28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.61 percent of residents in 28337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 1.78 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethtown (ZIP Code 28337)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a condition like prostate cancer, is more than a medical appointment; it's a logistical undertaking. In Elizabethtown, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28337), the accessibility of vital services like oncology, urology, and radiation therapy significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. This write-up provides a “Prostate Cancer Score” assessment, considering the multifaceted landscape of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** within and around this community. This information is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Elizabethtown** or seeking a deeper understanding of the local healthcare infrastructure.

Elizabethtown, a charming town in Bladen County, offers a slower pace of life, but its rural setting presents unique challenges in accessing specialized medical care. The “Prostate Cancer Score” considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to navigate the healthcare system effectively, ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving treatments.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Elizabethtown are US Highway 701 and US Highway 74/76. These routes connect the town to larger medical centers and specialist practices. The drive time to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a regional hub for cancer care, is approximately 45-60 minutes via US-74/76 East and I-95 North. This journey, while manageable, requires careful planning, especially for frequent appointments like radiation therapy.

Traveling south on US-701 offers access to smaller medical facilities in nearby towns like Whiteville, but these typically lack the comprehensive oncology services found in Fayetteville. The drive to Wilmington, a coastal city with advanced medical centers, is about 1 hour and 15 minutes via US-74/76 East. This option offers a broader range of specialists and treatment options, but the longer travel time necessitates careful consideration of patient stamina and comfort.

Local roads like NC-210 and NC-87 provide access to surrounding communities and healthcare providers, but they are often less direct and may involve slower travel times due to traffic and rural road conditions. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact accessibility.

**Public Transit:**

Public **transportation** options in Elizabethtown are limited. Bladen County operates a public transit system, but it primarily focuses on providing transportation for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. Service is demand-response, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. While this service offers some degree of **healthcare access**, it may not be ideal for urgent appointments or individuals requiring frequent visits.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The Bladen County transit system does offer this service, but availability and scheduling can be constraints. Potential riders should contact the transit provider directly to inquire about specific routes, scheduling procedures, and ADA-compliant features. The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods for **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are present in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments is not always feasible. The cost of these services can also accumulate, becoming a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized assistance for patients who cannot drive themselves. These services often include door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and communication with medical providers. However, these services come at a cost and require advance booking.

Angel Ride, a non-profit organization, may provide free or reduced-cost transportation for cancer patients, offering a vital lifeline for those facing financial constraints. Investigating these types of resources is crucial for patients seeking affordable **healthcare access**.

**Prostate Cancer Score Considerations:**

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for Elizabethtown reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing prostate cancer care. Factors like drive times to major medical centers, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services all contribute to the overall score.

The score should also consider the proximity of local primary care physicians and their ability to provide initial screenings and referrals. The availability of support groups and counseling services in the area also plays a crucial role in the patient's overall well-being.

**Moving to Elizabethtown** and navigating the healthcare landscape requires careful planning. Prospective residents should research the availability of specialists, the ease of **transportation**, and the cost of care. The “Prostate Cancer Score” serves as a starting point for this evaluation, highlighting the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness.

**Conclusion:**

Elizabethtown offers a tranquil environment, but its rural setting presents challenges for **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with prostate cancer. While drive times to major medical centers are manageable, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 28337 underscores the importance of planning for **transportation**, exploring all available resources, and proactively engaging with the healthcare system. Individuals **moving to Elizabethtown** or seeking prostate cancer care should prioritize understanding the local **transportation** landscape and the available support systems to ensure timely access to essential medical services. This proactive approach will contribute significantly to a patient's quality of life and the effectiveness of their treatment journey.