28383, Rowland, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28383, Rowland, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.55 percent of residents in 28383 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 15.24 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rowland, NC (ZIP Code 28383)**

The sun rises over the quiet fields of Rowland, North Carolina, painting the sky with hues of peach and gold. For those considering a move to this rural community, or already residing within the 28383 ZIP code, understanding access to healthcare, particularly for a critical condition like breast cancer, is paramount. This analysis explores the transportation landscape, a vital component of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, illuminating the realities of accessing potentially life-saving treatments and care.

Rowland, nestled in Robeson County, offers a slower pace of life, a strong sense of community, and the allure of affordable living. However, the very factors that draw people here – rurality and distance – also present challenges when it comes to healthcare. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers and specialized breast cancer care facilities are not within easy walking distance. This necessitates a reliance on various modes of transportation, making the journey to healthcare a significant consideration.

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Rowland are the major highways. Interstate 95, the East Coast's main north-south thoroughfare, is the most significant. US Route 301, a parallel route, provides an alternative, often less congested, path. Within Rowland, local roads like Main Street and South Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue serve as vital connectors. The drive times to facilities specializing in breast cancer care are significantly impacted by traffic conditions and the location of the chosen facility.

The closest significant healthcare facility is Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, approximately 15 to 20 minutes away, depending on traffic. While this hospital offers some cancer services, it might not have the full range of specialized breast cancer treatments. For more comprehensive care, patients typically need to travel to larger cities.

Drive times to these facilities vary considerably. Driving to Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, a nationally recognized cancer center, takes roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes, primarily via I-95 North and I-40 West. The drive to UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill also takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, utilizing I-95 North and I-40 West. These longer drives highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for fatigue during treatment.

Public transportation options in Rowland are limited. Robeson County operates a public transit system, but it is primarily designed for local travel and is not specifically tailored for medical appointments. The system may offer limited routes to Lumberton, but it is not likely to have direct routes to the larger cancer centers. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times are significant considerations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Rowland, though their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver availability and the time of day. Booking rides in advance is crucial, especially for appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer specialized transportation services, often with trained drivers and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and can be costly, but they provide a reliable option for those unable to drive or use public transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Rowland, or already residing there, the "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the following factors. The distance to specialized cancer centers, the reliability of transportation options, and the cost of accessing care all contribute to the overall score. The score should also take into account the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs offered by cancer centers.

The score would be lower for those relying on public transit, due to the limitations in routes and schedules. It would be higher for individuals with access to a personal vehicle or reliable ride-sharing options. The score would also improve for those with financial resources to afford medical transportation services.

The challenges of accessing healthcare in rural areas are well documented. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Rowland, NC (28383) reflects these realities. While the community offers a peaceful environment and affordable living, the distance to specialized medical care necessitates careful planning and consideration. The availability of transportation is a key determinant of healthcare access.

For individuals with a breast cancer diagnosis or at high risk, the availability of reliable transportation is a crucial factor. The ability to access timely and comprehensive care can significantly impact treatment outcomes. The need for frequent appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up visits, underscores the importance of a robust transportation infrastructure.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical rating; it's a reflection of the lived experience of patients and their families. It highlights the need for community resources, such as volunteer driver programs, transportation assistance grants, and expanded public transit options. It underscores the importance of advocating for improved healthcare access in rural communities.

Moving to Rowland offers a unique lifestyle, but it's essential to understand the complexities of healthcare access. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a guide, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It's a call to action, urging communities to prioritize healthcare access and ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to receive the care they need.

The beauty of the North Carolina landscape, the warmth of the Rowland community, and the promise of a simpler life must be balanced with the realities of healthcare access. The journey to healthcare should not be a burden; it should be a path paved with support, compassion, and reliable transportation.