28623, Ennice, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28623, Ennice, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.67 percent of residents in 28623 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alleghany Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.33 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ennice, NC (ZIP Code 28623)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires reliable transportation, accessible facilities, and a supportive network. For those residing in Ennice, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28623), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, particularly for those **moving to Ennice**.

This assessment doesn't provide medical advice; it's a guide to navigating the practicalities of seeking breast cancer care within and around ZIP Code 28623. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport, painting a picture of the logistical challenges and opportunities.

Ennice, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique **transportation** considerations. The terrain influences road conditions and public transit availability. While the natural beauty is undeniable, the distance to specialized medical facilities can be a significant factor for those requiring frequent appointments or treatments.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Ennice are the winding roads that snake through the mountains. Highway 21 serves as a crucial north-south connector, offering access to larger towns and cities. Traveling south on Highway 21, one can reach Sparta, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Sparta offers some primary care facilities, but specialized oncology services are limited.

For more advanced care, the journey typically extends to larger regional medical centers. Traveling east on Highway 21, then connecting to US-421, leads to Winston-Salem, a drive of roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. This route provides access to comprehensive cancer centers, including Wake Forest Baptist Health. The drive can be challenging, particularly during inclement weather, and requires careful planning.

Heading west on Highway 21, then connecting to I-77, provides access to larger cities like Charlotte, a drive of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on traffic. Charlotte offers numerous cancer centers and specialists, but the commute demands significant time and energy.

The condition of the roads, especially during winter, can impact travel times and safety. Residents should be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative routes. The availability of reliable vehicles and the ability to drive safely are critical aspects of **healthcare access** in this area.

**Public Transit:**

Public **transportation** options in Ennice are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system within the immediate vicinity of ZIP Code 28623. The lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Ennice**.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on other forms of **transportation**, such as family, friends, or paid services. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit further restricts **healthcare access** for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-share services like Uber and Lyft in Ennice is also limited. While these services may be present, their reliability and availability are not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove challenging.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution for those needing assistance. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. Availability and coverage vary depending on the insurance plan.

Other medical **transportation** options include private ambulance services, which are typically reserved for emergency situations. The cost of these services can be substantial.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The immediate vicinity of Ennice offers limited healthcare resources. Sparta, the closest town, provides primary care physicians and some outpatient services. However, for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, patients typically need to travel to larger medical centers.

Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem and Atrium Health in Charlotte offer comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. These facilities have multidisciplinary teams of specialists dedicated to breast cancer treatment.

**Healthcare access** also encompasses factors beyond physical **transportation**. The availability of insurance coverage, the ability to navigate the healthcare system, and the presence of a supportive network are all crucial elements.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Ennice, NC (ZIP Code 28623) highlights several challenges:

* **Limited Public Transit:** The absence of a public bus system significantly hinders **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.
* **Long Drive Times:** The distance to specialized cancer centers necessitates lengthy commutes, potentially impacting treatment schedules and quality of life.
* **Ride-Share Unreliability:** The limited availability of ride-sharing services makes it difficult to rely on them for regular appointments.
* **Weather Dependency:** Road conditions and weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.
* **Need for Planning:** Patients require careful planning and coordination of **transportation** to access necessary care.

For individuals **moving to Ennice** or residing there, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a support network, exploring medical **transportation** options, and understanding insurance coverage are crucial steps.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Ennice, NC (ZIP Code 28623) requires a proactive approach. While the natural beauty of the area is undeniable, the challenges related to **transportation** and **healthcare access**, particularly for breast cancer care, are significant. Individuals should carefully consider these factors when making healthcare decisions and seek resources to overcome the logistical hurdles. The journey to health demands resilience, planning, and a strong support system.