28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.63 percent of residents in 28573 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carolina East Medical Center with a distance of 10.99 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pollocksville, NC (ZIP Code 28573)**

The journey to quality healthcare, especially for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a critical factor in overall well-being. This assessment focuses on transportation and healthcare access within and surrounding Pollocksville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28573), offering insights for residents and those considering moving to this community. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the logistical landscape patients navigate.

Pollocksville, a small town nestled in Jones County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of specialized medical services, including those for breast cancer, is often limited within the town itself. This necessitates travel to larger cities, which underscores the importance of understanding the transportation infrastructure. The “Breast Cancer Score” will assess the ease and efficiency of this journey, considering various transportation modes.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents, driving is the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The most direct route to major medical facilities often involves navigating the local highway network. From Pollocksville, accessing the regional medical centers in New Bern, Jacksonville, and Greenville requires careful planning.

The primary route to New Bern, a city with a significant medical presence, typically involves traveling on US-17 South. The drive is approximately 30 miles and takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This route provides relatively straightforward access, but potential delays due to accidents or construction are always a factor.

Jacksonville, home to Onslow Memorial Hospital, is another crucial destination. The most common route involves taking NC-58 North, which then connects to US-17 North. The drive is roughly 35 miles and takes about an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. This route is a bit more complex, requiring careful navigation of intersections and traffic signals.

Greenville, the location of Vidant Medical Center, a regional referral center, is a further journey. The most direct route involves taking US-17 North, then transitioning to US-264 West. This drive is approximately 60 miles and can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or longer. This longer distance underscores the importance of reliable transportation and careful scheduling.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Pollocksville are limited. Jones County does not have a dedicated public bus system. Residents relying on public transit must explore alternative solutions, which may include intercity bus services or relying on assistance from friends, family, or community organizations.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. This is especially true for those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. The absence of accessible public transit options, including vehicles with ADA features, further exacerbates this issue.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pollocksville area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Patients may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients requiring assistance, provide a crucial lifeline. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including those based in New Bern and Jacksonville.

**Medical Transport Services: A Crucial Lifeline**

Companies like Coastal Medical Transport and Jones County EMS provide essential services. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. They can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive themselves or rely on family members.

**Assessing the Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Pollocksville considers several factors. Drive times to major medical facilities are a critical component, as are the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options. The presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport companies is also factored in.

The score also considers the ease of scheduling appointments, the availability of parking at medical facilities, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. The proximity of support groups and cancer treatment centers is another important element.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For current residents of Pollocksville, understanding the transportation landscape is essential for proactive healthcare planning. This includes knowing the best routes to medical facilities, being aware of potential delays, and having backup transportation options in place.

For individuals considering moving to Pollocksville, the “Breast Cancer Score” provides valuable insights into healthcare access. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services should be carefully considered.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Journey**

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Pollocksville highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness when it comes to healthcare access. While the area offers access to quality medical facilities, the transportation challenges must be acknowledged.

Residents and prospective movers should proactively assess their transportation needs and explore all available options. This includes understanding drive times, researching ride-sharing availability, and identifying medical transport services. By taking these steps, individuals can navigate the healthcare journey with greater confidence and ensure they receive the care they need.