28436, Delco, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28436, Delco, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.69 percent of residents in 28436 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 19.56 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28436

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when facing a diagnosis like prostate cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires understanding the logistical realities of accessing care, a critical factor often overlooked. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of transportation options for residents of ZIP code 28436, focusing on prostate cancer treatment facilities, to offer a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a nuanced perspective for individuals considering moving to Delco or seeking treatment in the area.

ZIP code 28436 encompasses a portion of New Hanover County, North Carolina, including the town of Wrightsville Beach and surrounding areas. The primary concern for prostate cancer patients is timely access to specialized care, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical facilities. The closest comprehensive healthcare hub is Wilmington, a city offering a range of medical services.

**Driving the Distance:**

The most common mode of transportation in this region is the personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare connecting Wrightsville Beach to Wilmington is **North Carolina Highway 74 (East/West) and US Highway 76**. Driving times to Wilmington's medical centers can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons.

Reaching New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the largest hospital in the area, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This drive utilizes **US 76 East**, transitioning into **Oleander Drive** or **Market Street** depending on the specific destination within the hospital complex. Traffic congestion, especially near the intersection of **US 76** and **College Road**, can easily extend this commute.

For specialized prostate cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy, patients might need to travel to the Zimmer Cancer Institute, located within NHRMC. This facility is generally accessible within the same timeframe as the main hospital. The drive to Wilmington Health, a large multi-specialty clinic, also falls within this 15-25 minute window, depending on the clinic's location.

Further afield, the drive to Duke Health in Durham, NC, for specialized treatments, could take upwards of 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. This extended travel time underscores the importance of local healthcare access for routine appointments and follow-up care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in the 28436 area are limited. The Wave Transit system provides bus services within New Hanover County. However, the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities in Wilmington.

**Route 201** is the primary route serving Wrightsville Beach, with stops along **US 74/76** and connecting to downtown Wilmington. While this route offers a potential connection to the hospital, the frequency of service and the total travel time (potentially exceeding an hour) can be a significant deterrent for patients needing regular appointments.

ADA accessibility is available on all Wave Transit buses, providing ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and potential for extended travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many prostate cancer patients, especially those experiencing fatigue or mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the 28436 area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot drive themselves or who prefer not to navigate traffic. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it typically provides a reliable option for reaching medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Coastal Transportation:** Provides transportation services for medical appointments.
* **Access Care Transportation:** Specializes in medical transportation.

These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who require assistance with mobility or who need support throughout their journey.

**Prostate Cancer Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28436 reflects a mixed picture. While driving times to Wilmington's medical facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing services, while available, can be subject to cost and availability fluctuations. Medical transportation services provide a valuable option for patients with specific needs.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate, with potential for delays due to traffic.
* **Public Transit:** Limited and infrequent, making it a less viable option for many.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Readily available but subject to cost and availability.
* **Medical Transportation:** Provides a crucial service for patients with specific needs.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increase route frequency and coverage to improve access to medical facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments.
* **Enhance Medical Transportation Services:** Increase the availability and awareness of medical transportation options.
* **Improve Traffic Management:** Implement strategies to mitigate traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

For individuals considering moving to Delco or seeking treatment in the area, it is crucial to weigh these transportation factors alongside other considerations, such as proximity to specialized care providers, insurance coverage, and personal mobility needs. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare access, but a personalized assessment considering individual circumstances is essential.