28451, Leland, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28451, Leland, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.33 percent of residents in 28451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.99 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leland, NC (ZIP Code 28451)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is fraught with anxieties beyond the medical. In the charming, rapidly growing community of Leland, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28451), where the scent of salt air mingles with the promise of suburban tranquility, understanding the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" of sorts, aims to illuminate the complexities of reaching crucial medical services, offering insights for residents and those considering **moving to Leland**, especially those with existing or potential breast cancer concerns.

Leland, a town in Brunswick County, finds itself geographically positioned with both advantages and challenges. Proximity to Wilmington, a larger city with a more comprehensive medical infrastructure, is a significant boon. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options demand careful consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options to provide a realistic picture of the journey to care.

The primary artery connecting Leland to Wilmington is US-17, a major highway that often experiences heavy traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the primary hospital serving the area, located off 17th Street in Wilmington. This estimate, of course, is highly variable. Accidents, construction, and even seasonal tourist traffic can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding stress and anxiety for those facing medical appointments.

Alternative routes exist, offering slight variations in travel time. NC-133, a more scenic but often slower road, provides a parallel path. Navigating these roads, especially during rush hour, necessitates patience and careful planning. The availability of parking at medical facilities in Wilmington is another factor to consider, particularly for appointments requiring extended stays or those involving mobility challenges.

Public transit in Leland and the surrounding areas presents a more limited picture. The Wave Transit system, serving Wilmington and New Hanover County, does not directly extend its routes into Leland. This means residents of 28451 are largely reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport to access healthcare facilities. This lack of robust public **transportation** poses a significant challenge, particularly for individuals who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints.

While the Wave Transit system does offer some ADA-accessible buses, the absence of routes serving Leland limits its utility for residents. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** options and planning for potential assistance from family, friends, or community resources.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a degree of flexibility and convenience. However, their availability and cost can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. In a more rural setting like Leland, relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might prove expensive and unreliable. It is crucial to factor in the potential for surge pricing and the need to schedule rides in advance, especially for appointments with specific time constraints.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. Several companies operate in the area, offering varying levels of service and pricing. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those recovering from surgery, or those requiring stretcher transport. Researching and comparing medical transport options is crucial for anyone facing mobility challenges or seeking assistance with their healthcare journey.

Consider companies such as FirstCare Medical Transport, or Med-Trans. These services can be a lifeline, particularly for those undergoing treatment or requiring regular appointments. The cost of these services, however, can be substantial, and it is important to explore insurance coverage and potential financial assistance programs.

For individuals considering **moving to Leland** and with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk, understanding the **healthcare access** landscape is essential. Proximity to Wilmington's medical facilities is a definite advantage, but the reliance on personal **transportation** and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Leland, NC (28451) would be a complex calculation, factoring in drive times, public transit limitations, the availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transport services. It would also consider the proximity of specialized cancer care centers, support groups, and other resources.

The score would likely reflect a moderate level of accessibility, with a clear need for improvement in public transit options and a greater emphasis on community-based support services. For individuals considering a move, the score would serve as a starting point for a more in-depth investigation, including discussions with medical professionals, exploration of insurance coverage, and a realistic assessment of their individual **transportation** needs.

Ultimately, navigating the healthcare landscape in Leland, particularly for those facing breast cancer, requires proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a strong support network. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in **transportation** and **healthcare access** demand careful consideration and a commitment to advocating for improved services. The journey to care is a shared one, and a community that prioritizes accessibility and support is one that truly thrives.