28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.78 percent of residents in 28428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.89 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carolina Beach (ZIP Code 28428)**

Considering a move to the sun-kissed shores of Carolina Beach? Beyond the allure of sand and surf, prospective residents must assess essential services, including healthcare access. This assessment focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP code 28428, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options to medical facilities. This score helps evaluate the ease of reaching diagnostic and treatment centers, a crucial factor for anyone, especially those with pre-existing health concerns or a family history of breast cancer. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of transportation challenges and opportunities, contributing to informed decision-making.

Carolina Beach, nestled on a barrier island, presents unique transportation considerations. Limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles shape healthcare access. This analysis examines the transportation landscape, highlighting drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, offering a nuanced perspective on navigating healthcare in this coastal community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary route connecting Carolina Beach to Wilmington, the major healthcare hub, is **US-421 North**. This highway, also known as Carolina Beach Road, is the lifeline for residents seeking medical services. Travel times vary depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons. Expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the largest hospital in the area, located in Wilmington.

Alternative routes include **NC-132 North (College Road)**, offering a slightly longer but sometimes less congested option. This route provides access to various medical offices and clinics along the way. However, it's important to note that traffic on College Road can be heavy, especially near the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) campus.

For those needing specialized cancer care, the NHRMC Zimmer Cancer Institute is the primary destination. Drive times to this facility from Carolina Beach, via US-421, typically range from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic. This time frame is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Delays can impact patient outcomes, emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Carolina Beach are limited. The Wave Transit system provides bus service, but routes and frequency are restricted, especially compared to larger metropolitan areas. Route 201 is the primary bus route serving Carolina Beach, offering connections to Wilmington.

The bus service is not designed for frequent trips to Wilmington. Travel times via public transit are significantly longer than driving, often exceeding an hour to reach the healthcare facilities. ADA accessibility features are available on Wave Transit buses, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route network and infrequent schedules make public transit a less viable option for many seeking healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Carolina Beach area. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, costs can be a factor, and wait times may be longer than in more populated areas.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for patients needing transportation to and from medical appointments. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions. Several medical transport providers operate in the Wilmington area, including First Flight Medical Transport and MedTrans of Wilmington. These services often require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Carolina Beach (ZIP code 28428) reflects the transportation challenges and opportunities related to breast cancer care. It considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. The score is not a single number but a composite assessment, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access.

The score considers that drive times to major healthcare facilities, like NHRMC and the Zimmer Cancer Institute, are reasonable under normal conditions. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and tourist season, can significantly impact travel times. Public transit is a limited option, posing a challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle or ride-sharing services.

Ride-sharing services provide a viable alternative, but availability and cost can be barriers. Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients with mobility limitations or other health conditions. The score emphasizes the importance of planning and considering various transportation options when accessing healthcare in Carolina Beach.

**Impact on Moving Decisions: Weighing the Factors**

For individuals considering moving to Carolina Beach, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a critical element in their decision-making process. Those with a history of breast cancer, a family history, or who require regular medical care should carefully evaluate the transportation options.

The score highlights the need for reliable transportation, whether it's a personal vehicle, ride-sharing, or medical transport. It underscores the importance of proximity to healthcare facilities and the potential impact of traffic congestion on access. The "Breast Cancer Score" empowers prospective residents to make informed decisions, ensuring they can access the necessary healthcare services in their new community.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Carolina Beach offers the allure of coastal living, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities related to breast cancer care. By considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This assessment underscores the importance of planning, preparation, and proactive measures to ensure seamless access to healthcare in this beautiful coastal community.