28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.61 percent of residents in 28337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 1.78 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethtown, NC (ZIP Code 28337)

The golden years, often envisioned as a time of leisure and reflection, can be shadowed by the persistent ache and limitations of arthritis. In Elizabethtown, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28337), a town nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Bladen County, the ability to access timely and effective healthcare is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the practical realities of *transportation* options for individuals managing arthritis, offering a comprehensive assessment of *healthcare access* within the area. It's a crucial consideration for anyone *moving to Elizabethtown*, particularly those seeking a supportive environment for managing their condition.

Elizabethtown, while offering a tranquil pace of life, presents unique challenges regarding mobility. The town’s infrastructure is primarily designed around personal vehicle use, making alternative *transportation* options less readily available. This reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts the Arthritis Score, as the ability to drive, or the availability of reliable alternatives, directly affects healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of *transportation* in Elizabethtown is the personal vehicle. Primary healthcare providers, including family physicians and specialists, are generally accessible within a reasonable driving distance. However, the specifics of drive times depend heavily on the location within the ZIP code and the destination.

For residents in central Elizabethtown, accessing the primary healthcare facilities, such as Bladen Healthcare, located on West Broad Street, typically involves a drive of less than 10 minutes. This ease of access is a positive factor in the Arthritis Score, allowing for quick trips for appointments, medication refills, and routine check-ups. However, the presence of traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend these times, adding to the physical strain for individuals with arthritis.

Specialty care, such as rheumatology, may necessitate travel outside of Elizabethtown. The closest rheumatologists are often located in larger cities like Fayetteville, approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive via US-701 South and I-95. This journey can be taxing for individuals with arthritis, requiring careful planning and consideration of the physical demands of the drive. The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also exacerbate pain and discomfort.

Further afield, larger medical centers and specialized clinics in Wilmington, about an hour and a half away via NC-87 South and US-74 East, offer a broader range of services. However, the extended travel time significantly impacts the Arthritis Score, making these options less accessible for routine care. The physical toll of a long drive, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can be a significant barrier to *healthcare access*.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public *transportation* options in Elizabethtown are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations. Bladen County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of readily available public *transportation* dramatically lowers the Arthritis Score, as it restricts *healthcare access* for those unable to drive or who lack access to a personal vehicle.

While there are no fixed-route bus services, the county may offer limited demand-response *transportation* services. These services, often requiring advance booking, are primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, availability and scheduling can be unpredictable, and these services may not always align with appointment times or the need for urgent care.

The absence of ADA-compliant features, such as accessible bus stops and ramps, further compounds the challenges for individuals with arthritis. The lack of reliable and accessible public *transportation* significantly restricts *healthcare access* and necessitates reliance on alternative methods.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Elizabethtown, though their availability is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. The Arthritis Score is moderately impacted by the presence of ride-sharing services. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services, often provided by companies like First Transit, typically offer door-to-door *transportation* and assistance with mobility. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with arthritis, they come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal vehicle use.

The availability of medical *transportation* services improves the Arthritis Score, providing a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive. However, the cost and the need for advance booking can still present challenges.

**Healthcare Access and the Arthritis Score:**

The Arthritis Score for ZIP Code 28337 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of primary care providers within Elizabethtown is a positive factor. However, the limited public *transportation* options and the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the distances to specialized care, significantly impact the score.

For individuals *moving to Elizabethtown* with arthritis, careful consideration of *transportation* needs is essential. Assessing the availability of family support, the feasibility of driving, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services is crucial.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating *healthcare access* in Elizabethtown with arthritis requires careful planning and resourcefulness. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited *transportation* options present challenges. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public *transportation*, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life. The Arthritis Score for Elizabethtown, NC (ZIP Code 28337) highlights the need for individuals with arthritis to proactively assess their *transportation* needs and plan accordingly to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare.