28719, Cherokee, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.20 percent of residents in 28719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority with a distance of 0.61 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28719**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not just about the medical expertise available, but also about the practicalities of accessing it. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access in ZIP code 28719, a region in Cherokee County, North Carolina, to assess the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer care. For individuals considering moving to Cherokee, this analysis provides critical insights into navigating the healthcare system.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a formal medical assessment, but rather a qualitative evaluation of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all crucial factors in determining the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical appointments.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 28719 is Cherokee Indian Hospital, a facility that offers a range of services, including oncology. However, access to specialized care, such as advanced imaging or radiation therapy, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Asheville or other regional locations. This is where transportation becomes paramount.

**Roadways and Drive Times**

For those with personal vehicles, the primary artery connecting 28719 to the outside world is US-19. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, particularly during peak travel times or tourist seasons. Driving to Asheville, the nearest city with comprehensive cancer care facilities, involves a drive of approximately 60-75 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey typically utilizes US-19 North to I-26 East, a route that offers relatively direct access to Asheville's hospitals and cancer centers.

Smaller, local roads like Acquoni Road and Tsali Boulevard provide access within the ZIP code and connect to US-19. These roads are often winding and can be affected by weather conditions, potentially adding to travel times. For those needing to access healthcare in Bryson City, a shorter drive is possible via US-19 South, typically taking around 20-30 minutes.

The time spent driving to and from appointments can significantly impact a patient's well-being. Fatigue, side effects from treatment, and the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis can make long drives particularly challenging. Careful consideration of these factors is essential when evaluating healthcare access.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in 28719 are limited. The Cherokee County Transit System provides some services, but its routes and schedules may not adequately address the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments. Service frequency and route coverage are crucial considerations.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a vital aspect of public transportation, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access healthcare. However, the extent of ADA-compliant services within the Cherokee County Transit System needs to be thoroughly assessed to determine its effectiveness in serving the needs of breast cancer patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Asheville area, but their presence in 28719 is less consistent. Availability may be limited, and surge pricing during peak demand could pose a financial burden for patients. Reliability and cost are critical factors when considering ride-sharing as a transportation option.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options.

The availability and cost of medical transport services in 28719 should be carefully evaluated. Insurance coverage for these services varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be significant. Researching the specific companies that serve the area, understanding their pricing structures, and determining insurance coverage are essential steps.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide:** A regional provider.
* **First Medical Transport:** Focuses on non-emergency medical transport.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Operates in the broader region, but availability in 28719 should be confirmed.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 28719 reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity of Cherokee Indian Hospital offers some local healthcare access, the need for specialized cancer care often necessitates travel to Asheville or other regional centers. The limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport pose significant challenges.

However, there are also opportunities to improve healthcare access. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly routes that connect 28719 to Asheville and other medical hubs, would be beneficial. Expanding the availability of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with local organizations to subsidize transportation costs for cancer patients could also make a difference.

For individuals considering moving to Cherokee, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport is essential for making an informed decision.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 28719 highlights the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare. While the region offers some local healthcare services, the need for specialized cancer care often necessitates travel. The limited transportation options pose challenges for patients. Improving public transit, increasing ride-sharing availability, and exploring affordable medical transport solutions are crucial steps to ensure that residents of 28719 have equitable access to the care they need. For those contemplating a move to Cherokee, a careful evaluation of these transportation factors is essential for making an informed decision about their healthcare needs.