28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 28357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 9.60 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of Lumber Bridge, North Carolina (ZIP code 28357), the journey to healthcare access is multifaceted, influenced by the geography of this rural community. This write-up assesses the availability of breast cancer-related services, considering transportation options, drive times, and the overall challenges in navigating healthcare access. It paints a picture of the realities facing individuals and families, especially those considering moving to Lumber Bridge.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care in Lumber Bridge itself is limited. The nearest comprehensive facilities are located in the surrounding towns and cities, primarily Fayetteville and Lumberton. This necessitates a reliance on transportation. For those with a personal vehicle, the drive to Fayetteville, the largest nearby city, involves navigating several roads and highways. From Lumber Bridge, one typically takes NC-71 to I-95 South. The drive, depending on traffic, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, covering roughly 30 miles. This route is generally well-maintained, but the potential for delays due to accidents or construction should always be factored into the planning of medical appointments.

Alternatively, a trip to Lumberton requires traveling on NC-71 to NC-41 South. The drive is shorter, around 20 minutes, covering approximately 15 miles. This route is less congested than the I-95 corridor, but it is also more susceptible to delays due to local traffic and the narrower roads. The condition of these local roads can vary, especially after periods of inclement weather, potentially impacting transportation.

Public transportation options in Lumber Bridge are limited. The primary provider in the area is the Fayetteville Area System for Transit (FAST). However, FAST’s routes primarily serve Fayetteville and do not directly extend into Lumber Bridge. Residents would need to arrange transportation to a FAST bus stop, which might involve a ride-sharing service or a personal vehicle. ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and designated seating, are available on FAST buses, but the lack of direct routes from Lumber Bridge presents a significant barrier for those without personal transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability and reliability can vary, particularly in rural locations. The cost of these services can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or First Medical Transportation, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they typically require advance booking and may not be readily available for immediate needs.

The availability of these transportation options directly impacts healthcare access. Delays in transportation can lead to missed appointments, which can negatively affect treatment outcomes. For individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the cumulative effect of travel time and the physical demands of transportation can be significant. The stress of navigating transportation adds another layer of complexity to an already difficult situation.

Healthcare access is further influenced by the availability of breast cancer specialists. Oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists are often concentrated in larger medical centers, requiring travel for consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment. The distance to these specialists can create a barrier for those without reliable transportation. The ability to secure appointments promptly, the availability of follow-up care, and the overall coordination of care are all influenced by transportation challenges.

The financial implications of transportation are also significant. The costs of gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation can quickly add up, placing a financial burden on patients and their families. For those with limited incomes or without adequate insurance coverage, these costs can be a major obstacle to accessing care. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or local hospitals, can help alleviate some of these burdens, but they may not fully cover the costs of transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Lumber Bridge, the availability of healthcare access should be a key factor in their decision. The need for reliable transportation, the potential for long drive times, and the limited public transportation options all contribute to a complex healthcare landscape. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs, research the availability of healthcare services, and consider the financial implications of accessing care.

The community plays a vital role in supporting individuals with breast cancer. Local organizations, churches, and support groups can provide assistance with transportation, offer emotional support, and connect patients with resources. The development of community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with ride-sharing services, can help improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, the breast cancer score for Lumber Bridge reflects the challenges and complexities of navigating healthcare access in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a complex landscape. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including improving public transportation options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and strengthening community support systems. By understanding these complexities, residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers can work together to improve healthcare access and support individuals facing the challenges of breast cancer. The journey to healthcare access is a critical one, and its ease or difficulty significantly impacts the lives of those in need.