28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.00 percent of residents in 28348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 5.16 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hope Mills (ZIP Code 28348)

Considering a move to Hope Mills, North Carolina (ZIP code 28348)? For individuals managing arthritis, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of transportation to medical facilities, crucial for consistent care and pain management. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those seeking relief in this community.

The primary concern for arthritis sufferers is minimizing travel time and physical strain. Hope Mills, a suburb of Fayetteville, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban resources. However, the efficiency of your commute to healthcare significantly impacts your quality of life. Let's assess the transportation landscape.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

Hope Mills residents primarily rely on personal vehicles. The major thoroughfare is **US Highway 401**, which bisects the town, providing direct access to Fayetteville and its concentration of medical facilities. Drive times are generally manageable, though traffic during peak hours can be a factor.

For appointments at **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center** (1638 Owen Dr, Fayetteville), a common destination, expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic flow. The route typically involves taking US-401 North to Owen Drive. This is a relatively straightforward journey, minimizing the stress of complex navigation.

**Fayetteville VA Medical Center** (2300 Ramsey St, Fayetteville) is another significant healthcare provider. The drive time from Hope Mills is similar to Cape Fear Valley, roughly 15-20 minutes, utilizing US-401 North and then navigating onto Ramsey Street.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout Fayetteville and Hope Mills. Drive times to these facilities will vary, but generally fall within a 10-25 minute range. Consider the location of your chosen healthcare provider when selecting a residence within Hope Mills to optimize your commute.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides public transportation services. While FAST offers routes within Hope Mills and Fayetteville, relying solely on public transit for arthritis care can be challenging. The system's frequency and coverage may not always align with the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

Route 1, for instance, runs through Hope Mills and connects to downtown Fayetteville. Route 12 also serves Hope Mills. However, these routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers and potentially increasing travel time.

**ADA Accessibility:** FAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. This is a crucial consideration for arthritis sufferers who may have mobility limitations. Verify the specific routes and schedules to ensure they meet your individual needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fayetteville area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Several medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with disabilities or medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey. Researching local medical transport providers in the Fayetteville area, such as **Care Ride** or **First Transit**, is highly recommended. These services may offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility challenges.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Moving to Hope Mills:**

Moving to Hope Mills offers a favorable balance of affordability and proximity to healthcare resources. The relatively short drive times to major medical centers in Fayetteville are a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options necessitate careful consideration.

Arthritis sufferers should prioritize locating housing near US-401 or within easy access to FAST routes. When choosing a healthcare provider, factor in the ease of transportation. Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Evaluating the "Arthritis Score":**

The "Arthritis Score" for Hope Mills, based on the information provided, is moderately positive. While driving offers the most direct and efficient route to healthcare, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport provides valuable alternatives. The ADA-compliant public transit system offers a safety net, though it may not be the ideal solution for all individuals.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When searching for housing, prioritize locations with easy access to US-401 or FAST routes.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Choose healthcare providers in Fayetteville or Hope Mills that are easily accessible by your preferred mode of transportation.
* **Explore transportation options:** Investigate the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments during off-peak traffic hours to minimize travel time.
* **Consider mobility aids:** If needed, plan for the use of mobility aids, such as walkers or wheelchairs, and ensure that your chosen transportation options can accommodate them.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with arthritis can make an informed decision about moving to Hope Mills and ensuring access to the healthcare they need. The key lies in proactive planning and leveraging the available transportation resources to create a comfortable and manageable healthcare journey.