27574, Roxboro, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.94 percent of residents in 27574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.63 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roxboro, NC (ZIP Code 27574)

The specter of prostate cancer looms over men, demanding proactive healthcare. This analysis, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 27574 (Roxboro, NC), assesses the accessibility of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, considering transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding these factors is crucial, especially for individuals considering moving to Roxboro or navigating the healthcare landscape within the community. This “Prostate Cancer Score” provides a roadmap to informed healthcare decisions.

Roxboro, a charming town nestled in Person County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural setting, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation options. This analysis considers these realities, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital prostate cancer care.

**Screening and Early Detection:**

Early detection is paramount in the fight against prostate cancer. Regular screening, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams, is essential for identifying the disease at its most treatable stages. The availability of these services within a reasonable travel distance is a key component of our score.

The closest primary care physicians and urologists offering these services are primarily located within Roxboro itself. However, the concentration of specialists is limited, potentially leading to appointment delays. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Roxboro, as establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is the first step in proactive healthcare.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most Roxboro residents. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US-501, NC-49, and NC-57. Travel times to healthcare facilities can vary significantly depending on traffic, time of day, and the specific location of the provider.

For routine screenings, driving to local clinics and hospitals within Roxboro generally takes under 15 minutes, assuming traffic conditions are favorable. However, specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Durham or Chapel Hill. These trips, primarily via US-501 and I-85, can extend to 45 minutes to an hour or more, significantly impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Roxboro are limited. The Person County Transportation System (PCTS) offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is primarily aimed at seniors and individuals with disabilities.

While PCTS provides ADA-accessible vehicles, the limited service area and scheduling requirements pose challenges for individuals needing regular medical appointments. The lack of fixed-route bus service significantly hinders healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This is a significant factor influencing the “Prostate Cancer Score.”

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Roxboro, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This makes them a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as FirstLight Home Care and several local private providers, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically come with a higher cost, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialists:**

Person Memorial Hospital, located in Roxboro, provides a range of healthcare services, including primary care and some specialist consultations. However, for advanced prostate cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, residents often need to travel to larger medical centers.

Duke University Hospital in Durham and UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill are the primary referral centers for specialized prostate cancer care. These facilities offer comprehensive treatment options, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. Accessing these centers requires longer travel times and careful consideration of transportation logistics.

**The Impact of Moving to Roxboro:**

For individuals considering moving to Roxboro, understanding the transportation challenges is crucial. While the town offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the limited healthcare access necessitates careful planning.

Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician is essential. Proactive screening and early detection are key to managing prostate cancer. Individuals should also research the availability of specialists and treatment options in the surrounding areas, considering travel times and transportation alternatives.

**ADA Accessibility and Healthcare Access:**

ADA compliance is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access. All healthcare facilities must adhere to ADA regulations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the effectiveness of ADA compliance depends on the availability of accessible transportation options.

The limited public transportation options in Roxboro, coupled with the potential reliance on ride-sharing services, can create barriers for individuals with mobility limitations. This highlights the importance of medical transportation services and the need for healthcare providers to offer support and resources to patients with disabilities.

**Prostate Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the “Prostate Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 27574 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While local screening and primary care services are readily available, access to specialized treatment options requires longer travel times and reliance on limited transportation options.

The score is influenced by the following:

* **Proximity to Screening Services:** Good, with local options available.
* **Drive Times to Specialists:** Moderate, with longer travel times for specialized care.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited, posing challenges for individuals without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Inconsistent, making it a less reliable option.
* **Medical Transportation:** Available, but at an added cost.
* **ADA Accessibility:** Healthcare facilities are compliant, but transportation options are limited.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Establish a primary care physician:** This is the first step in proactive healthcare.
* **Schedule regular screenings:** Follow recommended guidelines for PSA testing and digital rectal exams.
* **Research specialist options:** Identify specialists and treatment centers in the surrounding areas.
* **Plan transportation in advance:** Consider all transportation options, including medical transportation services.
* **Advocate for improved transportation:** Support initiatives to expand public transportation options.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating prostate cancer care in Roxboro requires careful planning and proactive engagement. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access must be acknowledged. By understanding the challenges and utilizing available resources, residents of ZIP Code 27574 can improve their chances of early detection, timely treatment, and ultimately, a better quality of life. The “Prostate Cancer Score” serves as a guide, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and prioritize their health.