28384, Saint Pauls, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28384, Saint Pauls, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.78 percent of residents in 28384 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Pauls (ZIP Code 28384)

The specter of prostate cancer looms, a reality for countless men. Early detection is paramount, a truth inextricably linked to **healthcare access**. For residents of Saint Pauls, North Carolina (ZIP code 28384), the journey to potentially life-saving care involves a complex interplay of **transportation** options, each influencing the Prostate Cancer Score – a measure of how readily individuals can access screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis delves into the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, offering a comprehensive understanding for those living within the community and those **moving to Saint Pauls**.

The Prostate Cancer Score considers several factors. Proximity to specialized medical facilities, the efficiency and reliability of available **transportation** methods, and the affordability of these options all contribute. Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs, play a crucial role in mitigating barriers to care. This score is not a definitive medical assessment but rather a reflection of the ease or difficulty a resident faces in accessing necessary prostate cancer-related healthcare.

For residents of 28384, the primary medical hubs are located in Lumberton, approximately 15 miles to the east, and Fayetteville, roughly 40 miles north. These distances translate directly into drive times, which become the foundation for understanding **healthcare access**. The primary route to Lumberton is via NC-20, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, dependent on traffic conditions. This drive is manageable, but the time spent on the road is a factor.

Accessing Fayetteville necessitates a journey on I-95, a major interstate highway. This route offers a faster, more direct connection, typically taking 45-60 minutes, again factoring in traffic. However, I-95 is known for its heavy traffic volume, particularly during rush hour, which can significantly extend travel times. The condition of the roads, especially after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

Public **transportation** options are limited in 28384. Robeson County, in which Saint Pauls resides, does not have a robust public transit system. There are no fixed-route buses serving the area. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. This limitation significantly impacts the Prostate Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, and surge pricing during peak demand can make these services costly. For individuals requiring regular appointments, the fluctuating costs and potential unreliability of ride-sharing pose a significant obstacle to consistent **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a potential solution. Companies like First Transit or MedRide may operate in the region. However, availability and eligibility criteria for these services vary. Often, these services are reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or those who qualify for assistance programs. The process of securing these services can be complex, requiring pre-authorization and coordination.

The Prostate Cancer Score is also influenced by the availability of support services. Patient navigators, who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, can be invaluable. They can help with scheduling appointments, coordinating **transportation**, and understanding insurance coverage. The presence of such services within the local healthcare system, or in nearby Lumberton or Fayetteville, can significantly improve the patient experience and enhance the Prostate Cancer Score.

The financial burden of **transportation** is a critical consideration. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees can add up, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent medical visits. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by hospitals or cancer support organizations, can help alleviate this burden and improve **healthcare access**.

For residents **moving to Saint Pauls**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is crucial. Researching the availability of medical facilities, including their specialized services and patient support programs, is essential. Assessing the reliability and affordability of various **transportation** options is also critical. Consider the potential need for medical **transportation** services or the availability of ride-sharing options.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 28384 reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While the proximity to Lumberton offers a relatively short drive, the lack of public **transportation** and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services create barriers. The longer drive to Fayetteville, while offering a wider range of specialized services, adds to the **transportation** burden. The availability of patient navigators and financial assistance programs in the region will positively impact the score.

Improving the Prostate Cancer Score in 28384 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public **transportation** options, even with limited routes, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Expanding the availability of medical **transportation** services and ensuring their affordability is also critical. Furthermore, promoting awareness of patient support programs and financial assistance options can help mitigate the financial and logistical challenges associated with accessing prostate cancer care.

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a disease like prostate cancer, is not simply about the distance to a doctor’s office. It's about the ease of that journey, the support available along the way, and the financial burden it entails. For residents of Saint Pauls, understanding these factors is the first step toward ensuring that all men have the opportunity for early detection and effective treatment. The Prostate Cancer Score, therefore, is a dynamic measure, one that can and should be improved through community efforts and policy changes aimed at enhancing **healthcare access** and reducing the burden of **transportation**.