28363, Marston, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.77 percent of residents in 28363 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.99 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marston, NC (ZIP Code 28363)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Marston, North Carolina (ZIP code 28363), understanding the accessibility of breast cancer treatment becomes paramount. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score” if you will, explores the transportation landscape, a critical factor in healthcare access, for those facing this challenge. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a detailed picture of how easily one can navigate the healthcare system while moving to Marston.

The ability to reach medical facilities for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care is a fundamental aspect of the Breast Cancer Score. The time spent traveling, the ease of the journey, and the available transportation options directly impact a patient's well-being and treatment adherence. This score aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer care in Marston.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Marston is likely to be FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, roughly 25 miles away. The most direct route is via US-1 South. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes around 35-45 minutes. This route offers a relatively straightforward journey, but it’s important to consider potential delays due to traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.

Another option involves taking NC-211 South, which connects to US-1. This route, though slightly longer in distance, offers an alternative in case of traffic congestion on US-1. The drive time on this route is also approximately 40-50 minutes. Both routes are well-maintained, but the rural nature of the area means that emergency services might take longer to arrive in case of an accident.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive to larger medical centers in Fayetteville, about 50 miles away, becomes necessary. This journey primarily involves taking US-1 South to I-95 North. The drive time can range from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. I-95, a major interstate highway, is prone to congestion, particularly during rush hour and on weekends.

The drive to Raleigh, home to major medical institutions, is a more significant undertaking. The trip, approximately 90 miles, involves taking US-1 South to US-1 North. This journey can take between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This longer travel time underscores the importance of planning and considering potential delays.

Public transportation options in Marston are limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the town. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for those who do not drive or have access to a personal vehicle. This severely impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the costs of private transportation.

The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas like Marston. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for those with disabilities. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability cannot be guaranteed. The absence of a reliable public transit system with ADA-compliant features further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with mobility impairments.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including FirstHealth’s transportation services and various private companies. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which can add to the financial burden of healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score for Marston, NC (28363) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital provides a relatively accessible option for primary care, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges. The longer travel times to Fayetteville and Raleigh, for specialized care, further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Marston, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. The availability of personal transportation or access to reliable ride-sharing services is essential for managing breast cancer care. The costs associated with transportation should be factored into the overall financial planning.

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. As Marston and the surrounding areas develop, improvements in public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services could significantly improve the score.

The availability of support networks is also a key factor. Family, friends, and community organizations can play a vital role in providing transportation assistance and emotional support. Building a strong support system is crucial for navigating the challenges of breast cancer treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care and consultations. The availability of reliable internet access is essential for utilizing telehealth services.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Marston, NC (28363) highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges. For those moving to Marston, careful consideration of transportation options and the development of a strong support network are essential for ensuring access to timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. The score emphasizes the need for continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare access for all residents of Marston.