28693, Warrensville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28693, Warrensville, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.63 percent of residents in 28693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.02 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warrensville, NC (ZIP Code 28693)

Imagine the peace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the crisp air, and the quiet beauty of Warrensville, North Carolina. Nestled in Ashe County, this community offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. But when facing a health concern like breast cancer, the tranquility can be shattered by the realities of healthcare access. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, delves into the practicalities of transportation and healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 28693, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. This information is critical for anyone considering moving to Warrensville or for current residents needing to understand their options.

The cornerstone of this analysis is **transportation**, the critical link between a patient and the necessary medical care. The rugged terrain and limited public infrastructure in Warrensville present significant hurdles. Driving is the primary mode of transportation, and the distance to specialized breast cancer care centers is a major factor.

The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Boone and Winston-Salem. The drive to Boone, the county seat, involves navigating winding mountain roads. From Warrensville, the most direct route typically involves taking **NC-194 South** towards Jefferson, then merging onto **US-221 South**. The drive to Watauga Medical Center in Boone, a hospital that offers some cancer services, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey, while manageable, can be taxing for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing fatigue.

For more specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and advanced clinical trials, patients often need to travel further. The journey to Winston-Salem, home to major medical centers like Wake Forest Baptist Health, is significantly longer. This trip involves a combination of **US-221 South** to **US-421 South**. The drive time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, a considerable commitment, especially for frequent appointments.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this rural area. There are no fixed-route bus services directly connecting Warrensville to Boone or Winston-Salem. This lack of **public transportation** severely restricts **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their health condition. The absence of readily available public transit is a significant disadvantage for those with mobility issues or those who cannot afford the costs of private transportation.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is also limited in Warrensville and the surrounding areas. While these services may be available, they may be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing for long-distance trips to Winston-Salem can be prohibitive for many patients.

Medical transportation services offer a potential solution for those unable to drive or utilize ride-sharing. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, but availability and cost can vary. These services typically require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent appointments. The availability of these services is crucial, but the need for planning and potential cost can be a barrier.

For those considering **moving to Warrensville**, the availability of reliable **transportation** to healthcare facilities should be a primary consideration. The Breast Cancer Score for Warrensville is therefore affected by the lack of public transport, the limited ride-sharing options, and the reliance on private vehicles for long-distance travel. The challenges are amplified for those without personal vehicles or those facing physical limitations.

The Breast Cancer Score is further impacted by the availability of support services within the community. Local resources, such as support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators, can significantly improve the patient experience. However, in a rural area like Warrensville, these resources may be limited or require travel to neighboring towns.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of preventative care and early detection services. Access to mammograms and other screening procedures is essential for early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes. The proximity to a facility offering these services, such as Watauga Medical Center in Boone, is a positive factor, but the travel time remains a consideration.

The score also assesses the availability of financial assistance programs to help patients cover the costs of treatment and transportation. Cancer treatment can be financially devastating, and access to financial resources is crucial for ensuring that patients can afford the care they need. Information on programs offered by the American Cancer Society, the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and local organizations is crucial.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Warrensville, NC (ZIP Code 28693) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. The reliance on private **transportation**, the limited **public transportation** options, and the potential for long travel times to specialized care centers are significant considerations. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the realities of navigating breast cancer treatment require careful planning and consideration of the available resources. Individuals considering **moving to Warrensville** or those already residing there must proactively assess their **transportation** options, explore available support services, and understand the financial implications of treatment. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that while the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains is undeniable, the practicalities of healthcare access are a critical factor in ensuring the well-being of the community. The journey to healthcare is often a long one, and in Warrensville, it requires careful planning and a resilient spirit.