28702, Almond, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28702, Almond, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.68 percent of residents in 28702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dlp Swain County Hospital Llc with a distance of 8.88 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28702

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not only the medical expertise available but also the crucial element of **transportation**. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28702 (Almond, North Carolina), delves into the practicalities of reaching essential services, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information is vital for residents and those considering **moving to Almond**, as it directly impacts **healthcare access**.

Almond, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The mountainous terrain and rural setting influence the availability and practicality of various **transportation** methods. Understanding these nuances is critical for anyone navigating the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care associated with breast cancer.

Drive times are a primary consideration. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Asheville, approximately 60 miles east of Almond. This journey typically involves navigating the scenic but winding roads of US-19, which then merges with US-74 East/Great Smoky Mountains Expressway. The drive, without traffic, can take between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the specific destination within Asheville. Traffic, particularly during peak hours or tourist season, can significantly extend this time.

For those requiring radiation therapy, which often involves daily appointments over several weeks, the drive time becomes a significant burden. The cumulative time spent traveling, coupled with the physical and emotional toll of treatment, can profoundly impact a patient's well-being. Similarly, follow-up appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and consultations with specialists necessitate repeated journeys, underscoring the importance of reliable and efficient **transportation**.

Public transit options are limited in this rural area. The Western Carolina Regional Airport (AVL) is located in Asheville, with limited routes and schedules. The local transit authority, the Smoky Mountain Transportation Authority (SMTA), offers bus services within Swain County, but these routes are primarily designed for local errands and are not geared towards frequent trips to Asheville for specialized medical care. The routes are infrequent, and the schedule is not designed for the needs of cancer patients. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is limited, posing a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations, a common side effect of cancer treatment.

The lack of robust public transit highlights the reliance on personal vehicles. For those without a car, or for whom driving is difficult due to treatment side effects or physical limitations, the options become even more constrained. This underscores the critical role of alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Asheville area, but their presence in Almond is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for the long distance to Asheville, can also be a significant financial burden. This financial strain can be a major barrier to accessing necessary care, adding to the stress already associated with a cancer diagnosis.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized option. Companies like Care Ride and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and often involve higher costs than ride-sharing. However, they offer a reliable option for patients who need assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive. The availability of these services in Almond and their coverage area is crucial information.

The Breast Cancer Score for 28702 is therefore a complex calculation, weighing the accessibility of healthcare facilities against the practical challenges of **transportation**. The score would consider the following factors: the distance to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, the average drive time, the availability and frequency of public transit, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical **transportation** providers.

The score would also factor in the availability of support services, such as patient navigators who can assist with coordinating appointments and arranging **transportation**. These navigators can be invaluable in helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and overcome **transportation** barriers.

For individuals considering **moving to Almond**, this Breast Cancer Score provides a crucial piece of the puzzle. It highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs. It emphasizes the importance of having a reliable **transportation** plan in place before relocating, and it underscores the value of exploring all available options, from personal vehicles to medical **transportation** services.

The ideal scenario would involve a combination of solutions. This might include utilizing a personal vehicle for some appointments, relying on ride-sharing for others, and using medical **transportation** for more complex or physically demanding treatments. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and local volunteer driver programs, can also significantly improve **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for 28702 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, the need for creative solutions, and the critical role of **transportation** in ensuring that individuals diagnosed with breast cancer can receive the care they need. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in navigating the journey to healing in the beautiful, yet geographically challenging, landscape of Almond, North Carolina.