28391, Stedman, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 28391 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 13.05 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stedman, NC (ZIP Code 28391)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, is not merely a physical trek. It’s a complex equation involving time, accessibility, and the emotional weight of the unknown. In Stedman, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28391), this equation is further complicated by the rural landscape, influencing the Prostate Cancer Score – a measure of how readily residents can access vital diagnostic and treatment services. This write-up aims to provide a detailed assessment, focusing on the various transportation options available to those facing this challenge, especially for individuals considering moving to Stedman.

The core of the Prostate Cancer Score lies in understanding the accessibility of key healthcare facilities. For residents of 28391, this primarily means navigating to Fayetteville, the nearest urban center with comprehensive medical resources. The drive, a crucial factor, hinges on the efficiency of the local transportation infrastructure.

For those with personal vehicles, the most direct route to Fayetteville involves a drive primarily along US-401 South. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly around the city limits. The distance, roughly 15-20 miles, translates to a drive time that can vary from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Alternative routes, utilizing secondary roads like NC-24 West and NC-87 South, offer options, but often add mileage and potential delays due to stop signs and slower speed limits.

The Prostate Cancer Score takes into account the time required to reach specialized medical centers. The Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a major regional healthcare provider, is a critical destination for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The drive time to this facility, and other specialized clinics, directly impacts the score. Shorter drive times translate to a higher score, reflecting better healthcare access.

Public transportation, a vital lifeline for many, presents a more limited landscape in Stedman. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) offers bus routes that extend into the surrounding areas, but service frequency and route coverage are sparse in the 28391 ZIP code. While FAST operates with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, including accessible features on their buses, the limited routes and schedules can create significant challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of direct routes to key healthcare facilities further diminishes the score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, their availability in Stedman can be less reliable, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The Prostate Cancer Score considers the cost-effectiveness and availability of these services, recognizing that financial constraints can severely impact healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like First Transit or MedRide offer specialized transport, often with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services provide crucial support, they can be expensive and require advance booking. The Prostate Cancer Score assesses the availability and affordability of these specialized transportation options, acknowledging their importance for individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs.

The emotional toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis adds another layer to the transportation challenge. The stress of navigating unfamiliar roads, coordinating transportation, and managing appointments can be overwhelming. The Prostate Cancer Score considers the overall patient experience, recognizing that ease of access to healthcare is not just about physical proximity but also about minimizing stress and maximizing support.

For those considering moving to Stedman, the Prostate Cancer Score becomes a crucial factor in their decision-making process. The score should be considered alongside other factors like housing costs, community amenities, and job opportunities. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely access to medical care, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The score is not static. It is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare services. Improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the introduction of new medical transportation options can all positively impact the score, enhancing healthcare access for residents of Stedman.

The Prostate Cancer Score is a holistic assessment. It acknowledges the importance of timely access to medical care, the complexities of transportation, and the emotional well-being of individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. It provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare accessibility in Stedman, North Carolina, and helps residents make informed decisions about their health and well-being.