28464, Teachey, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.93 percent of residents in 28464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.24 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Teachey, NC (ZIP Code 28464)

The decision to relocate, especially to a place like Teachey, North Carolina, in ZIP code 28464, is often driven by a desire for tranquility, a slower pace of life, and perhaps, a more affordable cost of living. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals managing health concerns such as prostate cancer, it's crucial to factor in healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28464, evaluating the ease of transportation to essential medical services, focusing on prostate cancer treatment and care. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services.

Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount. The ability to reach a urologist, radiation oncologist, or a specialized cancer center quickly and reliably can significantly impact treatment outcomes and overall well-being. This score aims to illuminate the practicalities of accessing prostate cancer healthcare from Teachey, offering insights for those considering a move or already residing in the area.

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

Teachey, a charming town nestled in Duplin County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are US Highway 117, North Carolina Highway 24, and secondary roads like NC-903. The proximity to these arteries dictates the feasibility of reaching medical facilities.

For prostate cancer patients, the nearest comprehensive healthcare options lie in larger towns and cities. Wilmington, approximately 60 miles east, houses New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), offering advanced cancer treatment. The drive to Wilmington, primarily via NC-24 and US-117, can take roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a significant commute, especially for frequent appointments like radiation therapy.

Jacksonville, about 40 miles southeast, offers additional healthcare options, including Onslow Memorial Hospital. The drive, mainly on NC-24, is generally shorter, around 45 minutes to an hour. However, Jacksonville's cancer services may be less comprehensive than those in Wilmington.

Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, just a short drive from Teachey, provides basic medical services but lacks specialized cancer care. The drive is usually under 15 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transportation options in Duplin County and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of public transit for healthcare access is a significant concern for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Duplin County does not have a county-wide public bus system. The primary form of public transportation is the Duplin County Transportation System, which offers demand-response services. This system operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance booking, and is primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The Duplin County Transportation System operates within the county limits and, in some cases, offers transportation to neighboring counties. However, accessing Wilmington or Jacksonville via public transit is extremely challenging. The lack of readily available and frequent public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those reliant on these services. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of the Duplin County Transportation System should be confirmed at the time of booking.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Teachey and surrounding rural areas are questionable. The frequency of drivers and the potential for surge pricing, especially during peak hours or medical emergencies, pose challenges.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically cater to individuals requiring transportation to and from medical appointments, including those undergoing cancer treatment.

However, the cost of NEMT can be a significant barrier. The availability of these services and the ability to secure transportation on short notice are also crucial considerations. Insurance coverage for NEMT varies, and patients should verify their coverage and any associated out-of-pocket expenses.

**Prostate Cancer Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the available information, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28464 is moderate. The primary strength lies in the relatively short drive to Duplin General Hospital for basic medical needs. However, the significant commute times to Wilmington or Jacksonville for specialized cancer care present a considerable challenge.

The limited public transit options and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services further diminish the score. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential financial burden of NEMT contribute to the overall assessment.

**Moving to Teachey: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals with prostate cancer or those at high risk, a move to Teachey requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The long drive times to specialized cancer centers and the lack of robust public transit necessitate a reliable transportation plan.

Before relocating, prospective residents should:

* **Verify insurance coverage:** Confirm that their health insurance plan covers treatment at the hospitals in Wilmington or Jacksonville and includes NEMT if needed.
* **Assess transportation needs:** Determine if they can drive or need assistance. Explore the availability and cost of NEMT services.
* **Research local healthcare providers:** Identify urologists, oncologists, and other specialists in the area.
* **Consider proximity to family or support networks:** Having family or friends nearby to assist with transportation and appointments can significantly improve healthcare access.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more in-depth evaluation. The decision to move to Teachey should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape and a proactive plan to ensure timely and accessible care. The ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges is key to maintaining **healthcare access**. For those considering **moving to Teachey**, a thorough investigation of these factors is essential for a smooth transition and successful management of prostate cancer.