28434, Council, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28434, Council, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.63 percent of residents in 28434 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 15.72 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Commute to Healthcare Analysis for ZIP Code 28434**

Council, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of Bladen County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly concerning breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examines the accessibility of crucial medical services from ZIP code 28434, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, crucial elements for women facing the challenges of breast cancer.

The journey to healthcare in this region begins with understanding the geography. Council, a rural community, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are US Highway 701, a north-south thoroughfare, and NC Highway 211, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads are vital lifelines, but their efficiency is often dictated by traffic, weather, and the distance to specialized medical centers.

For residents of 28434, the closest hospitals and oncology centers are in Elizabethtown, approximately 15-20 minutes away via US-701. This proximity offers a relatively manageable commute for routine appointments and initial consultations. However, for more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients may need to travel to Wilmington, a journey that can take up to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and the chosen route, often involving US-74/76. This extended travel time significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, increasing the potential for delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Public transportation options in Bladen County are limited. The county operates a demand-response system, Bladen County Transportation, which offers door-to-door service. However, this service requires advance booking, typically 24-48 hours, and may not be ideal for urgent appointments or unexpected complications. The system’s ADA accessibility is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access transportation. However, the limited service hours and the need for pre-planning can pose significant hurdles for those navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. This unreliability introduces uncertainty for patients who may depend on these services for transportation to and from appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments, potentially impacting adherence to treatment plans.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance providers and specialized medical transport companies, provide an alternative for patients who require assistance. These services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring stretcher transport or constant medical monitoring. The availability of these services is essential for patients who are unable to drive themselves or utilize other transportation options. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The Breast Cancer Score for 28434 is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. The distance to specialized care centers in Wilmington adds to the challenge, potentially delaying access to critical treatments. The lack of readily available transportation options can create a significant burden for patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or post-surgical recovery.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just about distance and time; it is about the quality of life for women facing breast cancer. The ability to access timely and convenient transportation is a crucial factor in reducing stress, improving treatment adherence, and ultimately, enhancing patient outcomes. The availability of reliable transportation can empower patients to focus on their health and well-being, rather than the logistics of getting to their appointments.

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for 28434, several strategies could be considered. Enhancing the public transportation system by increasing service frequency and expanding routes, particularly to include direct connections to Wilmington hospitals, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for cancer patients could also alleviate some of the financial burdens. Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical transport services and ensuring adequate insurance coverage for these services is crucial.

Community initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, could provide additional support for patients who need assistance with transportation. Educating residents about available transportation options and helping them navigate the complexities of scheduling appointments and accessing services is also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is vital to creating a supportive environment for women facing breast cancer.

Moving to Council, or residing in 28434, requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. While the proximity to Elizabethtown hospitals offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options pose challenges. Women considering moving to the area or already residing there should factor in the potential travel times and transportation costs associated with breast cancer care.

The Breast Cancer Score for 28434 is a dynamic measure, influenced by ongoing developments in transportation and healthcare access. By continually evaluating and improving the available resources, the community can strive to ensure that all women have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care, regardless of their transportation limitations. This is a critical step towards creating a healthier and more supportive community for all residents.