27242, Eagle Springs, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27242, Eagle Springs, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.97 percent of residents in 27242 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital with a distance of 12.98 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 27242 (Eagle Springs, NC)

The air hangs heavy in the heart of Moore County, North Carolina, a landscape of whispering pines and rolling hills. For residents of ZIP Code 27242, Eagle Springs, the simple act of breathing, a fundamental human need, can be complicated by asthma. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" – a measure of healthcare access, considering the challenges of transportation in a rural environment. We will explore the available routes to medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Eagle Springs, particularly those managing asthma or other respiratory conditions.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to medical care during an exacerbation. Delays can lead to severe health consequences. The Asthma Score therefore emphasizes the speed and reliability of transportation options to healthcare facilities.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The most direct route to healthcare in this region is often by car. Residents of Eagle Springs typically seek medical attention in nearby towns such as Carthage, Southern Pines, or Pinehurst. The drive to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 20-25 minutes via **NC-211** and **US-15/501**. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

Traveling to Carthage, the county seat, takes about 15-20 minutes, primarily via **NC-211**. Carthage offers smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, potentially providing quicker access for less severe asthma flare-ups.

Southern Pines, also accessible via **US-1**, is roughly a 25-30 minute drive. This town boasts a wider range of medical specialists and facilities, including FirstHealth clinics. The condition of the roads, particularly after inclement weather, can impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Moore County presents a significant challenge. The availability of buses is limited, and their routes may not directly serve the specific needs of asthma patients.

The **Moore County Public Transportation** system offers some routes, but they are primarily designed for general public use and may not provide frequent or direct access to medical facilities from Eagle Springs. Schedules are often limited, especially on weekends and evenings, which could be problematic during an asthma emergency.

Information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on these buses is crucial. Wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations are essential for individuals with mobility limitations, which can sometimes be associated with severe asthma episodes. However, the limited frequency of the routes and the potential for long wait times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many asthma sufferers in 27242.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a more flexible transportation alternative. However, their reliability and availability can vary, particularly in rural areas like Eagle Springs. Surge pricing during peak hours or medical emergencies could also pose a financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing non-emergency medical transport, are another option. Companies such as **First Medical Transportation** and **Care Ride** operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility needs. They are especially valuable for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. However, these services typically require pre-booking, which might not be feasible during a sudden asthma attack.

**The Asthma Score Considerations:**

The Asthma Score for 27242 reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The distance to major healthcare facilities, while not excessive, still requires a significant travel time, which can be critical during an asthma crisis.

The availability of medical transportation services improves the score somewhat, but the need for pre-booking and potential cost considerations must be factored in. The overall score highlights the importance of personal preparedness for asthma sufferers in Eagle Springs.

**Recommendations for Asthma Sufferers in 27242:**

Individuals with asthma considering a move to Eagle Springs should carefully assess their transportation needs. A reliable personal vehicle is highly recommended. Establishing a relationship with a local medical provider, preferably in Carthage or Southern Pines, is also crucial.

Understanding the local road conditions and potential traffic delays is vital. Knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facilities and emergency rooms is paramount.

Familiarizing oneself with medical transportation options and having a plan in place for emergencies is essential.

**Conclusion: Moving to Eagle Springs with Asthma:**

Moving to Eagle Springs, with its serene beauty and close-knit community, offers a desirable lifestyle. However, for individuals with asthma, careful planning and preparation are essential. The Asthma Score highlights the importance of understanding transportation limitations and proactively addressing healthcare access concerns. By prioritizing healthcare access and developing a comprehensive plan, asthma sufferers can successfully navigate the challenges of transportation and thrive in this charming rural environment. The beauty of the landscape should not be overshadowed by the potential difficulties of accessing medical care. Careful consideration and planning will ensure that the move to Eagle Springs is a positive and healthy one.