28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.95 percent of residents in 28392 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 12.93 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tar Heel, NC (ZIP Code 28392)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It involves not just the emotional and physical toll of the disease, but also the practicalities of accessing treatment. In the rural community of Tar Heel, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28392), these practicalities are amplified, demanding a nuanced understanding of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking breast cancer care in this specific area, with the goal of providing valuable insights for residents and those considering **moving to Tar Heel**.

Tar Heel, a small town nestled in Bladen County, presents unique challenges. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The Breast Cancer Score considers several factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options. Each element is crucial in determining the overall ease with which residents can access potentially life-saving care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The most common mode of transportation in Tar Heel is personal vehicle. The primary roadways impacting travel times are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 74, and NC Highway 87. These arteries are the lifelines connecting Tar Heel to regional healthcare hubs.

The drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, approximately 35 miles away, is a crucial benchmark. This drive, primarily via US-74 East and I-95 South, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. While manageable, this time commitment represents a significant portion of the day, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel further. The Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, a highly regarded center, is approximately 120 miles away, a drive of roughly two and a half hours, primarily via I-95 North and I-40 West. The University of North Carolina (UNC) Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill, another major facility, is also about 120 miles away, reachable via I-95 North and I-40 West. These longer journeys underscore the importance of reliable transportation and careful planning.

The drive times are not just about distance; they also factor in the physical toll on patients. Fatigue, nausea, and other side effects of treatment can make driving a significant burden.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Bladen County are extremely limited. There is no established bus system operating within Tar Heel or providing direct routes to major healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, elderly individuals, and those with mobility limitations.

While the Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (CFTA) in Fayetteville offers some routes, they do not directly serve Tar Heel. Even if a resident could reach Fayetteville, the CFTA’s routes may not be convenient for accessing the medical center, and the schedules may not align with appointment times.

The absence of accessible public transportation is a major barrier to **healthcare access** in Tar Heel. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing transit options further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fayetteville area, but their reliability and affordability in Tar Heel are questionable. The availability of drivers can be inconsistent, and the cost of a ride to Fayetteville or further could be prohibitive for some.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often partnering with insurance providers. These services can transport patients to and from appointments, but availability and coverage vary depending on insurance plans and the specific needs of the patient.

The Breast Cancer Score must consider the limitations of ride-sharing and the potential benefits of medical transportation. The reliance on these services adds another layer of complexity to the process of accessing care.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Tar Heel (ZIP Code 28392) is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing breast cancer care. The score incorporates the following:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While the drive to Fayetteville is manageable, longer trips to specialized centers are time-consuming.
* **Public Transit:** Poor. The lack of public transportation is a significant barrier.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Limited. Availability and cost are potential issues.
* **Medical Transport:** Variable. Availability and insurance coverage are key factors.

Overall, the Breast Cancer Score for Tar Heel is lower than that of urban areas with robust public transit and readily available ride-sharing. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges with medical transportation services create a less-than-ideal situation for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For residents of Tar Heel, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a support network of family, friends, or community members who can provide transportation is crucial. Exploring medical transportation options early in the treatment process is also recommended.

For those considering **moving to Tar Heel**, it is vital to factor in the **transportation** limitations and the impact on **healthcare access**. Researching insurance coverage for medical transportation and assessing the availability of support networks should be part of the decision-making process.

The Breast Cancer Score for Tar Heel underscores the importance of community initiatives to improve **healthcare access**. Advocating for expanded public transit options, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides, and promoting awareness of medical transportation resources can all contribute to improving the quality of life for residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The journey to healthcare in Tar Heel is a testament to the resilience of individuals and the need for a community-wide commitment to support.