28371, Parkton, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.94 percent of residents in 28371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 10.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parkton (ZIP Code 28371)

The air in Parkton, North Carolina, offers a respite from the hustle of city life, but for those managing asthma, the journey to healthcare can present unique challenges. This analysis, a bespoke “Asthma Score” assessment, considers the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 28371, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to this tranquil community. We will examine the realities of navigating the roads, public transit, and alternative transportation options to ensure timely and reliable access to vital medical care.

Parkton, nestled in Robeson County, enjoys a rural character. This landscape, while charming, dictates the nature of transportation options. The primary consideration for healthcare access revolves around the ability to reach medical facilities, particularly those equipped to manage asthma exacerbations. The Asthma Score will assess the ease and reliability of reaching these facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions.

The cornerstone of transportation in Parkton is the automobile. The primary arteries for commuting to healthcare facilities are the well-maintained North Carolina Highway 41 and the more rural but equally important US Highway 301. These routes offer direct access to nearby towns like Lumberton and Fayetteville, where the majority of specialized asthma care is available.

Drive times are a critical component of the Asthma Score. To reach the nearest hospital with a dedicated emergency department, Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, the drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Parkton. This drive is generally straightforward, utilizing NC-41 and then transitioning onto NC-211 to reach the hospital.

For specialized asthma care, such as pulmonology appointments or allergy testing, residents often travel to Fayetteville, approximately 45 minutes to an hour away. This journey involves navigating US-301 and then merging onto I-95, a major interstate. While the interstate offers faster travel, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times and add stress for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

Public transportation options in Parkton are limited. Robeson County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve the needs of the general population, with limited routes and infrequent service. The system's focus is on essential services, but it is not necessarily optimized for healthcare access.

The availability of public transit for healthcare access is another factor in the Asthma Score. The current transit system lacks specific routes tailored to medical appointments. While the system offers curb-to-curb service, the need for advance booking and the potential for longer travel times can be a significant barrier for those experiencing acute asthma symptoms. The lack of dedicated medical routes necessitates a more complex and time-consuming journey, impacting the overall score.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. Robeson County’s transit system is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, offering accessible vehicles and services. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for pre-booking can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing asthma-related breathing difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While they provide an alternative to driving, their presence is less consistent in rural areas like Parkton. Ride-sharing services can be particularly valuable for those who cannot drive or who need immediate transportation to a medical facility.

The Asthma Score evaluates the availability of ride-sharing services as a viable option. The fluctuating availability and potential for higher fares during peak hours or emergencies can negatively impact the score. Reliance on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs introduces an element of uncertainty, impacting the overall assessment.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation providers, represent a more specialized solution. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those with asthma. However, they often come with higher costs and may require pre-authorization or insurance coverage.

The Asthma Score considers the availability and accessibility of medical transportation services. The cost, insurance coverage requirements, and potential wait times associated with these services are factored into the assessment. While they offer a reliable option for medical transport, the financial and logistical considerations can impact the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Parkton, the Asthma Score provides critical insights into healthcare access. The score considers all aspects of transportation, from driving times to public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. The score will reflect the overall ease and reliability of reaching healthcare facilities, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions.

The Asthma Score is a dynamic assessment. It is important to note that the availability of transportation options can change over time. New transportation initiatives, expansions of public transit, or the introduction of new ride-sharing services could positively impact the score. Conversely, changes in traffic patterns or the closure of healthcare facilities could negatively affect the score.

Living with asthma in Parkton requires careful planning and awareness. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the rural nature of the area presents challenges in accessing healthcare. The Asthma Score is designed to empower residents and prospective movers to make informed decisions, considering all aspects of transportation and healthcare access.

The overall Asthma Score for ZIP Code 28371 reflects the interplay of these factors. The score will be a holistic assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare access. It is a valuable tool for those living with asthma, offering insights into the realities of healthcare access in Parkton and providing a foundation for informed decision-making. The score will be a living document, reflecting the evolving landscape of transportation and healthcare access in this charming, yet geographically-challenged, community.