28736, Glenville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28736, Glenville, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.36 percent of residents in 28736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highlands Cashiers Hospital with a distance of 7.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glenville, NC (ZIP Code 28736)

The crisp mountain air of Glenville, North Carolina, offers a picturesque setting, a haven for those seeking respite and a slower pace of life. But the allure of this tranquil community must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examines the transportation infrastructure and available healthcare resources within and around ZIP code 28736, offering insights for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike. It's a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Glenville**, especially those prioritizing proximity to comprehensive medical care.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the critical element of **transportation**. The ability to reach timely medical appointments, including screenings, diagnostic tests, treatments, and follow-up care, is paramount in the fight against breast cancer. Delays in accessing care can significantly impact outcomes, underscoring the importance of understanding the transportation landscape. This report delves into the various options available, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents of Glenville.

Glenville, nestled in Jackson County, is primarily served by personal vehicles. The primary artery connecting the community to larger towns and healthcare facilities is **US-64**. This highway, while scenic, can experience congestion during peak travel times, potentially impacting drive times to medical appointments. Another key road is **NC-107**, which provides access to Sylva and the larger regional medical centers. The winding mountain roads demand careful driving, particularly during inclement weather, adding another layer of complexity to transportation planning.

Drive times to essential healthcare services are a primary concern. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Asheville, approximately 70-80 miles away, or in larger cities like Greenville, South Carolina, which is a longer drive. The drive to Asheville via US-64 can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This distance necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The availability of public transit in Glenville is limited. Jackson County does offer a public transportation service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to specifically cater to medical appointments. The service, known as the Jackson County Transit, may provide limited access to Sylva and other nearby towns, but it is not a viable option for reaching Asheville or other distant medical centers. Its service may not be ADA compliant, and it would be essential to confirm this before relying on it.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Glenville, but their presence is not guaranteed, and their availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are another option. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation, including services for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services can be pre-arranged and provide door-to-door transportation, alleviating some of the stress associated with traveling to medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Glenville, NC, is therefore influenced by several factors. The primary challenge is the distance to comprehensive cancer centers and the reliance on personal vehicles. The limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services add to the complexity. The cost and availability of medical transportation services are also important considerations.

For individuals **moving to Glenville** with a history of breast cancer or at high risk, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. It is crucial to assess the feasibility of driving to medical appointments, considering the potential for fatigue, side effects from treatment, and the impact of weather conditions. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transportation services is also recommended.

Furthermore, it is essential to research the healthcare facilities available in the region. While Glenville itself may not have a dedicated cancer center, the nearby towns of Sylva and Waynesville offer some medical services. The regional medical centers in Asheville and Greenville, SC, provide comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Understanding the specific services offered by each facility and the associated travel times is critical.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Glenville is also influenced by the availability of support services. Support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can play a vital role in helping patients navigate the complexities of breast cancer treatment. These resources can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance in accessing healthcare services.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Glenville, NC (ZIP code 28736) highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration. While the scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Glenville are undeniable, the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** must be carefully weighed by anyone considering **moving to Glenville**. By understanding these factors and exploring available resources, residents can proactively manage their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to essential medical services.