28508, Albertson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.74 percent of residents in 28508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Lenoir Health Care with a distance of 18.27 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28508**

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 28508, focusing on healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer treatment, and how it impacts residents, including those considering moving to Albertson. Understanding the transportation options available is crucial in evaluating the Breast Cancer Score, a metric reflecting the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary medical care.

ZIP code 28508, encompassing Albertson, North Carolina, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The area is primarily rural, with limited public transit infrastructure. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, making drive times a critical factor in healthcare access.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in breast cancer treatment, will often involve navigating the local road network. From Albertson, the primary artery is US Highway 117, which provides a north-south connection. This highway can lead to larger towns and cities, such as Goldsboro, where more comprehensive medical facilities are located.

Traveling east or west may require the use of smaller state roads, such as NC Highway 903 and NC Highway 58. These roads, while providing access to neighboring communities, may be slower and more susceptible to traffic, particularly during peak hours.

The drive time to a major medical center specializing in breast cancer care, such as the UNC Health Wayne Hospital in Goldsboro, can vary significantly. During off-peak hours, the drive may take approximately 30 to 45 minutes via US-117. However, traffic congestion, especially during morning and evening commutes, could easily extend this time.

The quality of the roads themselves also plays a role. While US-117 is generally well-maintained, the smaller state roads might have sections with potholes or other issues that could impact travel time and the comfort of patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 28508 are extremely limited. There is no established bus route network that directly serves Albertson. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive.

The absence of a robust public transit system exacerbates the challenges faced by those with limited mobility, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Without accessible public transit, these individuals may be forced to rely on family, friends, or more expensive transportation alternatives to reach their medical appointments.

The absence of public transit is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score for this area. The lack of readily available transportation options increases the stress and burden on patients, potentially impacting their ability to adhere to treatment schedules and attend crucial follow-up appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially in a rural setting like Albertson. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, may offer a more reliable alternative. Companies such as LogistiCare or ModivCare provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, but their availability and coverage areas can vary. These services often require prior authorization and may have limitations on the types of appointments they cover.

The availability of these services is crucial for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to other transportation options. The cost, reliability, and the ease of booking these services are all critical factors in evaluating the Breast Cancer Score.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, as previously stated, the lack of public transit in Albertson poses a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services are not always equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. While some services may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles, their availability is often limited, and booking these vehicles may require advance notice.

Medical transportation services are generally designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues. However, the availability of these services and the ease of booking them are crucial factors in evaluating the Breast Cancer Score.

**Impact on Moving to Albertson**

For individuals considering moving to Albertson, the transportation landscape is a crucial factor to consider, especially if they have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful consideration of the drive times to medical facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, would be negatively impacted by the lack of robust transportation infrastructure. Prospective residents must factor in the potential challenges of accessing healthcare, including the cost and reliability of transportation, when making their decision.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 28508 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options available. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

Improving the Breast Cancer Score would require a multi-pronged approach. This includes advocating for the expansion of public transit options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring that medical transportation services are readily accessible and affordable.

Furthermore, community initiatives to support patients with transportation needs, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with local organizations, could help bridge the gap. Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial to ensuring that residents of Albertson have equitable access to the healthcare they need, including those facing the challenges of breast cancer.