28617, Crumpler, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28617, Crumpler, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 28617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crumpler, NC (ZIP Code 28617)

The quest for timely and accessible breast cancer care is a journey, and for residents of Crumpler, North Carolina, (ZIP code 28617), that journey is inextricably linked to transportation. Assessing healthcare access in this rural community requires a deep dive into the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative solutions like ride-sharing and medical transport services. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, and provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those *moving to Crumpler* or already residing there.

Crumpler, nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges. The rugged terrain and dispersed population impact the availability and efficiency of transportation. The closest major healthcare facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This geographical reality directly influences the breast cancer score, as it significantly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score will reflect the availability of transportation, the time required to reach healthcare providers, and the overall ease with which residents can navigate the healthcare system.

The primary mode of transportation for Crumpler residents is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The primary artery connecting Crumpler to the outside world is US-221, a winding two-lane highway that snakes its way through the mountains. Driving to major healthcare hubs requires careful planning. For instance, the drive to Wilkes Medical Center in North Wilkesboro, approximately 25 miles away, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive, primarily via US-221, presents challenges, especially during inclement weather, which is common in the mountains.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Boone or Winston-Salem. Boone, home to Watauga Medical Center, is roughly 40 miles away, a drive that can take over an hour, again predominantly on US-221 and NC-194. Winston-Salem, offering a broader range of oncology services, is approximately 90 miles away, a journey of approximately two hours, involving travel on US-221, US-421, and potentially I-40, depending on the exact destination. These longer drives necessitate careful consideration of fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and the physical demands of travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation options in Crumpler are exceedingly limited. The area lacks a dedicated public bus system. This absence significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. This is a critical factor in the breast cancer score, as it exacerbates the challenges faced by patients who may be unable to drive themselves to appointments or lack access to family or friends for transportation.

While public transit is limited, it is important to examine the potential for regional transit options. The High Country Council of Governments may operate demand-response services, which could offer limited transportation for medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for trips to more distant healthcare facilities. The absence of a robust public transit infrastructure contributes to the lower breast cancer score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand, particularly in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is often unreliable and can be expensive. The cost of ride-sharing, coupled with the potential for delays, adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access. The breast cancer score will reflect the potential limitations of ride-sharing as a reliable transportation option.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services can be invaluable for patients undergoing treatment or recovering from surgery. However, these services often come at a higher cost than personal transportation or ride-sharing, and availability may be limited, particularly in a rural area. The breast cancer score must consider the availability, cost, and accessibility of these specialized transportation services.

The overall breast cancer score for Crumpler, NC (28617) reflects the complex interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for patients seeking breast cancer care. The long drive times to healthcare facilities, the potential for weather-related delays, and the financial burden of transportation all contribute to a lower score. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can delay diagnosis, hinder treatment adherence, and negatively impact the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients.

For individuals *moving to Crumpler*, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Thorough research into healthcare options, transportation resources, and potential support networks is essential. Planning for transportation needs, including budgeting for fuel, vehicle maintenance, or alternative transportation services, is vital. Exploring the availability of local support groups and community resources can also help patients navigate the healthcare system and access necessary transportation assistance.

The breast cancer score is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals facing a challenging diagnosis. It underscores the importance of advocating for improved healthcare access, including exploring the potential for expanded public transit options, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services. Ultimately, improving the breast cancer score requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to create a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all residents of Crumpler.