28332, Dublin, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28332, Dublin, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.26 percent of residents in 28332 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dublin, NC (ZIP Code 28332)

Considering a move to Dublin, North Carolina, specifically within the 28332 ZIP code? This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on healthcare access and transportation options, critical for individuals managing asthma. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, demands consistent access to medical care and medication, making transportation infrastructure a vital factor in determining quality of life. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

Dublin, a small community nestled in Bladen County, presents unique challenges and opportunities for asthma sufferers. The rural setting often translates to longer travel times to specialized medical facilities. This assessment aims to illuminate the realities of navigating healthcare in this area, empowering prospective residents to make informed decisions. Understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount for ensuring timely access to necessary medical attention.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Dublin revolves around driving. The 28332 ZIP code is predominantly served by several key roadways. Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, provides the most direct route to healthcare facilities located outside of Dublin. However, I-95 can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours and on weekends, potentially delaying access to care.

Traveling to the nearest hospitals, like Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, requires navigating approximately 40-50 miles, translating to a drive time of roughly 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves taking NC-87 North, connecting to I-95 North. Alternatively, traveling south on I-95 to Lumberton and then utilizing NC-41 to reach Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton offers another option, requiring a similar travel time.

Local roads, such as NC-87 and NC-53, provide alternative routes, though they often involve slower speeds and potential for increased travel time due to traffic signals and local traffic. These roads are crucial for accessing local clinics and pharmacies within Dublin and surrounding areas. Residents must consider the potential impact of these travel times on their asthma management, particularly during acute exacerbations.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Dublin are extremely limited. Bladen County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This absence significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This reality presents a major challenge for asthma sufferers who may experience difficulty driving during flare-ups or require frequent medical appointments.

While specific bus routes are not readily available within Dublin, the county may offer limited demand-response transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services, if available, typically require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. The lack of readily accessible public transportation emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access. The absence of reliable public transit necessitates careful consideration for individuals considering moving to Dublin.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville and Lumberton areas, but their availability in Dublin is inconsistent. Their presence is often contingent on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to delays or unavailability, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This uncertainty poses a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may require immediate transportation to a medical facility.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available in Dublin for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily designed for critical medical needs and may not be suitable for routine appointments or medication refills. Exploring the availability of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers is crucial. NEMT services, often offered by private companies or insurance providers, can transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Researching local providers and understanding their coverage area and service offerings is essential.

**Healthcare Access and Asthma Management:**

The availability of healthcare providers in Dublin is a critical factor. Assessing the proximity of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pharmacies is essential for effective asthma management. The presence of a local pharmacy is crucial for timely access to medications, inhalers, and other necessary supplies.

Individuals with asthma should investigate the availability of specialized asthma clinics or respiratory therapists in the area. These professionals can provide comprehensive asthma management plans, including education, medication adjustments, and monitoring of lung function. Furthermore, understanding the local healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of urgent care facilities and emergency rooms, is crucial for managing asthma exacerbations.

**Asthma Score Considerations for Moving to Dublin:**

The "Asthma Score" for Dublin, NC (28332) is influenced by several factors. The primary concern is the reliance on personal transportation for healthcare access. The limited public transit and inconsistent ride-sharing services present significant challenges for individuals without personal vehicles or those experiencing asthma-related mobility issues.

The drive times to hospitals in Fayetteville and Lumberton, while manageable, can be a concern during acute asthma episodes. The availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and pharmacies, is essential for ongoing asthma management. The absence of readily available public transportation underscores the importance of personal vehicle ownership or reliable alternative transportation solutions.

**Recommendations for Asthma Sufferers:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Dublin, NC (28332), careful planning is essential. Prioritize the following:

* **Personal Transportation:** Ensure access to a reliable vehicle or identify a dependable driver.
* **Healthcare Provider Research:** Research the availability and accessibility of local primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pharmacies.
* **Emergency Planning:** Develop a detailed emergency plan, including transportation options to the nearest hospitals and urgent care facilities.
* **Medical Transportation Exploration:** Investigate the availability of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services.
* **Medication Management:** Establish a system for timely medication refills and access to necessary asthma supplies.

Moving to Dublin requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. By carefully considering these factors and developing a comprehensive plan, individuals with asthma can successfully manage their condition and thrive in this rural community. The "Asthma Score" serves as a guide for navigating the complexities of healthcare access in Dublin, empowering prospective residents to make informed decisions.