28349, Kenansville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.79 percent of residents in 28349 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 2.08 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kenansville (ZIP Code 28349)

The journey to timely breast cancer care is a complex one, often fraught with emotional and logistical hurdles. For residents of Kenansville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28349), these challenges are compounded by the rural nature of the area, impacting **healthcare access** and demanding careful consideration of **transportation** options. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" write-up, explores the realities of accessing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within a reasonable timeframe, considering the specific **transportation** landscape. It's a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Kenansville** or already residing there, especially for women seeking proactive health management.

The foundation of any Breast Cancer Score lies in the accessibility of essential services. This includes access to primary care physicians capable of performing breast exams and referring patients for mammograms, as well as diagnostic centers offering mammography, ultrasound, and potentially biopsies. Furthermore, the availability of oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and support services like chemotherapy infusion centers and physical therapy is critical. The geographical distribution of these resources and the ease with which they can be reached directly impact the score.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: Highways and Byways**

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Kenansville are US-24 and NC-24. These highways are the lifelines connecting residents to larger towns and cities where healthcare facilities are concentrated. The nearest hospital with a dedicated cancer center is Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville itself. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, approximately 60 miles and a drive that can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves NC-24 East, followed by US-17 South.

Other potential destinations include Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, about a 60-mile drive via NC-24 West and I-95 South, and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, roughly 50 miles away, accessible via NC-24 West and I-95 North. These trips, while geographically closer than Wilmington, may involve navigating heavier traffic, especially around Fayetteville. Rural roads like NC-41 and NC-903 offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and may be less well-maintained, adding to the travel time and potential stress.

The drive times themselves are just one piece of the puzzle. The condition of the roads, the availability of parking, and the patient's physical condition all play a role. For individuals undergoing treatment, the fatigue and side effects of chemotherapy or radiation can make even a short drive challenging.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Access**

Public **transportation** options in Kenansville are extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. Duplin County does offer a public **transportation** service, but it is primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance and are often limited in availability. These services are typically geared towards essential trips like medical appointments, but they may not be able to accommodate the complex scheduling needs of cancer treatment, which often involves multiple appointments per week.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While Duplin County's service aims to provide such vehicles, the availability can be restricted, potentially delaying appointments. The lack of fixed-route bus service means that residents are highly reliant on personal vehicles or the limited public **transportation** options, which can be particularly challenging for those without access to a car or unable to drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: A Necessary Supplement**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary significantly. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which tends to be lower in rural areas. The cost of these services can also quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, are another option. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments and can be a valuable resource for those who are unable to drive or lack access to other **transportation**. However, these services often come with a higher price tag, and availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

Several medical **transportation** brands serve the area, including some national providers and local companies. These services can offer door-to-door service, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle. However, the cost can be a significant factor, and insurance coverage may vary.

**The Score and the Implications**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** in Kenansville (ZIP Code 28349), the Breast Cancer Score is likely to be lower than in more urban areas with readily available public **transportation** and a higher density of healthcare facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for long drive times to specialized care centers all contribute to a lower score.

This score has significant implications for residents, particularly those **moving to Kenansville** or newly diagnosed with breast cancer. It highlights the importance of proactive health management, including regular screenings and early detection. It also underscores the need to carefully consider **transportation** options and plan for potential challenges.

For those **moving to Kenansville**, it's crucial to research the healthcare landscape thoroughly. Identify primary care physicians who can provide referrals for mammograms and other diagnostic tests. Explore the availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers. Consider the potential cost of **transportation** when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

For individuals already residing in Kenansville, it's essential to advocate for improved **healthcare access**. This can involve supporting initiatives to expand public **transportation** services, lobbying for increased funding for cancer screening programs, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by rural residents in accessing healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the realities of **healthcare access** in a specific geographical area. For residents of Kenansville, it serves as a call to action, emphasizing the importance of proactive health management, careful planning, and a commitment to overcoming the **transportation** barriers that can stand between them and the care they need.