The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
68.10 percent of residents in 28469 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 13.05 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
Prostate Cancer Score | 46 |
---|---|
People Score | 79 |
Provider Score | 31 |
Hospital Score | 53 |
Travel Score | 24 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 28469 | Ocean Isle Beach | North Carolina |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.19 | 0.19 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 25.53 | 25.53 | 19.36 |
2 Cars | 38.28 | 38.28 | 40.83 |
3 or More Cars | 36.00 | 36.00 | 37.67 |
Vehicular Access in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ocean Isle Beach (ZIP Code 28469)
Considering a move to the sun-kissed shores of Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28469)? Beyond the allure of pristine beaches and tranquil coastal living, a crucial aspect to consider is healthcare access, particularly for men concerned about prostate cancer. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating transportation options and the ease of reaching essential medical services. The score will reflect the realistic challenges and opportunities for men in this area.
The primary focus will be on the availability of urological care, including diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans), radiation therapy, and surgical options, all crucial elements in the fight against prostate cancer. We’ll delve into the specifics of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, highlighting their accessibility and limitations.
**Understanding the Score:**
The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment based on the following criteria:
* **Drive Time:** The time required to reach urology specialists and treatment centers via car.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation:** The presence of specialized medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to and availability of healthcare facilities offering prostate cancer treatment.
The score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the least accessible and 5 representing the most accessible healthcare environment.
**The Landscape of Healthcare in 28469:**
Ocean Isle Beach, a charming coastal community, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. While the town itself offers a relaxed lifestyle, it’s relatively isolated in terms of medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive healthcare options are primarily located in Brunswick County and Wilmington.
**Driving the Distance: Navigating Roads and Highways**
For most residents of Ocean Isle Beach, the personal vehicle remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary routes to access urological care involve navigating the local roads and highways.
* **To the West:** Heading west, residents typically utilize NC-179, which merges onto US-17. This route leads towards Shallotte, the county seat, where some basic medical services are available. Drive time to Shallotte is generally 15-20 minutes.
* **To the North:** Accessing Wilmington necessitates traveling north on US-17. This is the most direct route to the larger hospitals and specialist clinics. Expect a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
* **To the East:** There are limited options to the east.
The condition of the roads is generally good, but traffic, particularly during peak tourist seasons, can significantly impact travel times.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation in Brunswick County is limited. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) offers a demand-response service, meaning you must schedule rides in advance. This service is available to the general public but is primarily geared towards seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited mobility.
* **Routes and ADA Features:** BCTS operates a limited number of routes, and their availability to Ocean Isle Beach residents is restricted. While the vehicles are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair access, the service's limited frequency and the requirement for advance booking make it less than ideal for urgent medical needs.
* **Frequency and Accessibility:** The frequency of BCTS routes is low, and the service operates primarily during weekdays. This limits its usefulness for accessing specialist appointments or emergency care.
**Ride-Sharing: A Growing Presence**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ocean Isle Beach area, although their availability may be less consistent than in larger urban centers.
* **Availability and Cost:** The availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the season, and driver availability. Costs can vary significantly, especially during peak demand periods.
* **Reliability:** While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, its reliability is not guaranteed, particularly for scheduled medical appointments.
**Medical Transportation: Specialized Support**
Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments.
* **Brands and Services:** Several medical transportation companies operate in the area, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Cost and Coverage:** The cost of medical transportation services can vary depending on the distance and the level of assistance required. Insurance coverage for these services may vary, so it's essential to verify coverage before relying on them.
**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Availability**
The proximity to and availability of healthcare facilities offering prostate cancer treatment is a critical factor.
* **Shallotte:** Shallotte offers some basic medical services, including primary care physicians. However, specialized urological care is limited.
* **Wilmington:** Wilmington, located approximately an hour's drive from Ocean Isle Beach, houses the major hospitals and specialist clinics. New Hanover Regional Medical Center and other facilities offer comprehensive urological services, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and surgical options.
* **Other Options:** Other healthcare facilities in the region, such as those in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, may offer additional options, but they involve longer travel times.
**Prostate Cancer Score for Ocean Isle Beach (28469):**
Considering the factors discussed, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Ocean Isle Beach (28469) is a **2.5 out of 5.**
**Rationale:**
* **Drive Time:** While driving is the primary mode of transportation, the drive time to reach specialized urological care in Wilmington is significant, impacting healthcare access.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options offer little benefit for healthcare access.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing provides a potential alternative, but availability and cost are not guaranteed.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical transportation services offer a valuable option for those who need it, but the cost is a factor.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to comprehensive urological care in Wilmington is a significant barrier.
**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**
* **Prioritize Proximity:** When considering a move, evaluate the proximity to healthcare facilities and specialists.
* **Plan for Transportation:** If driving is not an option, explore ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Establish a Medical Network:** Before moving, identify and establish a relationship with urologists and other healthcare providers.
* **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for medical transportation and specialist visits.
**Conclusion:**
While Ocean Isle Beach offers an idyllic coastal lifestyle, prospective residents should carefully consider the challenges of healthcare access, especially for conditions like prostate cancer. Understanding the transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical services is crucial for making informed decisions. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make choices that prioritize their health and well-being. The move to Ocean Isle Beach needs a careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access.
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