28652, Minneapolis, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28652, Minneapolis, North Carolina is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 28652 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Charles A Cannon Jr Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.05 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28652**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It encompasses not just the medical expertise available, but also the logistical challenges of accessing it. In ZIP code 28652, nestled within the foothills of North Carolina, understanding the transportation landscape is critical to assessing healthcare access. This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score,” a composite view of the transportation infrastructure and its impact on timely and convenient medical care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering a move, perhaps even to a larger city like Minneapolis.

The foundation of this score begins with assessing drive times. For residents of 28652, the primary route to major healthcare providers often involves navigating the winding roads and highways that characterize the region. The most direct route to larger hospitals and cancer centers in nearby cities like Hickory or Morganton typically involves traveling on US-321. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the destination, drive times can vary significantly. A drive to Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory, for example, could range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the starting point.

Another key route is I-40, providing access to larger medical centers in Winston-Salem or Charlotte. However, this interstate can be subject to heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. The drive to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem could take upwards of an hour, while the journey to Atrium Health's Levine Cancer Institute in Charlotte might stretch to an hour and a half or more. These longer drive times are a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score, as they can impact the ability to attend appointments, receive timely treatment, and manage the physical and emotional toll of cancer care.

Public transportation options in 28652 are limited. The primary provider is the Foothills Area Transit System (FATS), which operates a demand-response service. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, which can pose a challenge for those needing immediate medical attention or frequent appointments. While FATS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, the availability and scheduling constraints can limit its utility for breast cancer patients. The lack of fixed-route bus services, which are common in larger metropolitan areas, further restricts access to healthcare facilities. The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant negative factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 28652, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients, especially those with limited financial resources. The fluctuating availability and potential expense of ride-sharing contribute to a lower score.

Specialized medical transportation services are another crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score. Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare, which contract with Medicaid and other insurance providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. However, eligibility requirements, scheduling procedures, and the potential for delays can impact their effectiveness. The availability and efficiency of these specialized services are considered in the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Cancer patients often require access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and other specialized treatments. The proximity of these services to the patient's home is crucial. The score assesses the distance to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, the types of treatments offered, and the waiting times for appointments. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources is also factored in.

The physical and emotional toll of breast cancer treatment can be immense. The ability to easily access healthcare services is therefore essential. The Breast Cancer Score takes into account the impact of transportation challenges on patient well-being. Longer drive times, limited public transit options, and the potential for transportation-related stress can exacerbate the physical and emotional burden of cancer care. The score considers the potential for transportation barriers to negatively affect treatment adherence, appointment attendance, and overall quality of life.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by breast cancer patients in 28652. It provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The score serves as a tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better transportation solutions.

For those considering a move to 28652, the Breast Cancer Score provides valuable information for making informed decisions. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully considered. The score highlights the need for careful planning and the potential for relying on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.

The Breast Cancer Score for 28652 is a dynamic measure that can change over time. As transportation infrastructure evolves, the score will be updated to reflect those changes. The goal is to provide an accurate and up-to-date assessment of healthcare access, empowering residents and those considering a move to navigate the complexities of breast cancer care with greater confidence. The score also serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all individuals have equal access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their location. It also highlights the differences between the healthcare access in a rural area like 28652 compared to a larger city like Minneapolis, which often has more robust public transportation and healthcare options.