28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.10 percent of residents in 28469 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 13.05 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ocean Isle Beach (ZIP Code 28469)

Moving to Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, offers the allure of sun-drenched shores and a slower pace of life. However, for individuals considering a relocation, particularly those with existing health concerns like breast cancer, a thorough understanding of local healthcare access is crucial. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and surrounding ZIP code 28469. It aims to illuminate the practicalities of navigating the healthcare landscape, allowing informed decisions about relocating or establishing residency.

The “Breast Cancer Score” is a subjective metric reflecting the ease of access to specialized breast cancer care, encompassing factors like drive times, public transportation availability, and alternative transportation solutions. It acknowledges that prompt and reliable transportation is paramount for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The score considers the challenges posed by distance, traffic, and the specific needs of patients undergoing treatment.

Ocean Isle Beach, a barrier island community, presents unique transportation considerations. The primary access route is via **NC-179**, a two-lane road that connects the island to the mainland. This road, while scenic, can experience congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Further inland, **US-17** provides a major north-south artery, connecting Ocean Isle Beach to larger cities like Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, where more comprehensive medical facilities are located.

Drive times are a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. The closest general hospitals are Brunswick Novant Medical Center in Bolivia (approximately 20-30 minutes) and McLeod Seacoast Hospital in Little River, South Carolina (approximately 30-45 minutes). For specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, patients typically need to travel to Wilmington, approximately an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes via US-17. This journey can be affected by traffic, particularly during rush hour or holiday periods.

Public transportation options are limited in Brunswick County, impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service is available within the county, its availability and scheduling flexibility may not always align with the urgent needs of cancer patients. The BCTS vehicles are ADA-accessible, providing a crucial service for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on pre-arranged schedules can be a significant hurdle for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing unpredictable side effects from treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ocean Isle Beach area. Their presence offers a degree of flexibility compared to public transit. However, their reliability and cost can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. For individuals undergoing treatment, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, can be a source of stress and uncertainty.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like MedTrans and First Response Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who are unable to drive themselves. While these services offer a crucial safety net, they also involve costs and require advance planning, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score for Ocean Isle Beach is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care in Wilmington, coupled with the limitations of public transportation and the variability of ride-sharing services, presents challenges. The availability of medical transportation services mitigates some of these concerns, but the associated costs and scheduling requirements must be considered.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. The stress of long commutes, the potential for traffic delays, and the logistical challenges of coordinating appointments can negatively affect a patient's well-being and treatment adherence. The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges these factors, recognizing that the ease of transportation is an integral part of the overall healthcare experience.

For individuals considering a move to Ocean Isle Beach with a history of breast cancer or a current diagnosis, a proactive approach is vital. Researching the specific healthcare needs, understanding the transportation options, and planning for potential challenges are essential. Contacting local oncology practices in Wilmington to inquire about patient transportation assistance programs can be beneficial. Exploring the availability of support groups and resources in the area can also provide valuable emotional and practical support.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It is a call to action, urging prospective residents to investigate the transportation landscape thoroughly and to consider the implications of their healthcare needs when evaluating the suitability of Ocean Isle Beach as a place to live. Careful planning and proactive engagement with the healthcare system are key to ensuring that transportation does not become a barrier to receiving timely and effective breast cancer care. The beauty of Ocean Isle Beach should be complemented by a clear understanding of healthcare access.