Breast Cancer Score

28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.68 percent of residents in 28697 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.88 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina

Breast Cancer Score 16
People Score 27
Provider Score 32
Hospital Score 22
Travel Score 55

Closest Hospital - WILKES REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 28697 Wilkesboro North Carolina
No Cars 0.65 0.65 2.14
1 Car 17.31 17.31 19.36
2 Cars 38.07 38.07 40.83
3 or More Cars 43.97 43.97 37.67

Vehicular Access in 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina

Travel Score Review of 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilkesboro (ZIP Code 28697)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires accessible, reliable, and stress-free transportation. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 28697 (Wilkesboro, North Carolina), assesses the landscape of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for individuals facing breast cancer treatment. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those moving to Wilkesboro and seeking quality care.

Wilkesboro, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique transportation considerations. While the natural beauty is undeniable, the rural nature of the area influences healthcare access. The availability of diverse transportation options directly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" for this region, reflecting the ease and efficiency with which patients can reach crucial appointments.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option hinges on road conditions and distance. The primary artery through Wilkesboro is US-421, a vital link connecting the town to larger cities like Winston-Salem and Boone. Traveling east on US-421, you’ll find Novant Health Wilkes Medical Center, the primary healthcare provider in the immediate area. Drive times vary depending on traffic, but generally, reaching the hospital is a swift trip.

Other roads, such as NC-18 and NC-16, provide alternative routes, though these tend to be slower due to the winding nature of the terrain and the presence of more stoplights. Residents living further from the town center, particularly those in the more remote areas of the county, may face significantly longer drive times, potentially impacting their ability to adhere to treatment schedules.

For individuals seeking specialized care, the drive to larger medical centers in Winston-Salem (approximately an hour's drive) or Charlotte (closer to two hours) becomes a critical factor. These trips, primarily via US-421 and I-77 or US-421 and I-40, respectively, can be taxing, particularly for patients undergoing treatment and experiencing side effects. The availability of reliable transportation, therefore, becomes paramount.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Wilkesboro are limited. The county does not have a comprehensive bus system. This lack of widespread public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, do not have access to a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to their medical condition.

This scarcity of public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Without reliable public transit, patients are forced to rely on alternative options, which may be less accessible, less affordable, or less convenient. This can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, a poorer quality of life.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Wilkesboro, offering a potential solution for transportation needs. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden for individuals facing the financial strain of cancer treatment.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, provide another avenue for transportation. These services often offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, the availability of medical transport services in Wilkesboro and the surrounding areas needs to be researched.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The combination of limited public transit, the potential for long drives to specialized care, and the variability of ride-sharing services creates a complex landscape for healthcare access in Wilkesboro. This situation directly affects the Breast Cancer Score, reflecting the challenges patients face in reaching their appointments.

For individuals moving to Wilkesboro and considering their healthcare options, it's crucial to factor in these transportation considerations. Those without personal vehicles or relying on public transit may face significant hurdles in accessing timely and consistent care.

**Strategies for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Wilkesboro requires a multifaceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, perhaps through partnerships with existing transportation providers or the implementation of a county-wide shuttle service, would significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score.

Increasing the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, potentially through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers, could also alleviate transportation challenges. Furthermore, promoting medical transport services and ensuring their availability throughout the county would provide a critical lifeline for patients with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis in Wilkesboro, the journey to healthcare is inextricably linked to the availability of reliable transportation. The current landscape presents challenges, but also opportunities for improvement. By understanding the existing transportation options and advocating for expanded services, the community can work towards improving the Breast Cancer Score and ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. This is especially important for those considering moving to Wilkesboro, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the availability of transportation.

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Health Scores Near 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina

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Health Scores in 28697, Wilkesboro, North Carolina