28433, Clarkton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28433, Clarkton, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.47 percent of residents in 28433 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 9.22 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clarkton, NC (ZIP Code 28433)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis looms, a stark reality for many. But the journey doesn't begin and end with the diagnosis itself. It encompasses the critical aspect of healthcare access, the ability to reach the necessary medical professionals and treatment facilities. For residents of Clarkton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28433), this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' for Clarkton, considering the complexities of getting to and from vital healthcare appointments.

Moving to a new area, especially with a health concern, demands careful consideration of transportation. Clarkton, a small town nestled in Bladen County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The 'Breast Cancer Score' evaluates these factors, offering a realistic picture for residents and those considering relocation. This is not just about proximity; it's about the feasibility of getting there, and the potential burdens placed on a patient facing a serious illness.

The primary determinant of the 'Breast Cancer Score' is the drive-time to the nearest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care. These facilities typically include mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy), and radiation therapy. The closest comprehensive care center is located in Wilmington, approximately 40 miles away.

Driving to Wilmington from Clarkton necessitates navigating several highways and roads. The most direct route involves taking NC-211 East, which merges onto US-74 East. This stretch, approximately 30 miles, is generally well-maintained, but can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, potentially adding considerable time to the commute. The final leg involves exiting US-74 East onto the I-140 East, leading directly into Wilmington.

The drive itself, under optimal conditions, takes approximately 50 to 60 minutes. However, unforeseen circumstances like traffic congestion, particularly around Wilmington, or inclement weather, can easily extend this time. This travel time, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration, especially for patients undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

Public transportation options in Clarkton are limited. Bladen County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly connect Clarkton to Wilmington. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The lack of public transportation significantly impacts the 'Breast Cancer Score', particularly for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or low-income.

While dedicated public transit options are absent, Bladen County offers a demand-response service. This service requires advance booking and is designed to provide transportation for medical appointments, among other needs. However, this service may have limited availability and requires careful coordination, potentially adding significant stress to an already challenging situation. It is crucial to inquire about ADA accessibility features when booking this service.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Wilmington, but their presence in Clarkton is less reliable. Availability fluctuates, and wait times can be unpredictable. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not advisable, particularly given the potential for cancellations or surge pricing. The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing further diminishes the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Clarkton residents.

Medical transportation services, specializing in non-emergency medical transport, offer another option. These services, often provided by companies like First Medical Transportation or MedTrans, provide door-to-door service, often including assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than other transportation methods. This financial burden can be a significant barrier for many patients, further impacting their access to care.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' also considers the availability of support services within Clarkton and the surrounding areas. Local support groups, counseling services, and community resources can play a vital role in a patient's overall well-being. The presence of these services, and their accessibility, can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. Unfortunately, Clarkton itself has limited resources, requiring residents to travel to larger towns or cities for these essential support systems.

When evaluating healthcare access, the 'Breast Cancer Score' must also consider the patient's individual circumstances. Factors such as physical limitations, financial constraints, and social support networks all play a role in determining the feasibility of accessing care. A patient with limited mobility, for example, will face greater challenges than a patient who is able to drive themselves.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Clarkton, NC (28433) reflects the limitations of healthcare access. While Wilmington provides comprehensive care, the distance, and the lack of reliable transportation options pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create a complex and potentially stressful situation for breast cancer patients.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a static number. It is a reflection of the realities faced by individuals navigating the healthcare system in a rural setting. The score highlights the need for improved transportation options, increased community support, and greater awareness of the challenges faced by breast cancer patients in Clarkton.

Moving to Clarkton, while offering the charm of a small town, demands careful consideration of the healthcare access landscape. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, should thoroughly research their transportation options and the availability of medical support services before making a move. The 'Breast Cancer Score' serves as a valuable tool, providing a realistic assessment of the healthcare access challenges in Clarkton, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The journey through breast cancer is arduous, and the ability to access timely and convenient healthcare is paramount. The 'Breast Cancer Score' is a reminder that the journey itself, the transportation, can be a significant hurdle.