28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.98 percent of residents in 28387 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital with a distance of 4.29 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28387

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like prostate cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not only the medical expertise available but also the ease with which a patient can access that care. This write-up analyzes the prostate cancer score for residents of ZIP Code 28387 (Southern Pines, NC), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Considering a potential move to Southern Pines? This analysis will help you understand the logistical landscape of receiving care.

The prostate cancer score isn’t a formal metric but a composite assessment of factors influencing a patient's ability to reach necessary medical appointments. It considers drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Southern Pines, nestled in Moore County, relies heavily on vehicular transportation. The primary arteries for accessing specialized medical care are US-1, US-15/501, and NC-22. These roads connect Southern Pines to larger medical centers in Pinehurst, Fayetteville, and Raleigh.

The drive to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, a major healthcare provider, is typically a short and manageable trip. Most residents can reach it within 10-15 minutes via US-1 or NC-22. This proximity significantly boosts the prostate cancer score, allowing for timely appointments and follow-up care.

For more specialized treatments, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Fayetteville or Raleigh. The drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, approximately 40-50 miles away, takes about an hour via US-1. This increases travel time and potential stress for patients, impacting the score negatively.

Raleigh, with its comprehensive medical facilities, including UNC Health and Duke Health, is a further journey, roughly 70-80 miles away. The most direct route is via US-1, and the drive can take up to 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This longer commute presents a significant challenge, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, potentially diminishing the prostate cancer score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Southern Pines are limited. Moore County offers a demand-response transit system, the Moore County Transportation Authority (MCTA). This system provides door-to-door service, but it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent appointments.

The MCTA operates primarily within Moore County, offering limited routes to surrounding areas. There is no direct public transit route to Fayetteville or Raleigh. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the prostate cancer score, especially for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive.

ADA accessibility is available on MCTA vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the reliance on advance booking and the limited geographic reach still present significant hurdles for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Southern Pines, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments, potentially influencing the prostate cancer score.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transportation providers, are available for patients who require assistance. These services are often covered by insurance but require pre-authorization and may have limited availability. The efficiency and reliability of these services are critical for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that makes driving unsafe.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The prostate cancer score for 28387 is moderately impacted by the transportation landscape. While proximity to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital provides a strong foundation for local care, the need for specialized treatments in Fayetteville or Raleigh introduces significant transportation challenges.

The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline, but their reliability and cost are essential considerations.

**Moving to Southern Pines: Planning for Healthcare**

For individuals considering a move to Southern Pines, understanding the transportation infrastructure is critical. Assess your healthcare needs and consider the potential impact of travel times and transportation costs.

If you anticipate requiring frequent specialized treatments, factor in the commute times to Fayetteville or Raleigh. Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing services or medical transport options. Consider the potential need for assistance from family, friends, or community resources.

The prostate cancer score is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is about the ability to reach them. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape, you can make informed decisions and ensure that you have access to the care you need, regardless of where you choose to live.