28334, Dunn, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28334, Dunn, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.76 percent of residents in 28334 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital with a distance of 2.06 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Dunn, NC (ZIP Code 28334)

The air hangs heavy in Dunn, North Carolina, a town nestled in the heart of Harnett County. For residents managing asthma, the quality of their commute to healthcare becomes a critical factor in their overall well-being. This Asthma Score analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP code 28334, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities and the challenges faced by individuals seeking timely and reliable care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access, particularly those considering moving to Dunn.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in Dunn stems from its rural nature. While the town boasts a growing population, the infrastructure, particularly concerning public transportation, is limited. This reality significantly impacts the Asthma Score, as reliance on private vehicles is often the only viable option for many. The potential for delays, traffic congestion, and the financial burden of car ownership all contribute to a lower score.

Driving is, for most, the default mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare facilities from various points within 28334 relies heavily on a network of roads and highways. Residents in the eastern portions of the zip code, for example, might utilize NC-210, a state highway, to reach medical offices in Dunn. This route, while generally efficient, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions.

From the western areas, US-421 provides a direct route into Dunn. This major highway offers relatively quick access, but the speed and volume of traffic can be daunting for some. The condition of the road itself, with potential potholes or uneven surfaces, can also contribute to a less-than-ideal commute, particularly for those with respiratory sensitivities. The journey to healthcare facilities, therefore, becomes a calculated risk, influenced by the time of day and the individual's personal tolerance.

The drive-times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the starting point within 28334. Accessing Betsy Johnson Hospital, a key healthcare provider in Dunn, from the center of town typically takes around 5-10 minutes. However, residents living in more remote areas might face drive-times of up to 20-30 minutes, particularly if relying on smaller, less direct roads. This extended travel time can be especially problematic during an asthma exacerbation.

Public transportation options in Dunn are scarce, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. There is no readily available public bus system within the town limits, and the county-wide transportation services are limited in scope and frequency. The absence of reliable public transit forces many individuals to rely on friends, family, or ride-sharing services, adding complexity and potential delays to their healthcare journeys.

The lack of public transportation significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Individuals with asthma often require regular check-ups, medication refills, and emergency care. The absence of a convenient and affordable public transit system can make these essential appointments difficult to attend, potentially leading to missed appointments and delayed treatment. This ultimately contributes to a decline in overall health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on friends and family. However, the availability of these services in Dunn is variable. Ride-sharing fees can also be a financial burden, particularly for those with limited incomes or frequent healthcare needs. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours, is also a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are another potential option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to handle individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, particularly in a rural setting. The wait times for medical transport can also be a significant factor, especially in emergency situations.

The impact of the transportation landscape on the Asthma Score is multifaceted. The reliance on private vehicles exposes individuals to vehicle emissions, which can trigger asthma symptoms. The lack of public transportation limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Dunn, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences and evaluating the availability of alternative transportation options is essential. Families with children who have asthma must consider the ease of access to pediatric specialists and emergency care.

The Asthma Score in 28334 is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The limited public transportation options, the reliance on private vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. This score reflects the challenges faced by individuals with asthma in accessing timely and reliable healthcare.

Improving healthcare access in Dunn requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transport options would significantly improve the Asthma Score. Promoting the use of telehealth services, which allow individuals to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could also mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment in Dunn that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of individuals with asthma. Addressing the transportation barriers is a critical step in achieving this goal. By understanding the current transportation landscape and advocating for improvements, residents can actively contribute to a healthier and more accessible community. The journey to better health begins with the journey to healthcare, and in Dunn, that journey needs to be made easier and more reliable for those who need it most.