28391, Stedman, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 28391 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 13.05 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stedman, NC (ZIP Code 28391)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is more than a medical appointment. It’s a complex equation involving access, affordability, and, crucially, transportation. This write-up provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment for residents of Stedman, North Carolina (ZIP code 28391), focusing on the practicalities of accessing vital services. We'll examine the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on healthcare access. This is critical information for anyone considering moving to Stedman, seeking care, or supporting a loved one through treatment.

Stedman, a small town nestled in Cumberland County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the community offers a sense of rural tranquility, its location necessitates careful consideration of transportation options to reach specialized breast cancer care. This analysis will delve into the realities of navigating the healthcare system from this particular ZIP code. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities, providing a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making.

**The Drive: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

For many in Stedman, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive to comprehensive breast cancer care often involves navigating the network of roads and highways surrounding the town. The most direct route to major medical centers typically involves utilizing Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery.

From Stedman, taking I-95 South towards Fayetteville is a common starting point. The drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a prominent healthcare provider, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This route typically utilizes exit ramps and local roads to reach the hospital campus. Another option is to travel north on I-95 to access healthcare facilities in the Raleigh area.

Alternatively, residents may utilize US Highway 401, a less congested but slower route, to reach Fayetteville. This road provides a more scenic drive but may add travel time. The condition of the roads, traffic flow, and time of day significantly impact travel times. It's essential to factor in potential delays, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

The availability of parking at these medical facilities is another crucial consideration. Parking fees, the distance from parking areas to treatment centers, and the physical limitations of patients undergoing treatment can create additional burdens. Planning ahead, including pre-arranging transportation, is essential.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Stedman and the surrounding area are limited. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides some bus service within Fayetteville, but it does not extend directly into Stedman. This significantly restricts the accessibility of public transit for residents of 28391.

While FAST offers routes that may get you *close* to the area, the lack of direct service necessitates a combination of transportation methods. This could involve a ride-share to a FAST bus stop, adding to the overall travel time and cost. The FAST system offers some routes that may get you closer to healthcare facilities, but the lack of direct service from Stedman presents a significant barrier.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. FAST is committed to providing accessible services, but the frequency and coverage of these accessible routes are factors to be considered. Patients with disabilities should confirm the availability of accessible transportation and plan their trips accordingly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fayetteville area. However, their availability in Stedman itself may be less consistent. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies.

The availability and reliability of these services are crucial for patients who cannot drive or lack access to personal transportation. Researching and pre-arranging transportation options are essential for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.

**The 'Breast Cancer Score' and Healthcare Access**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Stedman, NC, in terms of transportation access, is moderate. While the proximity to Fayetteville offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but their cost and availability must be considered.

Patients in Stedman should proactively plan their transportation needs. This includes researching healthcare providers, assessing travel times, and exploring all available transportation options. Building a support network of family, friends, and community resources can also be invaluable.

**Moving to Stedman: A Consideration for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Stedman, the availability of healthcare access should be a significant factor. While the town offers a welcoming community, the practicalities of transportation must be weighed against the need for timely and convenient access to medical care.

Prospective residents should research the healthcare facilities in the area, including their specialties, services, and insurance acceptance. They should also assess their transportation needs and determine whether they can rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services.

**Conclusion: Planning for the Journey**

Navigating the healthcare system, particularly for breast cancer treatment, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Residents of Stedman (28391) face unique challenges due to the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles. By understanding the available options, proactively planning transportation, and building a strong support network, patients can navigate the journey to recovery with greater ease and peace of mind. The 'Breast Cancer Score' highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents of Stedman.