28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.96 percent of residents in 28351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Laurel Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28351)

The diagnosis of breast cancer, a life-altering event, demands immediate and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Laurel Hill, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28351), the journey to that care necessitates a careful consideration of **transportation** options. This Breast Cancer Score assesses the accessibility of essential breast cancer services, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements influencing **healthcare access** for those facing this formidable disease.

The primary concern for anyone living in Laurel Hill is the distance to specialized breast cancer treatment centers. The nearest comprehensive facilities are located in larger towns, including Laurinburg, Fayetteville, and Pinehurst. These destinations require careful planning and a deep understanding of local **transportation** networks.

The most direct route to Laurinburg, home to Scotland Health Care System, typically involves traveling south on US-401. The drive, covering roughly 10 miles, can take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a relatively manageable commute, offering quicker access to diagnostic services and initial consultations. However, patients will need to account for potential delays, especially during peak hours or due to unforeseen incidents on US-401.

For more advanced treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, residents may need to travel to Fayetteville, roughly 50 miles away. This journey typically involves heading east on US-401, then connecting to I-95 North. The drive, which can take around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, presents a more significant challenge. Traffic congestion on I-95, particularly near Fayetteville, can considerably extend travel times, adding to the stress and fatigue associated with cancer treatment.

Another option is Pinehurst, a renowned medical center. The trip, involving driving west on US-401 and then connecting to NC-211, covers roughly 45 miles. The drive time, around an hour, is subject to traffic conditions and potential delays along the winding roads.

Public transit options in Laurel Hill are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system serving the immediate area. The lack of public **transportation** poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive, do not have access to a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to their illness or treatment side effects. This is a critical consideration for individuals without personal vehicles or those reliant on family or friends for transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Laurel Hill. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, becoming a financial burden, especially for frequent appointments. Patients should be prepared to book rides in advance and confirm availability, especially for early morning appointments or late-night discharges.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transport. These services, while providing door-to-door assistance, can be costly and require pre-booking. They are an essential resource for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatments that impair their ability to drive.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of **transportation** options is a crucial factor. While ride-sharing services strive to accommodate individuals with disabilities, availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles is not guaranteed. Medical transport services typically offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but patients should confirm these features when booking.

The geographical isolation of Laurel Hill presents a significant challenge for **healthcare access**, especially for those battling breast cancer. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant obstacles. This reality underscores the importance of comprehensive care coordination, where healthcare providers proactively assist patients in arranging **transportation** to appointments.

For individuals considering **moving to Laurel Hill**, the availability of healthcare services and the challenges of **transportation** should be a key consideration. The Breast Cancer Score for this area highlights the need for careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare management.

The emotional and physical toll of breast cancer is immense. The added stress of navigating complex **transportation** challenges can significantly impact a patient's well-being. Therefore, the availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** is not just a logistical issue; it's a critical component of quality cancer care.

The Breast Cancer Score for Laurel Hill, NC, highlights the importance of community support. Encouraging family and friends to provide **transportation**, or exploring volunteer driver programs, can significantly improve **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, while Laurel Hill offers a peaceful setting, the **transportation** landscape presents significant challenges for breast cancer patients. The Breast Cancer Score emphasizes the need for careful planning, proactive care coordination, and a strong community support system to ensure that residents have access to the vital healthcare services they need.