27583, Timberlake, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27583, Timberlake, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.72 percent of residents in 27583 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Timberlake, NC (ZIP Code 27583)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Timberlake, North Carolina, offer a picturesque setting for those seeking a quieter life. But for individuals managing asthma, a crucial aspect of relocating to this charming community is understanding healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" assesses the transportation landscape, weighing the ease of reaching medical facilities, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of getting to appointments and accessing essential care within and around ZIP code 27583.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers revolves around timely access to medical attention during flare-ups. This score prioritizes the reliability and speed of transportation options, factoring in potential delays due to traffic, weather, and the availability of services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of the transportation infrastructure impacting healthcare access.

Driving is, undoubtedly, the most common mode of transportation in Timberlake. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for daily commutes and medical appointments. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **Highway 501**, which provides a direct route to nearby towns and cities offering specialized medical services. The speed of travel on this highway is generally good, but traffic can become congested during peak hours, particularly around the Durham area.

Another significant road is **Highway 157**, connecting Timberlake to Roxboro and other communities to the north. This road offers alternative routes to healthcare facilities, though drive times may vary depending on the destination. **State Road 1100** and other smaller county roads provide local access and connections to the main highways. Understanding the nuances of these routes is essential for planning healthcare journeys.

For routine appointments at the closest primary care facilities, the drive times are relatively manageable. However, for specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, the distance increases. A drive to Duke University Hospital in Durham, for instance, via Highway 501, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This is a significant consideration during an asthma exacerbation.

Public transportation options are limited in Timberlake. The GoTriangle system, which serves the greater Triangle area, does not directly service the town. This lack of public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This limitation significantly impacts the Asthma Score, as it restricts healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

The nearest GoTriangle routes are accessible in Durham, requiring a drive to a park-and-ride location. From there, buses offer access to various medical facilities. However, the added travel time and the need for a transfer can be burdensome, particularly during an asthma attack. The lack of direct public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the need for alternative solutions.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on GoTriangle buses is generally good, with features like ramps, lifts, and priority seating. However, the initial drive to the bus stop, the potential for long wait times, and the overall travel duration can still present challenges for individuals with asthma. The lack of convenient public transit options is a major drawback for those considering moving to Timberlake.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Timberlake, offering a potential solution for those without personal transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The reliability of ride-sharing services during an asthma emergency is also a concern. While they offer a quicker alternative to public transit, the response time and availability cannot be guaranteed. This uncertainty necessitates the exploration of more specialized medical transportation options.

Medical transport services are available in the area, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs to appointments and facilities. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required.

Ambulance services are, of course, reserved for emergencies. NEMT providers offer a more cost-effective option for non-emergency appointments. Some NEMT providers may offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with respiratory conditions. The availability and responsiveness of these services are crucial factors in the Asthma Score.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation, CareRide, and others. Researching the specific services offered by these providers, including their coverage area, insurance acceptance, and the availability of specialized equipment, is critical for asthma sufferers.

The "Asthma Score" for Timberlake, NC (27583) is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. While the drive times to primary care facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for those with asthma. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some alternatives, but these options come with their own limitations in terms of cost, reliability, and accessibility.

For individuals considering moving to Timberlake with asthma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Planning for potential emergencies, identifying reliable transportation alternatives, and understanding the cost implications of various options are essential steps. The proximity to Durham and the availability of specialized medical care are positive factors, but the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration.

The "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access. Residents should familiarize themselves with the local transportation landscape, research medical transport providers, and develop contingency plans for asthma flare-ups. This proactive approach will ensure that individuals with asthma can safely and efficiently access the medical care they need, allowing them to enjoy the peaceful lifestyle that Timberlake offers.