28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.57 percent of residents in 28543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brynn Marr Hosp with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28543

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is a multifaceted one. It involves not just the medical expertise of the physician, but also the often-overlooked complexities of transportation and healthcare access. This write-up assesses the prostate cancer score, a holistic measure of the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 28543 can access vital diagnostic and treatment services. We'll explore the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all while acknowledging the unique needs of individuals facing this challenging diagnosis.

The ZIP Code 28543, encompassing the community of Tarawa Terrace, is located in Onslow County, North Carolina. Its proximity to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune significantly influences its demographic profile and, consequently, its healthcare needs. Prostate cancer, a disease predominantly affecting older men, requires a careful assessment of the available resources for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. The prostate cancer score for this area considers the accessibility of these crucial services.

For those who prefer to drive, the primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities are well-defined. The main arteries, US-17 and NC-24, provide the most direct pathways. US-17, a major north-south thoroughfare, allows relatively quick access to Jacksonville, where a significant concentration of medical facilities exists. NC-24, running east-west, offers another route to Jacksonville and further connects to other towns and cities with specialized medical services. Drive times to Jacksonville, the primary hub for healthcare in the area, can vary depending on traffic conditions, but generally range from 10 to 20 minutes, assuming optimal conditions. The efficiency of this transportation is a key component of the prostate cancer score.

Beyond Jacksonville, the availability of more specialized treatment options may necessitate travel to larger cities like Wilmington, approximately an hour's drive south via US-17. This adds a layer of complexity to the equation, potentially increasing the time and effort required for appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The prostate cancer score must account for these longer travel times, particularly for patients who may experience fatigue or other side effects from their treatment. This aspect of transportation is a significant factor in the overall healthcare access.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not drive or have difficulty driving. The Onslow County Transit System provides bus services, but the routes and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of all residents, especially those with mobility limitations. The lack of extensive public transit options can be a significant barrier to accessing timely medical care. The prostate cancer score must consider this limitation, especially for those who cannot rely on personal vehicles.

The Onslow County Transit System operates with some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, including accessible vehicles. However, the routes and schedules may not always align with the specific needs of patients undergoing prostate cancer treatment, such as frequent appointments or the need for transportation during times of fatigue. The availability and reliability of these services are critical factors in determining the prostate cancer score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing another potential mode of transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. For patients on a fixed income or facing financial constraints due to medical expenses, the cost of ride-sharing could be a significant barrier to healthcare access. The prostate cancer score must take into account the potential financial burden associated with these services.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. The availability, cost, and reliability of medical transport services are crucial considerations for the prostate cancer score. The ability to access these services can significantly improve healthcare access for those who need them.

The decision to move to Tarawa Terrace (28543) requires careful consideration of healthcare access, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those concerned about their future health. The prostate cancer score, as a measure of healthcare accessibility, is a vital factor in this decision-making process. The availability of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is a critical component of this score.

The prostate cancer score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities offering specialized services, such as urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers. The concentration of these specialists in Jacksonville is a positive factor, but the potential need to travel to Wilmington or other larger cities for more specialized treatment can impact the overall score. The ability to access these specialized services is a crucial element of the prostate cancer score.

The quality of care available within the local healthcare system is another important consideration. The reputation of the local hospitals, clinics, and medical professionals plays a significant role in the overall prostate cancer score. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, and the implementation of the latest treatment protocols, such as robotic surgery and targeted therapies, are all important factors. The quality of care is a fundamental aspect of the prostate cancer score.

The overall prostate cancer score for ZIP Code 28543, while benefiting from the presence of healthcare facilities in Jacksonville, is somewhat tempered by the limitations in public transportation and the potential need for travel to more distant cities for specialized care. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their cost and reliability must be considered. The score reflects the balance between these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access for individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. The prostate cancer score is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving as healthcare access and transportation infrastructure change.