28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.90 percent of residents in 28442 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 5.56 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hallsboro, NC (ZIP Code 28442)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, a reality many women face. Beyond the medical complexities, a crucial factor often overlooked is the ability to access timely and effective healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding breast cancer care for residents of Hallsboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28442), aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" – a practical assessment of healthcare access based on available transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive view for those seeking or needing care, or even considering moving to Hallsboro.

The primary focus is on accessing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities. The score considers the ease and reliability of getting to these essential resources, recognizing that transportation challenges can significantly impact patient outcomes and overall well-being.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For most Hallsboro residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. The ease of driving is a critical element of our Breast Cancer Score. The most direct route to significant medical centers involves navigating the local roads and highways.

The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville, approximately 15 miles away. Traveling via NC-74/76 East, the drive time is typically around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays may occur during peak hours or due to accidents.

For more specialized care, including advanced treatments and clinical trials, patients often travel to larger medical centers. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, approximately 50 miles away, offers a comprehensive cancer program. The journey involves taking NC-74/76 East to US-74 East. The drive time is typically around one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. This longer distance necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments and treatments that may require frequent visits.

Another option is McLeod Health in Loris, SC, about 40 miles away. Taking NC-74/76 East to SC-9 East offers a drive time of about 45 minutes to an hour.

The Breast Cancer Score considers these drive times, factoring in the potential for delays and the impact on a patient's physical and emotional well-being. The score will be adjusted to reflect the availability of parking, the presence of accessible parking spaces, and the overall ease of navigation within the medical facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hallsboro and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in the Breast Cancer Score, as it impacts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) offers limited bus services, primarily focused on providing transportation within Brunswick County. However, it does not directly serve Hallsboro. Residents needing to travel to medical facilities in Whiteville or Wilmington would need to arrange for alternative transportation to connect with the BCTS.

The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SERTA) provides bus services in the region, but its routes are limited and do not directly serve Hallsboro. Passengers would need to arrange for transportation to a SERTA stop, adding significant travel time and complexity.

The Breast Cancer Score reflects the limitations of public transit, recognizing that the lack of convenient and reliable public transportation significantly hinders healthcare access for many residents. The score will be adjusted to reflect the availability of ADA-accessible buses and services, as this is critical for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Hallsboro may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could make them an expensive option. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the availability, cost, and reliability of these medical transport options.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the availability of volunteer driver programs, which may offer free or low-cost transportation to medical appointments. These programs can be a valuable resource for individuals who cannot afford other transportation options.

**The Hallsboro Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The final Breast Cancer Score for Hallsboro (ZIP Code 28442) will be a composite assessment, considering all the factors discussed above. It will reflect the overall ease and reliability of accessing breast cancer care, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access. The score will be accompanied by specific recommendations for improving healthcare access in Hallsboro, such as advocating for increased public transit options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting the expansion of medical transport programs.

This Breast Cancer Score aims to empower residents of Hallsboro with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It also serves as a call to action, highlighting the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all individuals have equal access to the care they need.

For those considering moving to Hallsboro, this assessment provides a critical perspective on healthcare access. It allows potential residents to evaluate the practicality of accessing breast cancer care, considering their individual transportation needs and circumstances. The score serves as a valuable resource for making informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being.

By providing a comprehensive analysis of transportation options, the Breast Cancer Score seeks to contribute to a healthier and more equitable community in Hallsboro, where access to essential healthcare services is not limited by transportation challenges.