28398, Warsaw, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.91 percent of residents in 28398 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.37 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like breast cancer, transcends the simple act of getting from point A to point B. It’s a complex tapestry woven with threads of time, resources, and the emotional weight of potential illness. This analysis explores the landscape of healthcare access for individuals residing in Warsaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28398), focusing specifically on transportation options for breast cancer care, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the ease of access. This score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the practical realities faced by those seeking vital medical attention.

Warsaw, a small town nestled in Duplin County, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. While the charm of a close-knit community is undeniable, the relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in larger cities, making reliable and efficient transportation a crucial factor in the quality of life for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This write-up aims to equip potential residents, particularly those moving to Warsaw, with the knowledge needed to navigate this critical aspect of their healthcare journey.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Healing**

The most common mode of transportation in this rural area is the personal vehicle. Drive times to key healthcare facilities, therefore, become paramount. Understanding the primary routes and potential bottlenecks is essential.

For residents of 28398, the closest significant healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer care is **New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, NC.** The journey typically involves navigating several key highways and roads. The primary route is via **US-117 South** to **I-40 East**. The total distance is approximately 60 miles, and the drive time, under ideal conditions, is about one hour and fifteen minutes. However, traffic, especially during peak hours and on weekends, can significantly extend this time.

Another option involves taking **NC-24 East** to **US-17 South**, leading to Wilmington. This route is slightly longer, around 70 miles, but offers a different perspective and potentially less congestion. The travel time is comparable, averaging around one hour and twenty minutes.

Another option is to access **Vidant Duplin Hospital** in Kenansville, NC. It is a critical access hospital and offers some cancer services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The drive is much shorter, taking approximately 15 minutes on **NC-24 East**.

The Breast Cancer Score is impacted by drive times. Longer drive times increase stress, fatigue, and the financial burden of transportation costs. The potential for delays due to traffic adds an element of uncertainty, which can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Warsaw are limited, a common challenge in rural areas. Duplin County does not currently have a public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of reliable public transit necessitates reliance on other modes of transportation, which can be expensive and less accessible. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit options in the area further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with mobility limitations. This scarcity of public transportation options underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments. This cost factor negatively affects the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

**CareRide** and **FirstLight Home Care** are two companies that offer NEMT in the area. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance and the level of assistance required. While medical transport provides a crucial service, it can be expensive, and the availability of these services may be limited, which impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Warsaw, NC (28398) is a composite measure reflecting the challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance and travel time to comprehensive cancer care centers.
* **Public Transit:** The availability and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.

Based on the above analysis, the Breast Cancer Score for Warsaw, NC (28398) is moderately impacted. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost and availability challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to this score.

**Moving to Warsaw: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Warsaw, NC (28398), particularly those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is crucial. The absence of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning.

It is highly recommended that prospective residents research the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area. Exploring the potential for carpooling with neighbors or friends is another option. The proximity of Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville provides a significant advantage for some cancer services.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Warsaw is a personal one. However, a clear understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential for making an informed choice. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating this critical aspect of community living.