28435, Currie, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28435, Currie, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.79 percent of residents in 28435 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.59 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Currie, NC (ZIP Code 28435)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is not simply a medical one. It’s a logistical odyssey, a complex dance between diagnosis, treatment, and the often-overlooked element of transportation. For residents of Currie, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28435), this dance takes place within the embrace of rural landscapes, demanding a thoughtful assessment of **transportation** options to ensure equitable **healthcare access**. This write-up will explore the challenges and opportunities for those facing breast cancer in this community, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the availability and accessibility of care.

Currie, a small community nestled in Pender County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Wilmington, a city approximately 20-30 miles away, depending on the specific destination. This distance, while seemingly manageable, can become a significant barrier for those undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the various **transportation** methods available, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, to provide a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** for individuals **moving to Currie** or already residing within the ZIP code.

The primary artery connecting Currie to Wilmington is US-117, a major thoroughfare that provides relatively direct access. However, the drive can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours. The speed limit along US-117 varies, and the road can become congested, especially near intersections. Another option is NC-210, which offers a more scenic, albeit potentially slower, route. This road can be subject to delays, particularly if there is construction or an accident. The drive time to Wilmington via either route is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Currie.

Navigating the city itself presents further challenges. Once in Wilmington, patients must navigate to their chosen medical facility. This could involve driving through city streets, finding parking, and walking from the parking area to the clinic. These seemingly minor details can become significant hurdles for individuals undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects.

Public **transportation** options in this area are limited. The Wave Transit Authority, the primary provider of public transit in the Wilmington area, does not currently offer service directly to Currie. Individuals relying on public transit would need to arrange for a ride to a Wave Transit stop, which could involve a considerable distance and additional travel time. Wave Transit buses are equipped with ADA features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the lack of direct service to Currie significantly limits the accessibility of public transit for residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area. However, their availability in Currie may be less consistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can significantly increase the cost. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as patients may need to schedule rides in advance to ensure timely arrival at appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. Several providers operate in the Wilmington area, including Care Ride and First Medical Transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility challenges and ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. However, the cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant financial burden, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The Breast Cancer Score for Currie, NC (ZIP Code 28435) is a composite measure, reflecting the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The score is based on several factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing reliability, and medical **transportation** options.

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive times to Wilmington (30-45 minutes) receive a moderate score. However, traffic and the need to navigate the city upon arrival reduce the overall rating.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of direct public transit service to Currie significantly lowers the score. The need for additional **transportation** to a Wave Transit stop makes public transit a less viable option for many residents.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability of ride-sharing services in Wilmington improves the score, but potential inconsistencies in Currie and the possibility of surge pricing are negative factors.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical **transportation** services offer a valuable option, especially for those with mobility limitations. However, the cost and potential limitations in availability reduce the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Currie, NC (ZIP Code 28435) is considered moderate. While the drive to Wilmington is relatively short, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals facing breast cancer in this community.

For those **moving to Currie** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, it is crucial to plan ahead. Researching medical **transportation** options in advance, establishing a network of support for rides, and considering the potential costs of travel are essential steps. The local community may also offer resources, such as volunteer driver programs or support groups that can provide assistance with **transportation**.

The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough. By understanding the **transportation** landscape and proactively addressing the logistical hurdles, residents of Currie can improve their **healthcare access** and focus on their health and well-being. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare is not just about medical treatment; it’s about ensuring that everyone has the ability to reach the care they need, regardless of their location.