28304, Fayetteville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28304, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.40 percent of residents in 28304 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 2.60 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fayetteville's 28304

Considering a move to Fayetteville, North Carolina, and specifically ZIP code 28304? This area, encompassing a significant portion of the city, offers a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods and lifestyles. However, before settling in, it's crucial to understand the realities of healthcare access, particularly for a critical health concern like prostate cancer. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing necessary medical services.

The score isn't a definitive medical prognosis, but rather a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape within the 28304 ZIP code. It considers the ease of reaching specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities, all vital for timely diagnosis and management of prostate cancer. This is especially important when considering the challenges of transportation and how they might impact your healthcare journey.

The primary arteries for transportation in 28304 are, of course, Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 401. I-95 provides a crucial north-south corridor, while US 401, also known as Bragg Boulevard, runs east-west. These highways and roads are the lifelines for accessing medical facilities within and outside the ZIP code. The efficiency of these routes, however, is subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The drive times to key healthcare providers within the 28304 ZIP code vary depending on location and traffic. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major healthcare hub, is accessible via multiple routes. From the western portions of 28304, expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes via US 401 or Murchison Road. From the eastern sections, the journey may be slightly longer, potentially 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic flow on Bragg Boulevard.

Specialist clinics, such as urology practices specializing in prostate cancer care, are often clustered around Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. Drive times to these clinics mirror those to the hospital itself. Diagnostic centers for imaging, such as MRI and CT scans, are also concentrated in this area, meaning similar travel times apply.

Outside of the immediate 28304 area, access to other healthcare options is available. Driving to larger medical facilities, such as the Womack Army Medical Center on Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), may take 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific entry point. This highlights the importance of understanding potential delays when planning appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City**

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides public transportation options within the city. The FAST system offers several bus routes that serve the 28304 area. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage can be limited, especially in certain neighborhoods.

Route 1, for example, typically runs along US 401, providing a connection to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. Other routes, such as Route 7 and Route 12, offer service to areas within the ZIP code. However, the effectiveness of public transit for accessing healthcare depends on the proximity of bus stops to your home and the medical facility, as well as the frequency of service.

FAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to ensure accessibility for all riders. However, the overall travel time using public transit can be significantly longer than driving, due to route deviations and waiting times. Careful planning is essential when relying on FAST for medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Fayetteville, including the 28304 ZIP code. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive safely.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, are also available. These services are often designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, providing assistance with mobility and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 28304 considers the accessibility of healthcare resources, factoring in transportation options and potential challenges. The score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the following factors:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** The concentration of medical facilities, including Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and specialist clinics, within the 28304 area is a positive factor.
* **Transportation Options:** The availability of multiple transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, increases the overall accessibility of healthcare.
* **Traffic Congestion:** The potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours on major roads like US 401 and I-95, can impact drive times and should be considered.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The limitations of public transit, including route frequency and coverage, may pose challenges for some residents.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The cost of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services, can impact access to care.

**Moving to Fayetteville: Healthcare Access Considerations**

For individuals considering a move to Fayetteville, particularly those with a history of prostate cancer or at risk of developing the disease, the 28304 ZIP code offers a mixed bag. The presence of major medical facilities and specialist clinics within the area is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning.

Before making a move, it's crucial to assess your individual transportation needs and preferences. Consider the proximity of your chosen residence to medical facilities, the availability of public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Furthermore, research the specific healthcare providers in the area, including their expertise in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Contact these providers to inquire about appointment availability, insurance coverage, and any specific transportation assistance they may offer.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether the 28304 ZIP code is the right fit for your healthcare needs. This assessment provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Fayetteville, helping you navigate the transportation landscape and ensuring timely access to the care you deserve. The ultimate goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your health and well-being, ensuring that the journey to healthcare is as smooth and stress-free as possible.