient healthcare. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Elizabethtown or currently residing within its boundaries.

Elizabethtown, a charming town nestled in Bladen County, offers a slower pace of life. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access, particularly for specialized treatments like those required for breast cancer. The availability and ease of transportation directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care, making it a critical factor in their overall prognosis.

**Driving Directions: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

For many Elizabethtown residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. Cape Fear Valley Bladen Healthcare, a local hospital, is a crucial starting point. Its proximity to the town center makes it easily accessible for basic medical needs. However, for specialized breast cancer care, patients often need to travel to larger facilities with advanced oncology services.

The most direct route to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a major healthcare hub, involves taking US-701 South to NC-87 East, then merging onto I-95 North. The drive is approximately 40-50 miles and typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This journey is a significant commitment, especially when considering the frequency of appointments during treatment.

Another option is Southeastern Health's Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton. This trip involves taking NC-211 East and then merging onto I-95 South. This drive is shorter, about 20-25 miles, and takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The choice between these two facilities depends on the specific services needed, the patient's insurance coverage, and their personal preferences.

These drive times highlight the importance of having a reliable vehicle and the financial burden of fuel costs and vehicle maintenance. For individuals without personal transportation, these distances pose a significant obstacle to accessing care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Elizabethtown are limited. Bladen County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are designed to serve the general population and may not be specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients. The system offers curb-to-curb service, meaning passengers are picked up and dropped off at their homes or designated locations. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be available for all appointment times.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the public transit system is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. The vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the limited operating hours and the need for advance booking can still pose challenges for patients needing frequent appointments or unexpected treatments.

The lack of extensive public transit infrastructure underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The reliance on public transit can significantly impact a patient's ability to maintain a consistent treatment schedule.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Elizabethtown, but their reliability and availability can vary. The availability of drivers may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This can create delays and uncertainty for patients who rely on these services to get to their appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients with specific needs. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate medical equipment or patients with mobility issues. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and Senior Helpers may offer medical transportation services. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may require advance booking.

These alternative transportation options provide valuable support for patients who cannot drive or who require assistance with mobility. However, the cost and availability of these services can still present challenges, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems to ensure equitable healthcare access.

**The Impact on Breast Cancer Care: A Scorecard**

The transportation landscape in Elizabethtown presents a mixed bag for breast cancer patients. While the town offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the limited healthcare infrastructure and transportation options create significant hurdles. The Breast Cancer Score for Elizabethtown, considering these factors, would be moderate.

The score is affected by the relatively long drive times to specialized cancer centers, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport, which can be costly and unpredictable. The lack of a dedicated cancer center within the immediate vicinity adds to the challenges.

However, the presence of local healthcare facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for medical transport services offer some degree of support. The community's commitment to providing care and support to its residents is also a positive factor.

**Moving to Elizabethtown: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Elizabethtown, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options should be carefully considered, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or those who may require specialized medical care.

Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, explore available options, and research the healthcare facilities and services in the surrounding areas. They should also consider the potential costs associated with transportation and factor these into their financial planning.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The transportation challenges in Elizabethtown highlight the need for improved healthcare access for breast cancer patients. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the development of medical transport services. It also involves fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.

Addressing these challenges is essential to improving the quality of life for breast cancer patients in Elizabethtown and ensuring that they can focus on their health and well-being without being burdened by transportation obstacles. The community's collective effort is vital in creating a supportive environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to access the healthcare they deserve.