27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.31 percent of residents in 27577 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 1.45 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)

The gentle sway of the Neuse River, the scent of Carolina pines, and the warmth of a close-knit community – these are the alluring aspects of Smithfield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27577). However, for individuals managing asthma, the promise of a tranquil life must be tempered with a keen understanding of healthcare access. This write-up serves as an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the complexities of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** for residents, particularly those considering **moving to Smithfield**.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in the accessibility of medical facilities. In Smithfield, the primary healthcare provider is Johnston Health, a well-regarded hospital offering a spectrum of services, including pulmonology and respiratory care. While the proximity of Johnston Health to many Smithfield residents is a significant advantage, the reality of reaching this and other specialized care providers hinges on the available **transportation** infrastructure.

For those with the means, the most common mode of transport is personal vehicle. The primary arteries for navigating Smithfield and accessing healthcare are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 70, and US Highway 301. From various residential pockets within 27577, a drive to Johnston Health generally takes between 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. The drive is generally straightforward, but during peak hours, particularly on US-70, congestion can cause delays, potentially exacerbating anxiety for asthma sufferers needing urgent care.

Beyond Johnston Health, specialized care may necessitate travel to Raleigh or Durham, cities offering a wider array of specialists and advanced medical facilities. The drive to Raleigh, via I-95 and US-70, can range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Durham, accessible via I-95 and I-40, is approximately a 45- to 75-minute drive. These longer drive times underscore the importance of careful planning and consideration of potential delays for individuals with asthma.

Public **transportation** options in Smithfield are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) offers fixed-route bus service, but its coverage within Smithfield is not extensive, and routes may not directly connect to all medical facilities. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be infrequent, and routes may not be optimized for timely **healthcare access**. While JCATS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair accessibility, the overall system may not be the most practical or efficient option for individuals with asthma who require prompt and reliable transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Smithfield. These services provide a more flexible alternative to public **transportation**, offering door-to-door service and the potential for quicker travel times. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer another layer of support. Companies like CareRide and LogistiCare specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as Medicaid or Medicare coverage. While they can be a valuable resource for those with limited mobility or those who cannot drive, the availability and coverage area of these services should be thoroughly researched.

When considering **moving to Smithfield**, individuals with asthma should carefully assess the **transportation** landscape. The proximity of Johnston Health is a major advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles, or the limitations of public **transportation** and ride-sharing, must be factored into the decision-making process.

The Asthma Score for **healthcare access** in Smithfield, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the presence of Johnston Health offers a crucial point of access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative **transportation** options pose challenges. The drive times to specialized care facilities in Raleigh and Durham further complicate the picture.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** options provides additional support, but their reliability and cost must be carefully evaluated. The limited reach of public **transportation** and the potential for traffic delays on key roadways, particularly US-70, should be considered.

Therefore, the Asthma Score for **healthcare access** in Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577) is moderate. While the presence of a local hospital is a significant advantage, the limited availability of reliable and accessible **transportation** options necessitates careful planning and consideration for individuals with asthma. Prospective residents should thoroughly investigate their **transportation** needs and explore all available resources to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. This includes researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing, medical **transportation** services, and the feasibility of utilizing personal vehicles. Careful consideration of these factors will empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure a smoother transition to life in Smithfield.