28438, Evergreen, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28438, Evergreen, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.51 percent of residents in 28438 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 13.23 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28438

The journey to effective prostate cancer care is multifaceted, extending beyond the doctor's office to encompass the practical realities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This write-up, tailored for ZIP Code 28438, provides a comprehensive understanding of these factors, crucial for anyone considering *moving to Evergreen* or seeking treatment in the area. We'll explore the available options, from driving times to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of the Prostate Cancer Score for this specific locale.

Evergreen, North Carolina, nestled within the embrace of Columbus County, presents a unique landscape for accessing healthcare. While the rural setting offers tranquility, it also introduces complexities regarding *transportation*. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities, including those specializing in urology and oncology, are concentrated in larger towns and cities, necessitating careful consideration of travel times and available resources.

For those who prefer the independence of personal vehicles, the primary arteries for *transportation* in and out of 28438 are Highway 74/76 and US-701. Driving times to key healthcare destinations vary depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. Whiteville, the county seat, is generally accessible within a 15-20 minute drive. However, for specialized care, such as advanced prostate cancer treatments, patients often need to travel to Wilmington or Fayetteville. The drive to Wilmington, using Highway 74/76, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Fayetteville, reachable via US-701 and other connecting roads, is about a 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hour journey.

These drive times, while manageable for routine check-ups, become more challenging during periods of treatment, when fatigue and mobility issues are common. The availability of reliable *transportation* becomes paramount.

Public *transportation* options in Columbus County are limited. The Columbus County Transportation Authority (CCTA) offers a demand-response service. This service, while available, requires advance booking and may not be ideal for immediate needs or appointments with tight schedules. Riders should call (910) 642-2999 to arrange a ride. ADA accessibility is a priority, with CCTA vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and scheduling constraints can significantly impact *healthcare access*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible alternative to public *transportation*. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Patients should factor in potential wait times and surge pricing when relying on these services. Booking in advance, especially for critical appointments, is highly recommended.

Medical *transportation* services are also available, providing specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. These services typically offer door-to-door *transportation* and may include assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several providers operate in the region, including Firstat Nursing Services and MedTrans. These services are particularly valuable for patients undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, where frequent trips to the hospital are required. It's crucial to research different providers, compare pricing, and assess their experience with prostate cancer patients.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 28438 is influenced by several factors. The relatively long drive times to specialized care facilities, combined with the limitations of public *transportation*, create challenges for *healthcare access*. While ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* offer alternatives, their availability and cost must be considered.

For individuals *moving to Evergreen* or seeking treatment in the area, careful planning is essential. Establishing a support network of family and friends who can provide *transportation* assistance is invaluable. Exploring all available *transportation* options, including ride-sharing and medical *transportation*, is crucial.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for 28438 is moderately impacted by *transportation* limitations. While the drive times to Wilmington and Fayetteville are manageable, the lack of robust public *transportation* and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can create barriers to *healthcare access*, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited financial resources.

The availability of medical *transportation* services offers a vital lifeline for many patients. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden. Therefore, it is essential to investigate insurance coverage for medical *transportation* and explore any available financial assistance programs.

The proximity of Whiteville, the county seat, provides some degree of local *healthcare access*. However, the absence of specialized prostate cancer treatment centers within the immediate vicinity necessitates travel to larger cities. This travel burden can impact the overall quality of life for patients and their families.

The *transportation* landscape in 28438 requires a proactive approach to *healthcare access*. Patients should proactively research and arrange *transportation* well in advance of appointments. They should communicate their *transportation* needs to their healthcare providers, who may be able to offer helpful resources and guidance.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 28438 is not insurmountable. With careful planning, resourcefulness, and a supportive network, patients can successfully navigate the *transportation* challenges and receive the necessary care. However, the *transportation* limitations underscore the importance of advocacy for improved public *transportation* and increased access to medical *transportation* services in rural areas.

Finally, the journey to effective prostate cancer care is a partnership between patients, their families, and the healthcare system. By understanding the *transportation* landscape, patients in 28438 can proactively address the challenges and ensure they receive the best possible care. As the population ages and the prevalence of prostate cancer increases, addressing *healthcare access* and *transportation* needs will become even more critical.