28399, White Oak, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28399, White Oak, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.42 percent of residents in 28399 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 18.30 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28399**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a multifaceted one. It extends beyond the walls of the clinic, encompassing the crucial element of *transportation*. This write-up analyzes the healthcare access landscape in ZIP Code 28399, a region encompassing White Oak, North Carolina, considering the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer care. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score aims to inform residents and potential movers about the realities of accessing potentially life-saving treatment.

The core of our analysis revolves around the practicalities of reaching healthcare facilities. For individuals in White Oak, the most direct routes to specialized breast cancer care often lead to Fayetteville, the largest city in the area, or to nearby towns with medical facilities. The drive times, a critical component of our score, fluctuate depending on traffic, time of day, and the specific destination.

**Driving the Distance:**

The primary arteries for vehicular *transportation* in and out of White Oak are US Highway 401 and NC Highway 87. Traveling to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a major healthcare hub, typically involves a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is a relatively manageable commute, offering a degree of accessibility for those with personal vehicles.

However, for individuals requiring specialized breast cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, the drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers may be longer. The drive to Duke Cancer Institute in Durham, North Carolina, a highly regarded facility, can take upwards of two hours via I-95 and US-1, a significant time commitment, especially when factoring in appointments, treatment schedules, and potential post-treatment fatigue.

Smaller medical facilities within a 30-minute radius, such as those in Raeford, may offer basic screening and preliminary care, but often lack the specialized expertise and equipment necessary for comprehensive breast cancer treatment. The necessity of traveling to larger centers underscores the importance of reliable *transportation* options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public *transportation* options in ZIP Code 28399 are limited. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) operates a bus network within Fayetteville, but service to White Oak is sparse. The routes that do extend into the area, if any, are infrequent, and their schedules are often not conducive to medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while mandated by law, may still present challenges. Individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for those undergoing breast cancer treatment, may face difficulties navigating the bus system. The lack of direct routes to medical facilities and the potential for lengthy travel times on public transit significantly impact the "Breast Cancer Score" for those reliant on this mode of *transportation*.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible *transportation* alternative. However, their availability in White Oak and the surrounding areas can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments and treatments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide a more reliable option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical *transportation* offer door-to-door service, often with trained personnel to assist patients. These services, however, can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of medical transport in the area is a crucial factor in assessing *healthcare access*.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to White Oak:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28399 reflects the complexities of *healthcare access* in the area. While the proximity to Fayetteville offers some advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles for comprehensive care, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services present challenges.

For individuals considering *moving to White Oak*, a thorough evaluation of their *transportation* needs is essential. Those with reliable access to a personal vehicle will likely find the area more accessible. However, individuals reliant on public transit or those with mobility limitations should carefully assess the availability and affordability of alternative *transportation* options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of accessing healthcare. It highlights the importance of considering not just the availability of medical facilities, but also the practicalities of getting there. Factors such as the distance to specialized care, the reliability of *transportation* options, and the financial implications of accessing healthcare all contribute to the overall score.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improved Access**

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28399 underscores the need for improved *healthcare access*. While the area offers some advantages in terms of proximity to Fayetteville, the limitations in public *transportation* and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services create barriers for those seeking breast cancer care.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include expanding public transit routes, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical *transportation*. Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources and supporting initiatives that enhance *healthcare access* are crucial steps toward improving the "Breast Cancer Score" and ensuring that all residents of White Oak have equal opportunities to receive the care they need.