27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.05 percent of residents in 27009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lifebrite Community Hospital Of Stokes with a distance of 13.34 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Belews Creek (ZIP Code 27009)

The tranquility of Belews Creek, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27009), offers a compelling allure for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals over 50 or with a family history of prostate cancer, evaluating healthcare access becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the "Prostate Cancer Score" for 27009, focusing on transportation options to access urological care, a critical factor in early detection and treatment. We will explore the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, all vital components of healthcare access.

For residents of Belews Creek, the primary route to healthcare centers, including those specializing in urology, is by car. The most direct path to Winston-Salem, where many specialist practices are located, involves using **Highway 150** east, which seamlessly connects to **Highway 52** south. This route offers a relatively straightforward commute, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Another option involves taking **Highway 65** to **Highway 52**, which is also a viable route, albeit potentially slightly longer.

The drive-time to Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, a major healthcare provider in Winston-Salem, is generally within the 40-minute range. This is the most likely destination for specialized urological care. The drive to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, another major healthcare hub, might take slightly longer, depending on traffic and the specific location of the appointment. Considering the importance of timely access to care, especially for prostate cancer screenings and treatments, these drive times need to be factored into the overall "Prostate Cancer Score."

Public transportation options in 27009 are limited. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) does not currently extend its routes into Belews Creek. This means that individuals relying on public transit face significant challenges in accessing healthcare appointments. This lack of accessible public transit severely impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score" for residents without personal vehicles.

The WSTA does, however, provide bus routes within Winston-Salem. If a resident could get to Winston-Salem, routes like **Route 11** (Salem Parkway) and **Route 12** (Reynolda Road) could potentially be used to access medical facilities. However, the initial hurdle of reaching Winston-Salem remains a significant obstacle. Furthermore, it is critical to ascertain if the bus routes are ADA-accessible, offering features such as ramps or lifts, and designated seating, to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, who may be particularly vulnerable.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Winston-Salem area and could be an option for residents of Belews Creek. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments like those required for prostate cancer treatment. The availability of drivers in the more rural area of Belews Creek might also be less consistent than in the city center. This is a crucial consideration for the "Prostate Cancer Score" as it affects the reliability and affordability of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, represent another avenue to explore. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, these services often require pre-booking and can also incur costs that need to be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

When assessing the "Prostate Cancer Score," the availability and accessibility of these medical transportation services are vital. Their reliability, cost, and the ease of booking are all important elements.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 27009 is significantly influenced by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles is a major factor. While drive times to Winston-Salem are manageable, the lack of public transit and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services pose challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Belews Creek, especially those with a family history of prostate cancer or those over 50, it is essential to carefully assess their transportation needs and financial resources. The ability to drive or the availability of a reliable driver is crucial. Exploring the costs and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is also a necessary step.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it represents a complex interplay of factors that impact healthcare access. It highlights the importance of considering transportation infrastructure and available services when evaluating a location for its suitability for healthcare needs. The score would be significantly improved by increased public transit options, subsidized ride-sharing programs, or expanded medical transportation services.

Moving to Belews Creek offers many benefits, but careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly transportation, is crucial for ensuring timely screenings, diagnosis, and treatment for prostate cancer. This comprehensive evaluation of transportation options provides a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing urological care, ultimately influencing the overall quality of life for residents.