28432, Clarendon, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.64 percent of residents in 28432 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 11.68 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clarendon, NC (ZIP Code 28432)

Clarendon, North Carolina, a quiet community nestled in Columbus County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing arthritis. The very fabric of daily life, from grocery shopping to accessing specialized medical care, is interwoven with the challenges of transportation. This "Arthritis Score" write-up delves into the realities of navigating healthcare access in ZIP Code 28432, considering the limitations and opportunities faced by those with mobility impairments. This is particularly relevant for anyone *moving to Clarendon*, seeking to understand the practicalities of living with arthritis in this specific locale.

The core of the issue lies in the relative remoteness of Clarendon. While the town itself offers some basic medical services, including a family practice and a pharmacy, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Wilmington, Fayetteville, or Myrtle Beach. This geographical reality directly impacts the "Arthritis Score," influencing the ease and comfort with which residents can receive necessary treatment.

The primary mode of transportation for most Clarendon residents is the personal vehicle. This is largely due to the limited public transit options. The primary arteries for travel are US Highway 74/76, a major east-west corridor, and NC Highway 211, which provides a north-south connection. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can become congested during peak hours, adding to the physical strain of driving, especially for those with arthritis.

For example, a trip to Wilmington, the closest city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes via US-74/76 East. This journey, while manageable, can be taxing. The drive requires navigating highway speeds, managing traffic, and enduring the physical demands of sitting for an extended period. The condition of the roads, including potholes or uneven surfaces, can further exacerbate pain and discomfort.

Fayetteville, offering another option for specialized care, is roughly a 1 hour and 45-minute drive via US-74/76 West and then onto I-95 South. This longer journey presents greater challenges, requiring more endurance and potentially necessitating breaks along the way. The availability of rest stops with accessible facilities is crucial for those with arthritis, and planning the route accordingly is essential.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a popular destination for some medical services, particularly rehabilitation and pain management, is approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute drive via US-74/76 East and then onto SC-9 East. This journey, while shorter than the drive to Fayetteville, still presents its own set of challenges, including potential traffic congestion, especially during tourist season.

Public transportation options are limited in Clarendon and the surrounding areas. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the "Arthritis Score." There is no formal bus service operating directly within Clarendon or offering frequent connections to Wilmington, Fayetteville, or Myrtle Beach. This lack of public *transportation* options places a heavy reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

While there are no fixed-route buses, some counties may offer demand-response services. These services typically require advance booking and may have limited hours of operation. The availability and accessibility of these services vary, and it is essential to inquire directly with Columbus County officials to determine the specific options available and their accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts or ramps, which are crucial for ADA compliance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The reliability of these services is a key factor in the "Arthritis Score." Residents with arthritis may find themselves waiting for extended periods, especially during off-peak hours or when traveling to less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility impairments, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with getting in and out of the vehicle. While these services offer a higher level of comfort and support, they can be expensive, and availability may be limited.

Several medical transportation providers serve the Clarendon area. Companies like First Choice Medical Transport and MedTrans Corporation offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier to *healthcare access* for some residents. Researching and comparing the costs and services of various medical transportation providers is crucial for those with arthritis.

The "Arthritis Score" for Clarendon, NC (28432) reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the local *transportation* infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transportation services offers a more supportive solution, but the cost and availability can be limiting factors.

For individuals considering *moving to Clarendon* with arthritis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. Planning for regular medical appointments and considering the potential for unexpected needs is also crucial.

Furthermore, the availability of accessible parking at medical facilities and the ease of navigating those facilities are critical considerations. The presence of ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features can significantly impact the "Arthritis Score."

In conclusion, navigating *healthcare access* in Clarendon, NC (28432) with arthritis presents a unique set of challenges. The remoteness of the area, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized transportation services all contribute to the complexity of this situation. However, with careful planning, a proactive approach to *transportation*, and a thorough understanding of the available resources, individuals with arthritis can successfully manage their health and maintain a fulfilling life in this rural community.