28343, Gibson, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28343, Gibson, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.04 percent of residents in 28343 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Gibson, NC (ZIP Code 28343)

The air hangs heavy in Gibson, North Carolina, a small town nestled in Scotland County. For residents managing asthma, the journey to healthcare access transcends mere distance; it becomes a complex equation factoring in drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative transportation options. Understanding this equation is crucial for anyone considering moving to Gibson, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities. This 'Asthma Score' write-up illuminates the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within ZIP Code 28343.

The primary artery connecting Gibson to the broader healthcare network is US Highway 74, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on US-74, the closest comprehensive healthcare facility is Scotland Memorial Hospital in Laurinburg, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. This drive is generally manageable, but during peak hours, the potential for delays exists, which can be stressful for asthma sufferers. The route is straightforward, providing a relatively smooth transit experience.

Another option involves traveling west on US-74, which leads towards the city of Rockingham. Here, FirstHealth Richmond Memorial Hospital offers another healthcare option. The drive to Rockingham is roughly 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within the city. This drive presents a longer duration of exposure to potential irritants within a vehicle.

State Route 79, a north-south road, offers a secondary route, although its primary function is to connect smaller communities. It does not directly lead to major healthcare facilities, but it can be used to connect to US-74. Using State Route 79 adds an additional layer of complexity to healthcare access, as it requires a transfer to a primary highway. This could increase travel time and introduce additional stressors for individuals with asthma.

Public transportation options in Gibson are limited. The Scotland County Transportation Authority (SCTA) provides demand-response services, which require advance booking and are primarily intended for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential errands. The SCTA does not operate on a fixed-route schedule within the town, making spontaneous trips to the doctor challenging. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles needs to be confirmed in advance, as this is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Gibson, but their reliability can vary. Availability is dependent on driver presence in the area. During times of high demand or inclement weather, wait times can increase, potentially delaying access to urgent medical care. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, provide another avenue for healthcare access. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers may operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transport. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. It is imperative to research and pre-arrange transportation to ensure timely access to medical appointments.

The overall 'Asthma Score' for Gibson, NC, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the proximity of Scotland Memorial Hospital offers a relatively short drive time, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges. Individuals with asthma must carefully plan their transportation to medical appointments, considering factors like traffic, weather conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Gibson, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a key consideration, but the accessibility of transportation is equally important. Potential residents should investigate the availability of medical transportation services, understand the limitations of public transit, and factor in the potential costs of ride-sharing.

The air quality in Gibson should also be considered. While the town is primarily rural, seasonal changes and agricultural practices can impact air quality. Individuals with asthma should monitor air quality reports and take appropriate precautions, such as using air purifiers and avoiding outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality.

In conclusion, navigating healthcare access in Gibson requires a proactive approach. Careful planning, pre-arranged transportation, and a keen awareness of the local transportation landscape are crucial for individuals with asthma. While the town offers a relatively short drive to the nearest hospital, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of alternative transportation options necessitate a comprehensive strategy to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. This 'Asthma Score' aims to provide a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and inform decisions about moving to Gibson.