27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.59 percent of residents in 27974 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shiloh, NC (ZIP Code 27974)

The quiet charm of Shiloh, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27974), nestled in the northeastern corner of the state, offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, the tranquility of this rural community necessitates a thorough examination of its healthcare access, particularly concerning prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. This write-up assesses the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Shiloh residents, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Shiloh**, understanding these factors is crucial.

The Prostate Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a numerical metric but a qualitative assessment of the ease with which a resident can access timely and appropriate prostate cancer-related medical services. This encompasses everything from initial screening to specialized treatments like radiation therapy or surgery. The score is influenced by the availability of medical facilities, the efficiency of **transportation** networks, and the presence of support services.

Shiloh's relative isolation presents a unique set of challenges. The nearest major medical centers are in Elizabeth City, roughly 20 miles to the east, and in Suffolk, Virginia, about 40 miles to the north. These distances, while seemingly manageable, can become significant barriers, especially for individuals experiencing mobility limitations or those requiring frequent appointments.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary thoroughfare serving Shiloh is US-158, a two-lane highway that connects the community to Elizabeth City and the Outer Banks. Driving to Elizabeth City, the most accessible hub for medical care, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route, while generally straightforward, can be subject to delays during peak hours or due to accidents.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Suffolk, Virginia. This journey involves navigating US-17 North, a major artery connecting the region. Drive times to Suffolk can range from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the city. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for those undergoing treatment requiring regular appointments.

Smaller roads, such as NC-343, provide alternative routes, but they often involve winding country lanes and may not be suitable for all vehicles or individuals with mobility issues. These roads can also add significant time to a journey.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public **transportation** options in Shiloh and the surrounding area are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. There are no fixed-route buses or dedicated medical transport services operating directly within the ZIP code.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation** providers. This limitation disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of accessibility is a major factor impacting the Prostate Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Elizabeth City area. However, their availability in Shiloh itself may be inconsistent, and wait times could be significant. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services are available, but their coverage and cost vary. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedRide and Firstat Nursing Services offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, but their availability and pricing must be carefully considered. Booking in advance is often required, and the cost can be substantial, particularly for longer distances. These services often have ADA-compliant vehicles, but availability can be limited.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

The accessibility of healthcare facilities is a critical component of the Prostate Cancer Score. While Shiloh itself may not have specialized cancer treatment centers, Elizabeth City offers a range of medical services, including primary care physicians, urologists, and diagnostic imaging facilities. The Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City provides a comprehensive range of services.

For more advanced treatments, such as radiation therapy or specialized surgical procedures, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Norfolk or Richmond, Virginia, further increasing travel times and logistical complexities.

**Impact on the Prostate Cancer Score:**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Shiloh residents is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long drive times, and the scarcity of public transit create barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care. The lack of readily available ride-sharing and the cost of medical **transportation** services further exacerbate these challenges.

The score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers and the need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized treatments. While Elizabeth City offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, the need to travel to more distant locations for advanced care adds to the complexity and cost of treatment.

**Recommendations:**

Improving the Prostate Cancer Score for Shiloh residents requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public **transportation** options, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve **healthcare access**. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services and remote monitoring programs could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Providing educational resources and support groups within the community can empower residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

For those **moving to Shiloh**, a thorough understanding of these **transportation** and healthcare access challenges is essential. Researching healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage, and planning for **transportation** needs are critical steps in ensuring timely and effective prostate cancer care. The Prostate Cancer Score in Shiloh, while not ideal, can be improved with proactive planning, community support, and strategic policy initiatives.