28307, Fort Bragg, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28307, Fort Bragg, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.24 percent of residents in 28307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Womack Amc (Ft Bragg) with a distance of 0.60 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28307

The journey to healthcare, especially for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 28307, encompassing a significant portion of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and providing a prostate cancer score based on transportation options and healthcare access. Understanding these factors is critical for residents and those considering moving to Fort Bragg, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and effective care.

The prostate cancer score isn’t a single number but a composite view. It considers the availability and accessibility of urologists, oncologists, radiation therapy centers, and support services, coupled with the practicalities of getting there. Transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access, plays a central role in this assessment.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in 28307. The area is served by major thoroughfares, including Interstate 95 (I-95), a crucial north-south artery. Access to I-95 is generally good, with several on-ramps and off-ramps facilitating travel. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times to medical facilities. The journey to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, might take 15 minutes on a good day via US-401 (Raeford Road) but can stretch to 30 minutes or more during rush hour.

Other key roads include US-401 (Raeford Road), a major commercial corridor, and US-13 (Bragg Boulevard), which serves the Fort Bragg area. These roads are often congested, and the condition of the roads themselves can be a factor. Potholes, construction, and accidents can all add to the travel time and stress, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects. The distance to medical appointments, coupled with potential delays, can exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of prostate cancer.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its impact on the prostate cancer score is more nuanced. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus services throughout the city. Several routes, including Route 1 (Raeford Road), Route 7 (Murchison Road), and Route 11 (Skibo Road), offer connections to medical facilities. However, the frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

The accessibility of FAST buses for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical factor. All FAST buses are ADA-compliant, featuring ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time, including waiting periods, can still present challenges. The time commitment for a bus trip to a medical appointment can be significantly longer than a car journey, potentially impacting a patient’s energy levels and ability to adhere to treatment schedules.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 28307, providing another transportation option. These services offer convenience, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited incomes or facing frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare, which contract with insurance providers, may be available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles. However, eligibility for these services varies depending on insurance coverage and individual circumstances. Availability can also be limited, and advance booking is often required.

The location of medical facilities within 28307 and the surrounding areas significantly impacts the prostate cancer score. The concentration of specialists, including urologists and oncologists, is a crucial factor. Proximity to radiation therapy centers and support services, such as support groups and counseling, is equally important. The distance a patient must travel for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care directly influences the overall burden of the disease.

Healthcare access is not just about physical proximity. It also encompasses the ability to navigate the healthcare system, understand medical information, and communicate effectively with healthcare providers. Language barriers, lack of health literacy, and limited access to interpreters can all create obstacles. The availability of patient navigators and other support staff who can assist patients in coordinating care is a positive factor.

The prostate cancer score also considers the availability of preventative care and screening services. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes. The accessibility of primary care physicians who can provide prostate cancer screenings and referrals is a critical component of the score. The availability of educational resources about prostate cancer and the importance of screening is also essential.

Moving to Fort Bragg presents unique considerations. Many military families reside in 28307, and access to healthcare services through the Department of Defense (DoD) is a significant factor. The availability of specialists and treatment options at Womack Army Medical Center is a crucial consideration. However, the healthcare system at Fort Bragg can be subject to long wait times and limited appointment availability, particularly for non-urgent care. The ability to access civilian healthcare providers, either through Tricare or other insurance plans, is a vital aspect of healthcare access.

The overall prostate cancer score for 28307 is a mixed bag. While the area offers a range of transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, the accessibility and affordability of these options vary. The availability of medical specialists and treatment facilities is generally good, but the travel times, traffic congestion, and potential for delays can be significant. The public transportation system, while ADA-compliant, has limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be costly.

The score is also influenced by factors beyond transportation. The availability of support services, the ability to navigate the healthcare system, and the access to preventative care all contribute to the overall assessment. Residents and those considering moving to Fort Bragg should carefully evaluate these factors when assessing their healthcare options. Proactive planning, including understanding transportation options, identifying medical providers, and accessing support services, can significantly improve the experience for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer in 28307. The ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively is crucial for receiving timely and appropriate care.