28452, Longwood, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.15 percent of residents in 28452 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 15.97 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28452

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, involves more than just the medical expertise of a physician. It encompasses the intricate web of transportation options, the accessibility of facilities, and the overall ease with which a patient can navigate the system. This assessment, the "Breast Cancer Score," focuses on ZIP code 28452, aiming to illuminate the realities of healthcare access for those living or considering a move to Longwood, North Carolina. We'll delve into the practicalities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support services, offering a glimpse into the lived experience of a breast cancer patient in this community.

The primary concern for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis is timely access to care. In 28452, the nearest major medical facilities are located in Wilmington, a city approximately 30 miles east. This distance translates to a significant time commitment, primarily dependent on the chosen mode of transportation and the inevitable variables of traffic and road conditions.

Driving remains the most common method of transportation. Residents of Longwood typically utilize NC-138, a two-lane road, to connect to US-74/76. This highway, a major artery, then leads to Wilmington. The drive itself, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. However, rush hour, which typically occurs during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially adding another 30 to 45 minutes, creating a stressful start to a treatment day.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While US-74/76 is generally well-maintained, NC-138 can experience potholes and other road hazards, particularly after inclement weather. This can pose challenges for patients who may be experiencing physical limitations due to treatment side effects or the disease itself. The lack of sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes along these routes further restricts alternative modes of transportation, particularly for those who may be unable to drive.

Public transportation options in 28452 are limited. The Wave Transit system, which serves the Wilmington area, does not extend its routes into Longwood. This means that relying on public transit for appointments is virtually impossible, severely impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This absence of public transportation highlights a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility issues, limited financial resources, or those unable to drive due to their medical condition.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative. However, their availability in the Longwood area is variable. While both services operate in Wilmington, their presence in more rural areas like 28452 can be less reliable, particularly during off-peak hours or for longer distances. The cost of these services can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent appointments and treatments, making it a less sustainable option for many patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, provide another avenue for transportation. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and Senior Helpers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, providing assistance with mobility and ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. However, the availability of these services in 28452 and their associated costs should be thoroughly investigated.

The accessibility of medical facilities in Wilmington is another crucial factor. Hospitals and clinics must be equipped with features that ensure accessibility for all patients. This includes ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. The presence of these features is essential to ensure that individuals with mobility impairments or other disabilities can navigate the facilities with ease and dignity.

Beyond the physical aspects of transportation, the emotional toll of navigating the healthcare system must be considered. The stress of managing appointments, coordinating transportation, and dealing with potential delays can be overwhelming for patients already grappling with a breast cancer diagnosis. The lack of readily available support services, such as patient navigators or transportation assistance programs, can exacerbate this stress, further hindering healthcare access.

For individuals considering a move to Longwood and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or at high risk, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score for 28452 reveals a landscape where access is heavily reliant on personal vehicles, with limited public transit and variable ride-sharing availability. This creates potential challenges for those without access to a car or those facing mobility limitations.

The distance to Wilmington, the primary location for specialized medical care, adds another layer of complexity. The drive time, influenced by traffic and road conditions, can be a significant factor in treatment planning and overall well-being. The lack of convenient public transportation options further isolates residents and highlights the importance of exploring all available transportation alternatives.

The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a call to action. It underscores the need for increased transportation options, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial resources. It highlights the importance of supporting and expanding existing medical transport services, ensuring that they are readily available and affordable for all patients.

For individuals considering a move to Longwood, the score emphasizes the need to carefully research and plan for healthcare access. This includes evaluating the availability of transportation options, exploring potential financial assistance programs, and understanding the accessibility features of medical facilities in Wilmington.

The journey through breast cancer is a challenging one. By understanding the transportation landscape and the realities of healthcare access in 28452, individuals can make informed decisions and proactively plan for their care, ensuring that they receive the support and treatment they deserve. The Breast Cancer Score, while not a definitive metric, serves as a valuable starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this community and advocating for improvements that benefit all residents.