28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.49 percent of residents in 28425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.61 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425)

The specter of breast cancer hangs heavy, a reality demanding proactive vigilance. Understanding healthcare access, particularly the ease of **transportation** to vital services, is paramount for residents of Burgaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28425). This assessment, a “Breast Cancer Score,” evaluates the practical challenges a resident faces in obtaining timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatments, considering the unique geographical context. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Burgaw**, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Burgaw, a charming town nestled in Pender County, presents a specific set of **transportation** considerations. While the pace of life may be slower, the need for swift and reliable access to medical care remains a constant. This analysis examines the landscape of **healthcare access** for breast cancer care, focusing on the practicalities of getting there.

The primary challenge for Burgaw residents is the distance to specialized breast cancer centers. The nearest comprehensive facilities are located in Wilmington, roughly 30 miles away. This distance translates into drive times that can vary significantly based on traffic and road conditions. The most direct route involves traveling on US-117 South, a major thoroughfare connecting Burgaw to Wilmington. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day and traffic congestion, particularly around the Wilmington city limits.

An alternative route involves taking NC-53 East to US-17 South. This route, while slightly longer in mileage, can sometimes offer a less congested drive, especially during peak commuting hours. However, it also requires navigating more rural roads, which can be subject to unpredictable conditions. The drive time on this route is generally in the range of 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes.

The condition of the roads themselves is a factor. US-117 and NC-53 are generally well-maintained, but the rural roads connecting to US-17 can be susceptible to potholes and other hazards, especially after inclement weather. This necessitates careful driving and potentially slower speeds, extending travel times.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Burgaw and the surrounding areas. The Wilmington Area Regional Transit Authority (WAVE Transit) does not currently offer direct routes to Burgaw. Therefore, relying on public transit for breast cancer care is not a viable option. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This is a critical consideration for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Burgaw, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. While they offer a potential solution, the availability of drivers can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening, when appointments are frequently scheduled. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a more structured option. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including assistance getting in and out of the vehicle. However, the availability of NEMT services in Burgaw may be limited, and the cost can be substantial. Researching and securing these services in advance is crucial. Companies like First Transit, or smaller local providers, should be investigated.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) considerations are crucial. For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles, ramps, and other accommodations is essential. When utilizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services, it is imperative to confirm that the vehicle is ADA-compliant and that the driver is trained to assist passengers with disabilities.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Burgaw is further complicated by the availability of specialized breast cancer care. While Wilmington offers comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, the journey itself presents a significant challenge. The need for multiple appointments, including screenings, biopsies, surgeries, and follow-up care, can place a considerable burden on individuals and their families.

The Breast Cancer Score for Burgaw (28425) reflects these realities. The score is negatively impacted by the lack of public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical **transportation**. The drive times, while manageable, add to the stress and burden of managing a breast cancer diagnosis.

For individuals **moving to Burgaw**, this assessment underscores the importance of carefully evaluating their **transportation** options and establishing a plan for accessing breast cancer care. This plan should include identifying reliable **transportation** resources, understanding the costs involved, and considering the potential impact on their quality of life.

The Breast Cancer Score is not merely a number; it is a call to action. It highlights the need for improved **healthcare access** in rural communities. It underscores the importance of advocating for expanded public **transportation** options, promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and supporting the growth of medical **transportation** providers. By understanding the challenges and proactively addressing them, residents of Burgaw can better navigate the complexities of breast cancer care and improve their chances of a positive outcome.