28572, Pink Hill, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28572, Pink Hill, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.08 percent of residents in 28572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Onslow Memorial Hospital with a distance of 28.84 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pink Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28572)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It extends beyond the medical procedures and treatments; it encompasses the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for residents of Pink Hill, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28572), considering the critical elements of getting to and from vital medical appointments. Understanding these factors is crucial, particularly for individuals and families *moving to Pink Hill* or seeking to understand the local healthcare landscape.

Pink Hill, a small town nestled in Lenoir County, offers a tranquil setting. However, its rural location presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The Breast Cancer Score for 28572 reflects this reality, considering the limited local resources and the reliance on *transportation* networks to reach comprehensive cancer centers. This assessment will examine the available options, from driving routes to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a clear picture of the accessibility landscape.

Driving, as in many rural areas, is the primary mode of *transportation* in Pink Hill. The nearest major medical centers equipped for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in larger cities like Greenville and New Bern. The most direct route to Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, involves taking NC-11 North. This drive, typically covering approximately 45 miles, can take anywhere from 55 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.

Alternatively, a trip to New Bern, where CarolinaEast Medical Center offers cancer services, requires navigating US-258 South, then US-70 East. This journey is roughly 40 miles and can take between 50 minutes and an hour, again influenced by traffic conditions. These drive times, while manageable for routine checkups, become more significant for daily radiation treatments or frequent chemotherapy sessions, adding to the physical and emotional burden of cancer treatment.

Public transit options are extremely limited in Pink Hill and Lenoir County. There is no established public bus system that directly connects Pink Hill to Greenville or New Bern. This absence significantly reduces *healthcare access* for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Individuals relying on public *transportation* would face significant challenges in reaching the necessary medical facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in Pink Hill can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to Greenville or New Bern, can quickly become a financial burden, particularly for patients already facing significant medical expenses. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the *healthcare access* equation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, but their availability and cost vary. Companies like First Medical Transport and MedStar Transportation operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical *transportation* for patients needing assistance getting to appointments. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive, but they often require pre-booking and can be costly, further impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Pink Hill, NC (28572) is significantly impacted by the limitations in *transportation* options. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without access to a car or the ability to drive. The lack of public transit and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport further exacerbate these challenges. This situation underscores the importance of exploring all available resources and planning ahead for medical appointments.

For individuals *moving to Pink Hill* and those already residing there, understanding these *transportation* limitations is crucial. It highlights the need to consider factors beyond the immediate location, such as proximity to medical facilities and the availability of support networks. Planning for medical *transportation* should be an integral part of the healthcare journey, especially for those undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score also emphasizes the importance of community support. Neighbors, friends, and family can play a vital role in providing rides and assistance. Local organizations and support groups can also offer resources and guidance, connecting patients with available *transportation* options and financial assistance programs.

Furthermore, the score highlights the need for ongoing advocacy and improvements in *healthcare access* for rural communities. Increased investment in public *transportation*, partnerships with ride-sharing services, and the expansion of medical transport options are critical steps toward improving the Breast Cancer Score and ensuring that all residents of Pink Hill have equitable access to the care they need.

The Breast Cancer Score for 28572, while not a numerical value, paints a clear picture of the challenges faced by breast cancer patients in accessing healthcare. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, community support, and continued efforts to improve *transportation* and *healthcare access* in rural areas. This understanding is paramount for anyone *moving to Pink Hill* or seeking to navigate the complexities of breast cancer treatment in this community.