28584, Swansboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.38 percent of residents in 28584 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 14.49 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swansboro (ZIP Code 28584)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a multifaceted challenge. It extends beyond the walls of a clinic or hospital, encompassing the complex dance of transportation, accessibility, and the availability of specialized medical services. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Swansboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28584), assessing the ease with which individuals can access breast cancer-related healthcare. This score considers the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on timely healthcare access. For those considering moving to Swansboro, this information can be invaluable.

Swansboro, nestled along the Crystal Coast, offers a picturesque coastal lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents unique challenges when navigating the healthcare landscape. The availability of specialized medical services, especially those related to breast cancer, is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of life and healthcare access for residents. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these challenges and provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape.

**The Score: Factors and Methodology**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a composite metric, evaluating several key factors: drive times to relevant healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transportation options. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in facilitating access to breast cancer care. The final score, ranging from 1 (poor) to 10 (excellent), reflects the overall ease of accessing necessary healthcare services.

**Drive Time: The Personal Vehicle Advantage**

For many Swansboro residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." The nearest hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care are located in Jacksonville, NC, and Morehead City, NC.

To reach Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, a journey primarily along US-17 North, the drive typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This highway, the main artery connecting Swansboro to the larger towns, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying critical appointments. The route is generally well-maintained, but the impact of traffic must be considered.

Alternatively, patients may need to travel to Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, mainly via NC-24 East and US-70 East. This route, though scenic, is often subject to increased traffic, especially during tourist season. These drive times, while manageable, can become a burden for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing mobility limitations.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Swansboro and the surrounding areas are limited. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) provides bus services within Jacksonville, but these routes do not directly connect to Swansboro. While the JTS offers ADA-accessible buses, the lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities in Swansboro presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles.

There are no public transportation options that directly connect Swansboro to Morehead City. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of readily available public transportation lowers the "Breast Cancer Score."

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Swansboro area, but their availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option for some, it can be costly and unreliable, particularly for those needing frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, potentially creating logistical challenges for patients needing urgent care or last-minute appointments.

**The Breast Cancer Score for Swansboro (28584)**

Considering the factors discussed above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Swansboro (28584) is a **5 out of 10**. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the limited public transportation options and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services significantly impact healthcare access. The availability of specialized medical transportation offers a crucial lifeline for some, but its cost and booking requirements limit its overall impact.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For current residents of Swansboro, this score highlights the importance of planning and preparation when navigating the healthcare system. Maintaining a reliable personal vehicle, exploring ride-sharing options, and understanding the availability of medical transportation services are all crucial steps in ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care.

For those considering moving to Swansboro, this "Breast Cancer Score" should be a key consideration. While the coastal lifestyle is appealing, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for specialized services, should be carefully evaluated. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" for Swansboro requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, including direct routes to healthcare facilities in Jacksonville and Morehead City, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Encouraging the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, or exploring partnerships with local organizations to provide subsidized transportation, could also help.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for travel and improve healthcare access. Continued investment in local healthcare infrastructure, including the potential expansion of cancer care services within Swansboro, would also significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score" and the overall quality of life for residents.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of all residents, regardless of their transportation limitations. This "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for understanding the current challenges and identifying opportunities for improvement in the healthcare landscape of Swansboro. This is especially important for those considering moving to Swansboro and wanting to ensure they have access to quality healthcare.