27542, Kenly, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27542, Kenly, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.07 percent of residents in 27542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 15.28 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kenly, NC (ZIP Code 27542)

The crisp air of Kenly, North Carolina, a town nestled in the heart of Johnston County, holds a certain charm. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting demands careful consideration. A crucial aspect of life in Kenly, and a significant factor in the quality of life for asthmatics, is the ease of **transportation** to and from healthcare providers. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the realities of **healthcare access** in ZIP code 27542, offering a detailed analysis of the available options and their potential impact on individuals with respiratory sensitivities. This is particularly relevant for those **moving to Kenly**, as understanding these nuances is vital for a smooth transition.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Kenly revolves around its rural nature. While the town itself offers some local services, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Wilson or Raleigh. This reliance on **transportation** creates a vulnerability for asthmatics, who may require frequent doctor visits, emergency room trips, or specialized treatments.

The most common mode of travel is, of course, the personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare connecting Kenly to the outside world is Interstate 95 (I-95). Access to I-95 is relatively straightforward, with several on-ramps providing easy access to both north and southbound lanes. This is a critical advantage, as I-95 offers a direct route to larger cities with more comprehensive medical facilities.

However, the reliance on a personal vehicle introduces several considerations. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly increase travel times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. Furthermore, the financial burden of car ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, can be a significant strain, especially for those with chronic health conditions.

The secondary highway is US-301, which runs parallel to I-95. US-301 offers an alternative route, particularly for destinations within Johnston County or to the south. However, US-301 often experiences more traffic than I-95, and the presence of traffic lights and intersections can further extend travel times.

Smaller, local roads, such as NC-222 and various county roads, provide access to Kenly's immediate surroundings. While these roads may be suitable for shorter trips within the town or to nearby communities, they are generally not recommended for longer journeys to healthcare facilities due to their slower speeds and potential for delays.

Public **transportation** options in Kenly are limited. Johnston County does offer a public transit system, but its services are primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The availability of fixed-route buses or accessible vehicles for general use is extremely limited.

The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. While JCATS strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, the limited scope of its operations and the need for advance booking can pose significant challenges for individuals with unpredictable healthcare needs, such as asthma exacerbations.

The lack of robust public **transportation** options underscores the importance of alternative solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kenly area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Ride-sharing fares can fluctuate based on demand, and the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, which specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and various local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is another critical factor. While federal regulations mandate that healthcare providers adhere to ADA standards, the practical implementation of these standards can vary. Individuals with asthma should inquire about the accessibility features of their chosen healthcare providers, including the availability of ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms.

The location of healthcare facilities relative to Kenly is also a key consideration. The closest hospitals with emergency rooms are located in Wilson and Smithfield. Wilson Medical Center, located approximately 15 miles from Kenly, offers a range of medical services, including pulmonology and allergy specialists. Johnston Health, with its main campus in Smithfield (approximately 20 miles from Kenly), provides a similar range of services.

Specialized care, such as advanced pulmonary testing or treatment for severe asthma, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Raleigh. Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center, both located in Raleigh, offer comprehensive respiratory care, but the commute from Kenly can take up to an hour or more, depending on traffic.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Kenly, NC (ZIP code 27542) reflects a mixed bag. While the town offers a pleasant environment, the limited access to robust public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-booked services for healthcare access presents challenges for asthmatics. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some relief, but these options can be subject to cost and availability constraints. The proximity to hospitals in Wilson and Smithfield, and the eventual need to travel to Raleigh, adds to the complexity.

For individuals **moving to Kenly** with asthma, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and a proactive approach to **transportation** planning are essential. This includes identifying preferred healthcare providers, researching the availability of **transportation** options, and budgeting for the associated costs. Understanding the limitations of the local infrastructure and developing a contingency plan for emergencies is crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. The quality of life in Kenly can be enhanced by careful consideration of these factors.