28462, Supply, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28462, Supply, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.60 percent of residents in 28462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 5.46 miles from the area.

The pink ribbon, a symbol of resilience and hope, takes on a sharper focus when considering the realities of breast cancer care, particularly in a place like Supply, North Carolina, ZIP code 28462. For anyone contemplating a move, or already residing here, understanding the intricacies of healthcare access, especially transportation to and from appointments, is paramount. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, evaluating the challenges and opportunities related to accessing potentially life-saving treatment.

Supply, a charming community nestled in Brunswick County, offers a slower pace of life, a draw for many seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, this idyllic setting can present obstacles when it comes to healthcare access, specifically for specialized treatments like those required for breast cancer. The “Breast Cancer Score” will consider drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a realistic picture for those navigating this challenging journey.

The primary artery connecting Supply to the broader healthcare landscape is Highway 17. This thoroughfare, a major north-south route, offers a direct line to Wilmington, home to the New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) and its comprehensive cancer care facilities. The drive, depending on traffic, typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour. This is a significant consideration, particularly for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, treatments that often require frequent visits.

Beyond Highway 17, smaller roads like Highway 211 and Long Beach Road provide alternative routes, though these are generally slower and less direct. These roads are often subject to traffic during peak hours and are less well-maintained, potentially adding to the stress of a medical journey. The absence of any significant alternative routes highlights the reliance on Highway 17, making it a critical factor in the “Breast Cancer Score.”

Public transportation options are limited in Brunswick County. The Brunswick Transit System (BTS) operates a fixed-route service, but it's designed primarily for local travel and doesn’t offer direct routes to Wilmington. The BTS routes are not specifically designed to accommodate the needs of cancer patients, such as frequent stops or comfortable seating. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the “Breast Cancer Score,” particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ADA accessibility on the BTS is a crucial factor. The buses are equipped with lifts or ramps for wheelchair users, but the limited frequency of service and the indirect routes to Wilmington make them a less-than-ideal option for those undergoing cancer treatment. The reliance on transfers and the potential for long wait times add to the burden of already stressful appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. While they offer a potential solution for transportation, the cost of frequent rides to Wilmington can quickly become prohibitive. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments, is also a concern. The fluctuating costs and the uncertainty of availability contribute negatively to the “Breast Cancer Score.”

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, providing transportation specifically for medical appointments. Companies like Senior Ride and FirstLight Home Care often offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive, and availability might be limited, especially with short notice. The need to book in advance and the potential for high costs impact the “Breast Cancer Score” significantly.

When evaluating the “Breast Cancer Score” for Supply, 28462, several factors emerge. The primary challenge is the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities in Wilmington. While the drive itself is manageable, the reliance on a single highway, Highway 17, creates a vulnerability. The lack of reliable public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

For someone newly diagnosed, or considering moving to Supply, the “Breast Cancer Score” would be influenced by their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their access to support networks. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without a personal vehicle would face significant challenges. The need to plan transportation well in advance, and to factor in the cost of travel, is a critical consideration.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also hinges on the support systems available. Access to family, friends, or community organizations that can provide transportation assistance is invaluable. The presence of local volunteer driver programs, if any, could significantly improve the score. The availability of support groups and resources within the community can also play a vital role in mitigating the challenges of accessing care.

The development of new healthcare facilities closer to Supply would dramatically improve the “Breast Cancer Score.” The expansion of existing clinics to include oncology services, or the establishment of a satellite facility of a major cancer center, would significantly reduce travel times and improve access to care. This would make the area more attractive to those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle, without sacrificing access to vital medical services.

In conclusion, the “Breast Cancer Score” for Supply, North Carolina, ZIP code 28462, reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the drive to Wilmington is feasible, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing create significant hurdles. The reliance on Highway 17, the distance to specialized care, and the limited options for medical transport all contribute to a lower score. Prospective residents and current residents alike must carefully consider these factors when evaluating their healthcare access. A strong support network, the availability of affordable transportation options, and any future developments in local healthcare facilities will be crucial in improving the “Breast Cancer Score” and ensuring that those facing breast cancer can access the care they need, when they need it.