27574, Roxboro, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.94 percent of residents in 27574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.63 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roxboro, NC (ZIP Code 27574)

The crisp air of Roxboro, North Carolina, nestled in the Piedmont region, might seem idyllic. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of **healthcare access** is intricately tied to **transportation** challenges. This write-up explores the complexities of reaching medical care from ZIP code 27574, offering an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to Roxboro** or seeking to understand the practicalities of managing asthma in this area.

The Asthma Score, in this context, isn’t a medical metric. Instead, it reflects the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare, factoring in the limitations posed by **transportation** options. We’ll delve into the realities of navigating the roads, the availability of public transit, and the potential of ride-sharing services to provide a lifeline for those needing regular medical attention.

**Drive Times and Road Navigation**

For residents of Roxboro, driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. The closest significant medical facilities are located in Durham, approximately 50 miles away. The primary route involves navigating US-501 South, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

A journey to Duke University Hospital in Durham, a leading asthma care provider, typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, barring any unexpected delays. Another option is UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, which is slightly further, extending the drive time to around 1 hour and 30 minutes. These estimates are based on normal traffic conditions. The absence of a dedicated high-speed route means that unexpected accidents or heavy traffic can significantly impact travel times, creating anxiety for those with asthma.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing NC-57 South or NC-49 South, offer potential detours, but these roads are often less direct and may involve navigating winding country roads, which can be challenging, particularly during inclement weather. The condition of these roads also contributes to the overall travel experience.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The public transit landscape in Roxboro is limited. The Person County Transit system provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for medical **transportation**. The system primarily focuses on local travel within Person County, and its connections to larger cities like Durham are infrequent and indirect.

The absence of a direct, reliable public transit route to major medical centers in Durham or Chapel Hill poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals with asthma who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The limited frequency of services also necessitates careful planning and extended travel times, potentially exacerbating the stress associated with managing a chronic condition.

The Person County Transit does not have ADA-accessible buses. This lack of accessibility further compounds the challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance. The transit system's limitations significantly impact the Asthma Score, highlighting the need for alternative **transportation** solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Roxboro, but their reliability and affordability can be unpredictable. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can fluctuate significantly, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening, when medical appointments are often scheduled.

The cost of ride-sharing to Durham or Chapel Hill can also be substantial, particularly for regular appointments. This financial burden can be a significant deterrent for individuals with limited incomes or those who require frequent medical care.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized medical **transportation** providers, offer a more reliable option for individuals who require assistance or have specific medical needs. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and may require prior arrangements. The availability of these services can also be limited, especially during periods of high demand.

**The Asthma Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the Asthma Score for residents of ZIP code 27574 is moderate to low. The reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with asthma.

The long drive times to major medical centers, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can be stressful and inconvenient. The lack of reliable public transit options disproportionately affects those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the **transportation** landscape.

For those **moving to Roxboro** with asthma, careful consideration of these **transportation** challenges is crucial. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local medical **transportation** providers, exploring carpooling options, and understanding the limitations of public transit, is essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the Asthma Score in Roxboro requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in expanded public transit services, including direct routes to major medical centers and ADA-accessible vehicles, would significantly enhance **healthcare access**.

Encouraging the development of partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could create more affordable and reliable **transportation** options. Promoting awareness of medical **transportation** services and providing financial assistance to those who need it would also be beneficial.

Finally, advocating for improved road infrastructure, including the potential for expanding US-501 South or improving traffic flow, would reduce drive times and improve the overall **transportation** experience. By addressing these challenges, Roxboro can improve its Asthma Score and create a more supportive environment for individuals managing this chronic condition.