28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.05 percent of residents in 28445 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 21.11 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Holly Ridge, NC (ZIP Code 28445)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a condition as serious as prostate cancer, is a critical component of a patient’s well-being. In the coastal community of Holly Ridge, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28445), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed assessment of the available resources, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing alternatives, offering insights for residents and those **moving to Holly Ridge**.

Holly Ridge, nestled between Wilmington and Jacksonville, presents a unique challenge. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, its relative isolation impacts the availability of specialized medical services. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment often require multiple appointments, including consultations, imaging, surgery, and follow-up care. The efficiency and ease of getting to these appointments directly impact a patient's experience and treatment outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery connecting Holly Ridge to the broader region is Highway 17, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling north on Highway 17 provides access to Jacksonville, approximately a 30-minute drive, where Onslow Memorial Hospital offers some medical services. Heading south on Highway 17 leads to Wilmington, a journey of about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Wilmington is the primary hub for specialized prostate cancer care, boasting hospitals like New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) and numerous private practices specializing in urology and oncology.

Navigating within Holly Ridge itself relies on a network of local roads, including Old Folkstone Road and Topsail Road. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the intersection of Highway 17 and Old Folkstone Road. This can add significant time to a patient's journey, emphasizing the importance of planning and considering alternative routes when possible.

The drive times mentioned are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Holly Ridge. Patients should factor in extra time for unforeseen delays, especially when traveling to medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 28445 are extremely limited. The county does not offer a comprehensive bus system. This presents a significant barrier for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The lack of public **transportation** underscores the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation** for accessing healthcare.

The absence of public transit places a heavy burden on individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive due to their medical condition or other factors. This can exacerbate existing health disparities and limit access to timely and effective prostate cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Holly Ridge area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Patients should plan ahead and book rides in advance to ensure reliable **transportation** to and from appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients with mobility challenges. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the area, including companies like Firstat Nursing Services and others. However, availability and cost vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient.

**Healthcare Facilities and Access:**

The availability of prostate cancer specialists and treatment centers in close proximity to Holly Ridge is limited. As mentioned, Wilmington serves as the primary hub for specialized care. Patients may need to travel to Wilmington for consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment options such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

The distance to these facilities can be a significant factor in a patient's decision-making process. The time and effort required to travel to appointments can impact treatment adherence and overall quality of life. Patients should consider the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of **transportation**, and the potential costs associated with travel when selecting a healthcare provider.

**ADA Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of **transportation** options is a crucial concern. Ride-sharing services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request, but availability may be limited. Medical **transportation** services generally provide accessible vehicles. The absence of a robust public transit system with ADA-compliant features poses a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Moving to Holly Ridge: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering **moving to Holly Ridge**, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the limited availability of specialized medical services and the reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** can pose challenges for patients with chronic conditions like prostate cancer.

Prospective residents should research the healthcare providers in the area, assess the **transportation** options available, and consider the potential costs associated with travel to medical appointments. It is also advisable to establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the area who can provide referrals to specialists and coordinate care.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Holly Ridge, NC (ZIP Code 28445), requires careful planning and consideration. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges for patients seeking prostate cancer care. While Wilmington offers access to specialized medical services, the travel time and potential costs associated with **transportation** should be carefully evaluated.

For those **moving to Holly Ridge**, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Understanding the **transportation** options, researching healthcare providers, and planning for potential travel costs are crucial steps in ensuring access to timely and effective prostate cancer care. The information presented in this write-up provides a valuable starting point for patients, residents, and prospective residents to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.