28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.13 percent of residents in 28431 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 7.90 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431)

The whisper of a breast cancer diagnosis carries a chilling weight, a call to immediate action. For residents of Chadbourn, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28431), that action necessitates a swift and informed response. This document provides a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," a practical assessment of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options to navigate the critical journey from diagnosis to treatment. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Chadbourn, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The core of this score hinges on the reality of transportation. Chadbourn, a town steeped in Southern charm, is not a metropolis. Its healthcare landscape, while present, requires travel. The Breast Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport options to key medical facilities. This information helps gauge the ease and efficiency with which a patient can access vital breast cancer services.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary method of transportation for most Chadbourn residents will be personal vehicles. The time spent behind the wheel is paramount. The closest comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, is found at the Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia, NC, approximately 35 miles away. The drive primarily utilizes US-74/76 East, a major highway that becomes a four-lane divided highway as you approach Wilmington. Traffic conditions significantly impact travel time.

Under ideal conditions, the drive to Bolivia takes roughly 45 to 60 minutes. However, rush hour, accidents, or inclement weather can easily extend this to over an hour. The route is generally well-maintained, but the potential for delays must be factored into the Breast Cancer Score. The journey requires careful planning, particularly for appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments that demand precise scheduling.

Other options include the Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville, NC, a shorter drive of approximately 15 miles, typically taking 20-30 minutes via NC-131. While this facility may offer some cancer services, it may not have the same breadth of specialists and advanced treatment options as the Brunswick Medical Center. The decision of where to seek care will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the recommendations of their primary care physician.

For those seeking care in Wilmington, NC, which offers a wider range of specialized services, the drive is approximately 60-75 miles, taking 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route primarily uses US-74/76 East, becoming a busy corridor through the coastal region. This longer distance significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, especially considering the potential for fatigue and the need for frequent follow-up appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Chadbourn are extremely limited. Columbus County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. There are no fixed-route buses or dedicated public transit services that directly connect Chadbourn to the major medical centers in Bolivia or Wilmington. This severely impacts the Breast Cancer Score for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. Without a public transit system, individuals with mobility limitations face significant challenges. The lack of readily available public transportation further underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Chadbourn, but their reliability and availability can vary. Demand, particularly during peak hours or for early morning appointments, may exceed the supply of drivers. The cost of ride-sharing for long-distance trips to Bolivia or Wilmington can also be substantial, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and Freedom Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. However, they offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive or lack other transportation options.

The availability of these services in Chadbourn and the surrounding areas is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The reliability of these services, their ability to accommodate specific needs, and their cost-effectiveness are all important considerations for patients.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431), reflects the combined impact of these factors. The score acknowledges the necessity of personal transportation, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport. The score is not a single number but a nuanced assessment.

For individuals with access to a reliable vehicle, the score is moderately favorable. The drive times, while manageable, necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays. For those without access to a personal vehicle, the score is significantly lower. The lack of public transit and the reliance on potentially unreliable or expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services pose substantial challenges.

The Breast Cancer Score is dynamic. It should be re-evaluated based on individual circumstances, including mobility limitations, financial resources, and the specific treatment plan. It is also essential to consider the availability of support services, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can assist with transportation.

**Moving to Chadbourn: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Chadbourn, NC, the Breast Cancer Score is a crucial element in the decision-making process. Understanding the limitations of healthcare access, particularly the transportation challenges, is essential. Potential residents should thoroughly research their healthcare needs, identify preferred medical providers, and assess their transportation options.

The Breast Cancer Score is not meant to discourage anyone from moving to Chadbourn. Instead, it provides a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions. By understanding the transportation challenges, residents can proactively plan for their healthcare needs, ensuring timely access to vital services and supporting their well-being.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431), highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the town offers a tranquil environment, the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities necessitates careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport. This score serves as a valuable tool for residents and prospective residents, facilitating informed decisions and promoting proactive healthcare management in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis.