27923, Coinjock, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27923, Coinjock, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.68 percent of residents in 27923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 17.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coinjock (ZIP Code 27923)

Coinjock, North Carolina, a tranquil community nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, offers a serene lifestyle. However, for residents managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes transportation options available to those seeking healthcare within and around ZIP code 27923, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Coinjock and needing to manage their asthma.

The primary determinant of the "Asthma Score" is the efficiency and reliability of transportation to medical facilities. Asthma exacerbations can strike unexpectedly, necessitating rapid access to medical care. Factors like distance, traffic, and the availability of alternative transportation methods significantly impact the ability to reach a doctor or hospital quickly. Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care and the ease of obtaining prescription medications also play a vital role in the overall score.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

The most common mode of transportation in Coinjock is personal vehicle. The primary routes to access healthcare facilities involve navigating the local roads and highways. The closest significant medical center is the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, approximately 40 miles south. The journey typically involves taking US-158 East, a major thoroughfare connecting Coinjock to the Outer Banks.

Drive times to Outer Banks Hospital can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Under normal circumstances, the drive takes approximately one hour. However, during the summer months, traffic congestion can extend the travel time considerably, potentially doubling the commute. This extended travel time can be a significant concern for individuals experiencing an asthma attack, where time is of the essence.

Alternatively, residents can travel north on US-158 to access healthcare facilities in Elizabeth City, approximately 30 miles away. This route offers access to Albemarle Hospital, which is closer than the Outer Banks Hospital. The drive time to Elizabeth City typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This option presents a quicker route for routine appointments and less severe asthma symptoms.

Another option for accessing healthcare is to travel west on NC-343, which provides access to medical facilities in the town of South Mills. This route is less traveled than US-158, potentially offering a quicker commute, but the available medical facilities are generally smaller and may not offer the same level of specialized asthma care as the hospitals in Nags Head or Elizabeth City.

**Public Transportation Challenges**

Public transportation options in Coinjock are limited. The primary public transportation provider for the region is the Albemarle Rural Transportation System (ARTS). However, ARTS primarily serves the needs of the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents. The service operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance.

ARTS offers limited service within Coinjock and surrounding areas. The availability of routes and the frequency of service are not conducive to the immediate needs of someone experiencing an asthma attack. Furthermore, the lack of fixed routes and schedules makes it challenging to plan for routine medical appointments. While ARTS vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, the overall accessibility of public transportation for individuals with asthma is severely limited.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Coinjock. The limited population density and the rural nature of the area make it economically unfeasible for these services to operate consistently. This lack of ride-sharing options presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their asthma symptoms.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. However, these services are typically reserved for emergency situations or for individuals with significant mobility limitations. The cost of these services can be substantial, and they may not be readily available for routine medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The "Asthma Score" for Coinjock is moderately impacted by the transportation challenges. While the availability of personal vehicles provides a primary mode of transportation, the long drive times to the nearest hospitals and the limited public transportation options present significant barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals with asthma, the ability to reach a medical facility quickly during an exacerbation is paramount. The extended drive times to the Outer Banks Hospital, particularly during peak tourist seasons, can be a significant concern. The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the challenges associated with public transportation further exacerbate these concerns.

The lack of specialized asthma care facilities in Coinjock adds another layer of complexity. Residents may need to travel to Nags Head or Elizabeth City to access specialized pulmonologists or asthma clinics. This travel requirement further increases the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays in accessing care.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

For individuals considering moving to Coinjock with asthma, careful consideration of the transportation challenges is crucial. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the accessibility of healthcare is a significant factor. Individuals should assess their ability to drive, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

It is recommended that individuals with asthma establish a relationship with a primary care physician in advance of moving to Coinjock. This will allow for proactive management of their asthma and facilitate access to medical care when needed. Additionally, it is advisable to have a well-defined asthma action plan and to ensure that they have a reliable means of transportation to medical facilities.

In conclusion, while Coinjock offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation limitations present challenges for individuals with asthma. The "Asthma Score" is influenced by the drive times to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the lack of ride-sharing services. Careful planning, proactive healthcare management, and a reliable means of transportation are essential for residents with asthma to maintain their health and well-being in Coinjock.