28372, Pembroke, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28372, Pembroke, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.99 percent of residents in 28372 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.29 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pembroke, NC (ZIP Code 28372)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is a complex undertaking. It involves more than just the medical expertise; it's intertwined with the accessibility of transportation, the availability of specialized facilities, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare landscape. This write-up provides a comprehensive analysis of healthcare access for prostate cancer patients residing in Pembroke, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28372), focusing on transportation options and their impact on the patient experience. For those considering moving to Pembroke, understanding these factors is crucial.

Pembroke, a town nestled in Robeson County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The area's rural nature influences transportation choices, with a reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transit. This directly affects the prostate cancer patient's ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive necessary follow-up care.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The primary mode of transportation in Pembroke is the personal vehicle. Patients typically rely on their cars to reach medical facilities. The drive times to key healthcare providers are critical.

The closest significant medical center is Southeastern Health, located in Lumberton, approximately 15 miles from Pembroke. The primary route is via US-74, a major highway connecting the region. The drive time under normal traffic conditions is about 20-30 minutes. However, traffic can become congested during peak hours, especially around Lumberton, extending the commute.

For specialized care, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Fayetteville or Durham. Fayetteville, about 45 miles away, can be reached via I-95 North or US-74 East, offering a drive time of roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Durham, home to Duke University Hospital and other renowned medical institutions, is approximately 120 miles away. The journey involves traveling on I-95 North, then transitioning to I-40 West, and typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.

These drive times highlight the importance of reliable transportation for prostate cancer patients. Regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring can place a significant burden on individuals without access to a vehicle or those facing mobility challenges.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Pembroke and Robeson County is limited. The primary provider is the Robeson County Area Transportation System (RCATS). RCATS offers fixed-route and demand-response services, but the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The fixed-route services are limited in scope and may not be suitable for frequent medical appointments. The demand-response service, which requires advance booking, offers door-to-door transportation. However, it may have limited operating hours and may not be able to accommodate the specific needs of prostate cancer patients, such as appointments requiring early morning or late afternoon travel.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. RCATS is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services. This includes vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts and trained drivers to assist passengers with mobility challenges. However, the limited availability and scheduling constraints of the demand-response service can still pose challenges for those with physical limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pembroke area, but their availability may be inconsistent. The frequency of service and the wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Patients may experience difficulties securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or when traveling to and from medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with transportation. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and LogistiCare. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. They can be a valuable option for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The transportation challenges in Pembroke directly affect healthcare access for prostate cancer patients. The drive times to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to care.

Patients may face difficulties attending appointments, undergoing treatments, and receiving necessary follow-up care. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring, potentially impacting the patient's prognosis and quality of life.

For individuals considering moving to Pembroke, the transportation landscape must be carefully evaluated. The availability of a reliable vehicle, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the availability of alternative transportation options are essential factors to consider.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

To improve healthcare access for prostate cancer patients in Pembroke, several strategies can be implemented.

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of RCATS routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities. Consider establishing dedicated routes for medical appointments.
* **Expand Ride-Share Availability:** Encourage ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area. Explore partnerships with local organizations to facilitate transportation for patients.
* **Promote Medical Transportation Services:** Increase awareness of medical transportation services and their availability. Provide financial assistance or subsidies to patients who need these services.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up consultations and monitoring.
* **Community Education:** Educate the community about prostate cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options. This can empower patients to take proactive steps in their healthcare journey.

**Conclusion:**

The transportation landscape in Pembroke presents challenges for prostate cancer patients. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access. However, by implementing strategies to improve transportation options, promote telehealth services, and educate the community, the healthcare experience for prostate cancer patients in Pembroke can be significantly enhanced. For those moving to Pembroke, understanding these factors is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective care.