28386, Shannon, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28386, Shannon, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.37 percent of residents in 28386 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 12.37 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28386

Understanding your breast cancer score is crucial for proactive healthcare. This score, a personalized assessment of your risk factors, informs preventative measures and treatment strategies. However, the journey to optimal care extends beyond the doctor's office. Access to timely and reliable transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for residents in ZIP Code 28386, a region where the commute to specialized medical facilities can be a significant barrier. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all critical factors in determining the ease with which residents can access vital breast cancer care.

For residents of 28386, the closest comprehensive breast cancer center is likely located in the city of Lumberton, home to the renowned Southeastern Health System, including the flagship facility, Southeastern Regional Medical Center. This journey, however, isn't always straightforward. Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many. The most direct route typically involves utilizing **US Highway 74** east, a major artery connecting the area to Lumberton.

The drive itself, depending on traffic conditions, can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend travel times. Alternatively, residents might opt for **NC Highway 41** south, which merges with **US Highway 74** closer to Lumberton. This route, while offering an alternative, often involves navigating smaller roads and may not necessarily reduce overall travel time.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Lumberton, accessing more specialized care, such as advanced imaging or consultations with sub-specialists, might necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Fayetteville or even Raleigh. These journeys involve considerably longer drive times. Reaching Fayetteville typically requires traveling on **I-95** north, a major interstate highway. The drive can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic.

For those needing to travel to Raleigh, the journey becomes even more substantial, often exceeding two hours, primarily utilizing **I-95** north and then connecting to **US Highway 64** or **US Highway 1**. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments, or experiencing fatigue.

Public transportation options in 28386 are limited. The local transit authority, if one exists, may offer limited bus routes. Information on these routes and their schedules is crucial for residents. The availability of ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and lifts, is also critical for individuals with mobility limitations. These details are essential for evaluating the accessibility of public transit options.

Unfortunately, the public transportation infrastructure in many rural areas, including this part of North Carolina, often struggles to meet the demands of healthcare access. The frequency of bus routes, the geographical coverage, and the overall convenience may not adequately serve the needs of those requiring regular medical appointments. This lack of robust public transit can disproportionately affect individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle, or are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in 28386 can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing availability often depends on driver density, which tends to be lower in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance with transportation. However, the cost of these services can vary, and availability may require advance booking.

For residents of 28386, the decision to move to Shannon, or the surrounding areas, should involve a thorough assessment of transportation options. This assessment should consider the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation.

Individuals considering moving to the area should proactively investigate the availability of these services and factor them into their healthcare planning. Understanding the limitations and challenges of transportation is crucial for ensuring timely access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The breast cancer score is not just a medical assessment; it's a holistic understanding of your health, including the practical considerations of accessing care. The information presented here is intended to provide a starting point for residents of 28386, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. The ease of accessing healthcare is directly related to the quality of care received.

This information is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.