The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
53.10 percent of residents in 28669 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.49 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina
Prostate Cancer Score | 12 |
---|---|
People Score | 23 |
Provider Score | 32 |
Hospital Score | 20 |
Travel Score | 52 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 28669 | Roaring River | North Carolina |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 12.62 | 12.62 | 19.36 |
2 Cars | 42.56 | 42.56 | 40.83 |
3 or More Cars | 44.82 | 44.82 | 37.67 |
Vehicular Access in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina
## Prostate Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Roaring River (ZIP Code 28669)
The bucolic charm of Roaring River, North Carolina, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a tranquil escape. Yet, for residents facing the complexities of prostate cancer, the serene landscape presents a significant challenge: access to specialized healthcare. This analysis, a "Prostate Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 28669, specifically focusing on how residents can access necessary medical services, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living with or at risk of prostate cancer. Considering moving to Roaring River? This is crucial information.
The foundation of any prostate cancer score lies in the proximity to medical facilities. In Roaring River, residents primarily rely on driving to access healthcare. The nearest comprehensive medical centers, equipped with urology departments, radiation oncology, and surgical capabilities, are located in Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, approximately 15 to 30 minutes away, depending on traffic and the specific destination.
The primary route to these centers is via **NC-18**, a winding two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. Navigating **NC-18** requires careful driving, especially in inclement weather, which is common in the mountains. **NC-18** connects to **US-421**, the major artery leading to Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro. The drive time on **US-421** is generally shorter, but traffic can still be a factor, particularly during morning and afternoon commutes.
For those seeking specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or robotic surgery, the drive to larger medical centers in Winston-Salem (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) or Charlotte (approximately 2 hours) becomes necessary. This significantly increases the time commitment and potential stress associated with healthcare appointments. The route to Winston-Salem typically involves **US-421** and then **I-77** or **US-52**. The journey to Charlotte involves **US-421** to **I-77**.
Public transportation options in Roaring River and the surrounding areas are limited. The Wilkes Transportation Authority (WTA) provides some bus services within Wilkes County, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve Roaring River. Furthermore, the WTA's services are not specifically designed for medical transport, and the routes may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. Accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments is a critical consideration. While the WTA strives to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the limited service area and infrequent routes may pose a challenge for those requiring accessible transportation.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel to larger medical centers. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare transportation can be unpredictable and financially burdensome.
Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. Careful consideration of insurance benefits and out-of-pocket expenses is essential.
The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Roaring River reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services contribute to a moderate score. The drive times to the nearest medical centers are reasonable, but the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care significantly increases the time and effort required. The lack of robust public transit and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.
Individuals considering moving to Roaring River, or those already residing there, should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation options. For those diagnosed with prostate cancer, the ability to access timely and consistent medical care is crucial. Planning for transportation, including identifying reliable drivers, exploring medical transportation services, and understanding insurance coverage, is essential.
The score also highlights the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access. Increased public transportation options, particularly those designed to serve medical needs, could significantly improve the lives of residents. Partnerships between local organizations, healthcare providers, and transportation services could create more accessible and affordable transportation solutions.
In conclusion, while Roaring River offers a beautiful and peaceful environment, the "Prostate Cancer Score" reveals that access to healthcare, particularly for those with complex medical needs, presents a significant challenge. Careful planning, proactive research, and a willingness to navigate the transportation landscape are crucial for residents seeking to manage their prostate cancer care effectively. The availability of specialized services, the reliability of transportation, and the financial implications of healthcare access are all critical factors to consider. The score serves as a reminder that while the mountains may be majestic, the journey to healthcare can sometimes be arduous.
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