28420, Ash, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.01 percent of residents in 28420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 15.01 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28420

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. Beyond the medical complexities, navigating the logistical hurdles of transportation and access can significantly impact a patient's experience. This write-up examines the transportation landscape in ZIP code 28420, a region encompassing portions of Ash, North Carolina, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment of healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking breast cancer care.

The very act of moving to Ash, or any new community, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. For individuals facing a potential breast cancer diagnosis, this consideration becomes paramount. The ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and access supportive care is crucial for successful outcomes. Understanding the transportation options available is a critical first step in assessing the feasibility of receiving care in this area.

The Breast Cancer Score for 28420 will be based on a subjective scale. Factors include the availability and reliability of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care, and the overall ease of access for patients with varying mobility needs. The higher the score, the better the access to healthcare.

**Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

The primary challenge for residents of 28420 is the relatively rural nature of the area. While the region offers a peaceful environment, the proximity to specialized healthcare facilities can be a concern. The most direct route to Wilmington, the nearest city with comprehensive breast cancer care, involves navigating US-17 South. The drive, depending on the specific location within 28420, can range from 30 to 45 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

US-17 South is a major thoroughfare, generally well-maintained, but prone to congestion during peak hours, especially near the Wilmington city limits. This can significantly impact drive times, potentially adding considerable stress for patients already facing the emotional and physical demands of breast cancer treatment. Alternate routes, such as using NC-130 East, can offer some relief, but they often add mileage and travel time.

For those residing in the more remote areas of 28420, accessing US-17 South may require navigating smaller county roads, further increasing travel time. The condition of these roads can vary, potentially posing challenges for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that affects their physical capabilities. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation and the financial burden of fuel costs.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 28420 are extremely limited. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) does provide some services, but they are primarily focused on serving the needs of the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents. Service is demand-response, meaning trips must be scheduled in advance, and the routes and schedules are not designed to efficiently serve the needs of individuals seeking regular medical appointments.

The BCTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling can make it difficult for patients to access timely and consistent transportation for their breast cancer care. The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for this region.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Variable Availability**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 28420 area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This can be a significant challenge for patients who need to schedule appointments at specific times or require transportation for early morning or late evening treatments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden, especially for patients undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a more tailored approach for patients with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with their mobility needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which can be a barrier for some patients. The availability of medical transport services in 28420 is variable, further impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the Breast Cancer Score for 28420 is moderate, leaning towards the lower end. While the area offers a degree of access to healthcare through personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport create significant challenges for patients.

The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on patients and their families, requiring them to manage transportation logistics, fuel costs, and the potential stress of driving. The lack of reliable public transit options exacerbates these challenges, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The limited availability and potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport further compound the difficulties.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Several steps could be taken to improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients in 28420. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanded routes and more frequent service, would be a significant step forward. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted or subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring that these services are accessible and affordable is essential. Community outreach programs to educate residents about available resources and to connect patients with transportation assistance are also crucial.

Finally, the development of telemedicine options, allowing patients to receive some consultations and follow-up care remotely, could help to mitigate the transportation challenges. By implementing these strategies, the community can improve the Breast Cancer Score and enhance healthcare access for all residents of 28420, especially those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. The decision to move to Ash should include thorough research into healthcare options, ensuring that the transportation infrastructure supports the needs of individuals seeking care.