27013, Cleveland, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27013, Cleveland, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.57 percent of residents in 27013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.62 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 27013**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, is a complex undertaking. In ZIP Code 27013, nestled in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, the accessibility of care is influenced by a confluence of factors. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, healthcare access points, and potential challenges for individuals facing prostate cancer, providing a “Prostate Cancer Score” based on the available resources.

The geographical layout of 27013, a predominantly rural area, dictates the primary mode of transportation: personal vehicles. The reliance on cars significantly impacts the commute to healthcare facilities. The primary artery for movement is Interstate 77, which provides a direct route to Winston-Salem, a major healthcare hub. The drive time to the Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment facility, averages around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Other key roadways include US-421, which offers an alternative route, albeit with potentially longer travel times due to increased traffic and more frequent stoplights. State Route 67 also provides access, but it is a smaller road that may be less well-maintained and can add to the commute time. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact accessibility.

Public transportation options are limited in 27013. The availability of bus services is sparse, with infrequent routes that may not directly serve healthcare facilities. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) operates within Winston-Salem, but its reach into the surrounding rural areas is minimal. This lack of comprehensive public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The WSTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, but their usefulness depends on the availability of routes that align with healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden, especially for frequent appointments like those required for prostate cancer treatment. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in rural areas may be limited, potentially leading to delays or cancellations. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. Companies like MedTrans and FirstLight Home Care offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

Healthcare access in 27013 is primarily concentrated in Winston-Salem. The proximity of Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center provides comprehensive cancer treatment options. These facilities offer advanced diagnostic tools, surgical procedures, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The availability of specialized oncologists, urologists, and support staff is a crucial factor in determining the quality of care.

The distance to these facilities, coupled with the transportation challenges, can create significant stress for patients and their families. The emotional and physical toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis is compounded by the logistical hurdles of accessing care. Support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for 27013 is influenced by the following factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation services. The drive times to major healthcare facilities, the quality of roads, and the availability of specialized cancer care are all critical elements. The lack of comprehensive public transportation and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing services are significant drawbacks.

Considering these factors, the “Prostate Cancer Score” for 27013 is moderate. While the proximity to Winston-Salem provides access to high-quality cancer treatment, the transportation challenges can significantly impede healthcare access. Individuals in 27013 considering moving to Cleveland, Ohio, might find improved healthcare access, especially if public transportation is a priority. Cleveland offers a more robust public transit system and a concentration of major medical centers.

To improve the score, several measures could be implemented. Expanding public transportation routes to better serve healthcare facilities would be beneficial. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could alleviate the financial burden. Increasing the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would be a valuable asset. Promoting awareness of support groups and patient navigation services could also help patients navigate the complexities of their care.

The journey through prostate cancer is a challenging one. The transportation and healthcare access landscape in 27013 presents both opportunities and obstacles. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their care and advocate for improvements in their community. The availability of quality healthcare is critical, but the ability to access that care is equally important. The “Prostate Cancer Score” is a dynamic assessment, and ongoing efforts to improve transportation and healthcare access are essential for the well-being of residents in 27013.