28376, Raeford, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28376, Raeford, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.87 percent of residents in 28376 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 5.35 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Raeford, NC (ZIP Code 28376)

Raeford, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of Hoke County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing arthritis. The “Arthritis Score” for this region considers the multifaceted challenges of accessing healthcare, focusing on transportation options and their impact on individuals with mobility limitations. This score aims to provide a comprehensive overview for those considering a move to Raeford or seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access within the 28376 ZIP code.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to get there. In Raeford, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. This reliance highlights the importance of considering drive times, road conditions, and parking availability when evaluating the accessibility of medical appointments. For someone with arthritis, the physical demands of driving, navigating parking lots, and walking to the clinic can significantly impact their quality of life.

The most direct route to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas typically involves driving on US Highway 401, the main artery through Raeford. This highway provides access to Fayetteville, offering a wider array of specialized medical services. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend travel times and exacerbate pain for individuals with arthritis.

Alternatively, State Road 211 offers a less-traveled route, but it might involve navigating more rural roads with potentially uneven surfaces, a challenge for those with mobility issues. The drive to Fayetteville from Raeford, via either route, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

Public transportation options are limited in Raeford. There is no dedicated public bus system within the town itself. However, the Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a regional service that might offer some limited connectivity. CARTA, serving Fayetteville and Cumberland County, does offer ADA-accessible buses, a crucial consideration for individuals with arthritis.

To utilize CARTA, a resident of Raeford would likely need to arrange transportation to a CARTA route, adding another layer of complexity. The frequency of routes and the travel time to Fayetteville via public transit can be significantly longer than driving, potentially impacting the ability to attend appointments on time and manage pain levels.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Raeford, offering an alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The cost of ride-sharing can add up, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions requiring multiple visits to medical facilities. Furthermore, the accessibility of ride-sharing vehicles, such as the availability of vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, is not always guaranteed.

Medical transport services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Angel Medical Transport operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and specialized vehicles, catering to the needs of individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking.

The availability of medical transport services can be a significant advantage for those with arthritis, providing a safe and reliable means of accessing healthcare. However, the cost and the need for advance planning must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

Healthcare access is about more than just the distance to a doctor's office. It's about the entire experience, from leaving home to returning. The condition of roads, the availability of parking, and the physical demands of navigating a medical facility all play a role. For someone with arthritis, these factors can significantly impact their ability to attend appointments, manage their pain, and maintain their independence.

When considering moving to Raeford, individuals with arthritis should carefully assess their transportation needs. They should consider the frequency of their medical appointments, the distance to healthcare providers, and their ability to drive or utilize other transportation options.

The availability of specialized medical services in Fayetteville, while accessible by car, highlights the importance of careful planning. The drive times, traffic conditions, and parking availability should all be considered. The limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services add another layer of complexity.

The "Arthritis Score" for Raeford (ZIP code 28376) reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. While the town offers a close-knit community and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present significant hurdles for individuals with arthritis.

The decision to move to Raeford requires a thorough evaluation of these factors. Individuals should consider the availability of specialized medical services, the accessibility of transportation options, and the potential impact on their quality of life. A proactive approach, including researching transportation options, identifying accessible medical facilities, and planning for potential mobility limitations, is crucial.

Ultimately, the "Arthritis Score" for Raeford is not a single number but a complex equation. It requires weighing the benefits of a smaller town with the challenges of limited transportation infrastructure. For those with arthritis, a careful assessment of these factors is essential for making an informed decision about their healthcare access and overall well-being.