28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 28668 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alleghany Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.54 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28668 (Roaring Gap, NC)**

The crisp mountain air of Roaring Gap, North Carolina (ZIP code 28668), offers a tranquil escape, a siren song to those seeking a slower pace of life. But alongside the serenity of this community lies a crucial consideration for prospective residents, particularly women: **healthcare access**. This report delves into the realities of **transportation** options available for those needing breast cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the practicalities of navigating the region. This score considers the distances, modes of travel, and accessibility features, illuminating the challenges and opportunities for those facing this critical health concern.

The score is not a definitive judgment but a reflection of the complexities of accessing care in a rural environment. It acknowledges that **healthcare access** is not merely about the presence of facilities but also about the ease with which individuals can reach them. This is especially vital for those undergoing regular appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. This analysis is aimed at individuals **moving to Roaring Gap** or considering it, ensuring they are fully informed about the practicalities of their healthcare journey.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Roaring Gap residents is the personal vehicle. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding the area. Wilkesboro, approximately 25 miles away, is the closest town with a hospital, Wilkes Medical Center. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route primarily utilizes NC-18, a winding two-lane highway that snakes its way through the mountains.

For those seeking more specialized care, Winston-Salem, approximately 70 miles away, offers a wider array of medical services, including comprehensive cancer centers. The drive to Winston-Salem, primarily via US-421, can take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This route involves navigating a combination of rural roads and interstate highways, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

The drive to both Wilkesboro and Winston-Salem can be challenging, especially during inclement weather. Mountain roads are susceptible to ice and snow, potentially making travel hazardous. Residents should be prepared for longer travel times during these conditions and should ensure their vehicles are equipped with appropriate tires and safety features.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public **transportation** options in 28668 are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system that serves the immediate area of Roaring Gap. The primary public transit options are focused on serving the larger towns in the region.

Wilkes County operates a demand-response transit system, Wilkes Transportation Authority (WTA). WTA provides curb-to-curb service to residents of Wilkes County, including residents of Roaring Gap, however, it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The WTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations.

The availability of public transit to Winston-Salem is even more restricted. While there are intercity bus services, such as Greyhound, these services may not be directly accessible from Roaring Gap, requiring a transfer in a larger town. The frequency of these services is limited, and they are not designed to meet the specific needs of patients undergoing cancer treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is less consistent in rural areas like Roaring Gap. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments would be risky.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. They typically offer door-to-door service and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans. Several companies, including MedTrans and FirstLight Home Care, provide medical transport services in the region.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 28668 reflects the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access**. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively long drive times to the nearest medical facilities, particularly for specialized care, are a significant factor.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The lack of reliable public transit options limits accessibility for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share Variability:** The unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services adds another layer of complexity.
* **Medical Transport Costs:** While medical transport services offer a valuable solution, the associated costs and insurance coverage limitations can be a barrier.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and facilities is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities.

**Recommendations for Individuals Moving to Roaring Gap**

For individuals considering **moving to Roaring Gap** or currently residing there, several recommendations are essential:

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Secure a primary care physician in the area to facilitate referrals and coordinate care.
* **Plan for Transportation:** Develop a comprehensive **transportation** plan that considers all available options, including personal vehicles, medical transport services, and ride-sharing.
* **Explore Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for medical transport services and other relevant healthcare expenses.
* **Build a Support Network:** Establish a support network of family, friends, or community members who can assist with **transportation** and other needs.
* **Consider Proximity to Care:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and the accessibility of major roadways.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep abreast of changes in local healthcare services and **transportation** options.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 28668 highlights the realities of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. While the beauty and tranquility of Roaring Gap are undeniable, prospective residents must carefully consider the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing serious health concerns like breast cancer. By understanding the available options, planning proactively, and building a strong support network, individuals can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure they receive the care they need. The journey may require more planning and effort, but the peace of mind of knowing the path is clear is invaluable.