28432, Clarendon, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.64 percent of residents in 28432 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 11.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clarendon, NC (ZIP Code 28432)

Moving to Clarendon, North Carolina, offers a slower pace of life, rooted in community and natural beauty. However, when considering a move, particularly for those prioritizing healthcare access, it's crucial to understand the landscape of medical transportation, especially concerning specialized care like breast cancer treatment. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 28432, focusing on the complexities of transportation to vital healthcare services.

The core of this assessment revolves around the practical realities of getting to and from appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. Breast cancer treatment often demands frequent visits, making reliable and efficient transportation a critical factor in patient well-being and treatment adherence. We'll examine the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to assess the ease and challenges of accessing the necessary healthcare in the region.

For residents of Clarendon, the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are primarily located in Wilmington, approximately 40 to 50 miles away. This distance translates into a significant travel commitment, impacting the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area. The primary route involves using US-74 East, a major highway connecting Clarendon to Wilmington. The drive typically takes between one and one and a half hours, depending on traffic conditions.

The journey often includes merging onto US-17 South, the primary artery leading into Wilmington. This section, particularly around the city's outskirts, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Delays can significantly impact appointment schedules, adding stress to an already challenging situation.

Beyond the drive time, the condition of the roads also plays a role. While US-74 and US-17 are generally well-maintained, inclement weather, like hurricanes common in the region, can cause closures or hazardous driving conditions. These factors further complicate transportation and can potentially disrupt treatment plans.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 28432 are limited. The local transit system primarily serves Columbus County, with limited routes and schedules. There is no direct public transit route from Clarendon to Wilmington. Relying on public transportation for breast cancer care in this area is therefore not a viable option.

The absence of public transit underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Wilmington area, but their availability in Clarendon is less consistent. Booking a ride from Clarendon to Wilmington could be challenging, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening. This unreliability significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score".

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another avenue. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) operate in the region, providing door-to-door service. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources. The availability of these services in Clarendon and their associated cost must be considered when assessing healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support networks. Family, friends, and community organizations can provide crucial transportation assistance. However, relying solely on informal support systems can be unreliable, especially for patients with extensive treatment schedules.

Furthermore, the availability of parking at the healthcare facilities in Wilmington impacts the overall experience. Parking fees and the potential difficulty in finding a parking spot can add to the stress of attending appointments. This factor, while seemingly minor, contributes to the overall assessment of healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Clarendon, NC (28432) reflects the challenges in healthcare access related to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the distance to treatment centers, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The cost and availability of medical transportation services are also significant considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Clarendon, or for current residents, proactive planning is essential. This includes researching transportation options, exploring the availability of financial assistance for medical transportation, and building a strong support network.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the practical realities faced by individuals navigating breast cancer treatment in a rural setting. Understanding these challenges empowers residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved transportation solutions in their community.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of Clarendon have equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations. This requires a multifaceted approach, including community initiatives, advocacy for improved public transportation, and exploring innovative solutions to bridge the gap in healthcare access. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this important conversation.