28358, Lumberton, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.50 percent of residents in 28358 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lumberton, NC (ZIP Code 28358)

The crisp air of Lumberton, North Carolina, might seem inviting, but for individuals managing asthma, the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 28358, focusing on healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Lumberton or already residing here, especially those with respiratory sensitivities.

Lumberton, the county seat of Robeson County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a relatively low cost of living, its rural setting necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably directly impacts asthma management, influencing everything from routine check-ups to emergency care. This analysis aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, empowering informed decisions for individuals with asthma.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Personal Vehicle's Perspective**

The primary mode of transportation in Lumberton, as in many rural areas, is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities hinges on the road network. Interstate 95 (I-95) serves as the major artery, providing north-south access. However, it’s crucial to remember that I-95 can experience significant traffic, especially during peak hours and in the event of accidents.

The primary healthcare provider in Lumberton is UNC Health Southeastern (formerly Southeastern Regional Medical Center), located at 300 W. 27th Street. From various residential areas within 28358, the drive time to UNC Health Southeastern can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. The journey typically involves navigating local roads like N. Elm Street, N. Chestnut Street, and N. Pine Street.

For specialists and other healthcare needs, residents might need to travel to larger cities like Fayetteville (approximately 45 minutes to an hour’s drive via I-95 and US-401) or even Raleigh (a drive of about two hours via I-95 and US-64), expanding the transportation considerations. These longer distances increase the potential for delays and require careful planning, especially for individuals with unpredictable asthma symptoms.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Lumberton are limited. Robeson County Area Transit System (RCATS) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are not specifically tailored for healthcare access. While RCATS does offer some routes that pass near UNC Health Southeastern, the frequency of service might not be sufficient for timely medical appointments or emergency situations.

The RCATS system operates with fixed routes, and the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. While RCATS strives to meet ADA requirements, potential riders should verify the accessibility of specific routes and vehicles before relying on the service. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA features can be found on the Robeson County website or by contacting RCATS directly.

The lack of extensive public transportation necessitates careful planning for individuals with asthma. Relying solely on public transit for healthcare access might prove challenging, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergency situations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Lumberton, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, and wait times might be longer than in more densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several companies serve the Lumberton area. These services, often specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare are among the potential providers.

Medical transport services offer a valuable resource for individuals with asthma, especially those with mobility limitations or who require assistance during transport. However, it is essential to research the specific services offered by each provider, including their coverage area, insurance acceptance, and the types of vehicles available.

**Asthma Score Considerations: Assessing the Landscape**

The "Asthma Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Lumberton (28358) is moderate. While UNC Health Southeastern provides local healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer supplemental support, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Lumberton, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliability of personal transportation, and the availability of alternative options like ride-sharing or medical transport should all be factored into the decision-making process.

The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is critical for effective asthma management. In Lumberton, proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape are essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access and a higher quality of life.