28584, Swansboro, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.38 percent of residents in 28584 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 14.49 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swansboro (ZIP Code 28584)

Considering a move to the charming coastal town of Swansboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28584)? This assessment provides a detailed overview of healthcare access, specifically focusing on prostate cancer care, with an emphasis on transportation options. Understanding the intricacies of getting to and from medical appointments is crucial, especially when dealing with a serious illness. This write-up will explore the available pathways to healthcare, enabling informed decisions about your health and your future in Swansboro.

Swansboro, nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, proximity to specialized medical care is a critical factor for anyone, particularly those concerned about prostate health. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment often require frequent visits to specialists, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape efficiently is paramount for maintaining continuity of care and minimizing stress during a challenging time.

The primary healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity is the CarolinaEast Health System, with its main hospital located in New Bern. This hospital, while offering a range of services, might not always have the specialized expertise or equipment needed for advanced prostate cancer treatments. Therefore, understanding the transportation options to more comprehensive facilities becomes essential.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The most common mode of transportation in this area is personal vehicle. From Swansboro, the drive to CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern typically takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route involves using **Highway 24** East, a well-maintained road that provides a direct link. This is the most straightforward and generally the quickest route.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients often travel to larger medical centers. The **Vidant Medical Center** in Greenville, a regional referral center, is another important destination. The drive to Greenville from Swansboro involves taking **Highway 24** East to **Highway 17** North, then connecting to **Highway 102** and eventually **US-264** West. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Greenville.

Another option is to travel to the **UNC Medical Center** in Chapel Hill, which is known for its comprehensive cancer care. This is a longer drive, approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours, primarily via **Highway 24** East to **Highway 70** West, then onto **I-40** West. This route traverses a significant distance, and careful planning is required, especially for frequent appointments.

These drive times highlight the importance of considering the distance to specialized healthcare facilities when making a decision about moving to Swansboro. The availability of reliable transportation, whether a personal vehicle or alternative options, is a significant factor in ensuring timely access to care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Limited Options**

Public transportation options in this region are limited. The primary provider of public transit is the **Carteret County Transportation System**. However, its services are primarily focused on local routes and may not offer direct connections to the larger medical centers in New Bern or Greenville.

The Carteret County Transportation System provides door-to-door service for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot use fixed-route services. This service, which is ADA-compliant, requires advance booking and may have limitations on the distance traveled. The system’s routes are not designed to cater to the needs of patients requiring regular trips to specialists.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for accessing healthcare, especially for those without the means to drive themselves. The absence of frequent, direct routes to specialized medical facilities poses a challenge for individuals needing regular treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Swansboro area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Relying on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable.

Medical transportation services, such as **Care Ride** or **FirstLight Home Care**, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and navigating medical facilities. They can be a valuable resource for individuals who are unable to drive or who require assistance. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking.

For individuals with financial constraints, exploring options like community-based transportation programs or assistance from charitable organizations may be necessary. These programs can provide financial aid or subsidized transportation services to help patients access the care they need.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for Swansboro, considering transportation, is moderate. While the town offers a pleasant environment, the limited access to specialized medical care and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive alternatives significantly impact healthcare access.

Moving to Swansboro requires careful consideration of the available transportation options and the distance to specialized medical facilities. Individuals with prostate cancer or those at high risk should factor in the potential travel time and cost when making their decision.

Planning ahead, establishing a reliable transportation plan, and researching all available resources are critical for ensuring seamless access to healthcare. Consulting with healthcare providers and social workers can provide valuable insights and assistance in navigating the healthcare landscape in the Swansboro area.

The decision to move to Swansboro is a personal one, and the factors described here are just a piece of the puzzle. However, understanding the transportation challenges and the available healthcare options is crucial for making an informed decision and ensuring a positive experience for those seeking care in the area. The ability to secure reliable transportation is fundamental to healthcare access, particularly for those facing the challenges of prostate cancer.