28398, Warsaw, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.91 percent of residents in 28398 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.37 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398)

Considering a move to the charming town of Warsaw, North Carolina, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28398, evaluating the ease of transportation to essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

Warsaw, a community in Duplin County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges regarding transportation and healthcare access. Prostate cancer screening and treatment often require regular appointments, making convenient transportation a crucial factor. This score aims to empower potential residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a numerical rating but a descriptive assessment. It weighs the available transportation options against the critical healthcare needs of individuals facing prostate cancer. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the realities of accessing care in Warsaw, NC.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For residents of 28398, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities. Warsaw itself has limited immediate medical resources, necessitating travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care.

The most direct route to Wilmington, a regional hub for advanced medical care, involves taking **NC-24 East**. This drive, approximately 60 miles, can take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Wilmington offers a range of urology specialists, radiation oncology centers, and surgical facilities essential for prostate cancer treatment.

Alternatively, residents might consider healthcare options in Jacksonville, roughly 40 miles away. The journey involves taking **NC-24 West**. This drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Jacksonville offers some medical services, but the scope of specialized prostate cancer care is generally less extensive than in Wilmington.

Another option is Raleigh, the state capital, located approximately 100 miles away. The route involves taking **NC-24 East** to **I-40 East**. This drive, which can take 2 to 2.5 hours, offers access to major medical centers and comprehensive prostate cancer treatment options.

The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes or construction, can significantly impact travel times. Regular maintenance and awareness of potential delays are crucial for patients needing to attend appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Warsaw and the surrounding area is limited. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. There is no established fixed-route bus system within the town itself.

Duplin County does provide a demand-response transportation service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, this service, known as **Duplin County Transportation**, requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent appointments or frequent visits. It can be challenging to secure transportation for regular appointments.

The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles is a critical factor for individuals with mobility impairments. Inquiring about the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is essential when utilizing the county’s transportation service.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score." The reliance on personal vehicles or limited demand-response services creates barriers to care for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Warsaw, but their presence is not guaranteed. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky due to potential delays and the possibility of no available drivers.

Medical transport services, such as **CareRide** and **First Medical Transport**, offer specialized transportation for patients needing medical care. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be expensive and often require advance booking.

Medical transport services can be a lifeline for those unable to drive or use public transit. However, the cost and the need for pre-planning can pose significant challenges.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Warsaw, NC (28398) reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the town offers a peaceful lifestyle, its distance from specialized medical facilities and the limited public transportation options create significant hurdles.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long drive times to access care are primary concerns. The lack of readily available public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial alternative, but the cost and the need for pre-planning add to the complexity.

**Moving to Warsaw: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to Warsaw, NC, and concerned about prostate cancer care, careful planning is essential. Before relocating, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and explore available healthcare options.

Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in the area is crucial. This physician can provide referrals to specialists and help navigate the healthcare system.

It is also advisable to research the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options. Understanding the costs and booking procedures for these services is essential.

Finally, individuals should familiarize themselves with the drive times to nearby medical centers, including Wilmington, Jacksonville, and Raleigh. This knowledge will allow for informed decision-making about healthcare access.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and a realistic understanding of healthcare access in Warsaw, NC. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, prospective residents must carefully consider the transportation and healthcare implications before making a move. The ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively is paramount for individuals seeking prostate cancer screening and treatment.