28350, Lakeview, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28350, Lakeview, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 28350 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.72 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28350

The quest for healthcare, particularly when managing a chronic condition like asthma, demands careful consideration of transportation options. This analysis, crafted for prospective residents contemplating a move to Lakeview, ZIP Code 28350, unveils the complexities of accessing medical care, assigning an "Asthma Score" based on commute times and available transportation. This score reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare services, ultimately influencing the quality of life for individuals managing asthma.

Lakeview, nestled within the embrace of Cumberland County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary arteries of movement include Interstate 95 (I-95), the major north-south corridor, and US Highway 401, which offers a more local, though often slower, route. These roadways are crucial for accessing hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, forming the backbone of healthcare access.

Our Asthma Score considers drive times to key medical facilities. The closest major hospital, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, in Fayetteville, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions on I-95 and the subsequent route. This time frame represents a moderate challenge, especially during peak hours. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within the county may offer shorter drive times, but may not provide the comprehensive care needed for asthma management.

Public transportation, in the form of the Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST), offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. While FAST provides routes within Fayetteville, the coverage in Lakeview is sparse. Route 1, which travels along Raeford Road, might offer some limited access, though the frequency of service and extended travel times make it less ideal for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the availability of wheelchair accessibility (ADA compliance) on all routes is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility issues, further impacting the Asthma Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a more flexible option, offering on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, potentially impacting healthcare access. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, needs careful assessment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another avenue. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and MedStar Transportation offer specialized transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options.

The Asthma Score considers the overall accessibility of healthcare. It acknowledges the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the specialized nature of medical transportation. The score is not a static number, but a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of these factors.

For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is paramount. This includes routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency care. The Asthma Score reflects the potential for delays in reaching medical facilities, which can have serious consequences for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

The impact of traffic congestion on I-95 is a significant factor. Rush hour can extend drive times considerably, increasing the risk for individuals needing urgent medical attention. The Asthma Score incorporates an assessment of peak-hour traffic patterns, reflecting the potential for delays.

The availability of pharmacies is also a critical consideration. Access to medication is essential for asthma management. The Asthma Score considers the proximity of pharmacies and the ease of obtaining prescriptions.

Considering the factors, the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 28350 is moderate. While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer alternatives, but their cost and availability must be factored in.

For individuals with severe asthma or those without access to a personal vehicle, the Asthma Score may be lower. Careful planning and reliance on reliable transportation are essential. The proximity of pharmacies and the availability of urgent care facilities can partially offset the challenges of accessing a major hospital.

The Asthma Score underscores the importance of proactive planning. Prospective residents with asthma should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the availability of healthcare services. This includes assessing the feasibility of using public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation.

Moving to Lakeview requires a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the ease of healthcare access, empowering individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their relocation. The Asthma Score serves as a guide, highlighting the importance of transportation in managing a chronic condition.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of Lakeview, regardless of their medical needs, can access the healthcare they require. This analysis provides a starting point for that journey, emphasizing the importance of transportation in the pursuit of health and well-being.