28508, Albertson, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.74 percent of residents in 28508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.01 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28508

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly when grappling with the challenges of arthritis, requires a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This "Arthritis Score" write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 28508 (Albertson, North Carolina), delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare, evaluating the accessibility and practicality of available transportation methods. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture for those seeking to understand the healthcare landscape, especially those considering moving to Albertson.

The primary consideration for residents of 28508 is undoubtedly the automobile. The region, characterized by its rural nature, heavily relies on personal vehicles for transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the availability of major roadways. Accessing healthcare in this area means understanding the arteries that connect Albertson to surrounding towns and cities.

Primary routes include US-117, a major north-south artery, and NC-24, which runs east-west. These highways are the lifelines for residents seeking medical care outside of Albertson. The drive to Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 28508. This journey primarily involves traveling on NC-24.

Further afield, the drive to larger healthcare hubs like New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, roughly 60 miles away, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, largely depending on traffic conditions along US-117 and I-40. This longer commute presents a significant challenge for individuals with arthritis, who may experience increased pain and fatigue during extended car rides.

Public transportation options in 28508 are limited. Duplin County, like many rural areas, lacks an extensive public transit system. While specific bus routes and schedules are subject to change, currently, there are no established fixed-route public transit options directly serving Albertson.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with arthritis. Without a dedicated public transit system, those with mobility limitations face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The lack of public transit, coupled with the reliance on personal vehicles, highlights a critical barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence and demand, particularly in a rural setting. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations. These services, often provided by private companies, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, availability, cost, and the need for advance booking are key considerations.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. The cost of these services can vary significantly depending on the distance traveled and the level of care required.

For individuals with arthritis, the availability of medical transportation is crucial. The ability to access specialized vehicles and assistance can significantly improve their ability to attend medical appointments and receive necessary care. However, the cost and availability of these services remain significant concerns.

Considering the factors of drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, the "Arthritis Score" for 28508 reveals a landscape where healthcare access is significantly impacted by transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport, creates barriers for individuals with arthritis.

Moving to Albertson, therefore, necessitates careful consideration of transportation needs. Individuals with arthritis should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the feasibility of utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The proximity to Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville offers a more accessible option for some, but the longer commutes to larger healthcare facilities in Wilmington or other cities pose significant challenges. Planning for healthcare access in 28508 requires proactive measures, including researching transportation options, budgeting for potential costs, and exploring all available resources.

This "Arthritis Score" emphasizes the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when considering healthcare access in 28508. The challenges faced by individuals with arthritis highlight the need for accessible and affordable transportation solutions to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents. The absence of robust public transit, the dependence on personal vehicles, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services underscore the complexities of navigating healthcare in this rural community.