28384, Saint Pauls, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28384, Saint Pauls, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.78 percent of residents in 28384 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Saint Pauls, NC (ZIP Code 28384)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and the promise of a slower pace in Saint Pauls, North Carolina. But for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility of this rural landscape is often tempered by the realities of healthcare access. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation options within ZIP code 28384, evaluating the accessibility of medical care for those with respiratory conditions. Understanding these nuances is critical for both residents and those considering moving to Saint Pauls.

The cornerstone of our assessment is the commute time to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facility capable of managing asthma exacerbations: Southeastern Health's Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton. This hospital, a vital hub for healthcare access in the region, is approximately 15 miles away. The primary route from Saint Pauls involves navigating a network of roads.

The most direct route typically involves heading south on NC-20, a two-lane road that meanders through the heart of the town. This stretch, while scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to crucial medical attention. NC-20 then intersects with NC-41, a slightly wider road that continues south towards Lumberton. The final leg of the journey involves a short distance on US-74, a major highway that provides the most direct access to the medical center.

Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions and time of day. Under optimal circumstances, the journey can be completed in approximately 20-25 minutes. However, during rush hour, or in the event of an accident, this commute could easily extend to 35-40 minutes, a significant concern for individuals experiencing an asthma attack.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 28384 are limited. Robeson County does not have a readily available public bus system that directly serves the needs of the residents of Saint Pauls. This lack of public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their medical condition. This is a critical factor when assessing healthcare access.

While public transit is virtually non-existent, ride-sharing services offer a potential alternative. Uber and Lyft operate in the Lumberton area, but their availability in Saint Pauls is less consistent. The reliability of ride-sharing services can be impacted by factors such as driver availability and surge pricing, particularly during times of increased demand or in emergencies. Relying solely on ride-sharing can be a gamble for individuals managing asthma.

Medical transportation services provide a dedicated solution for patients requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation and MedTrans Corporation. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, it is essential to confirm the availability and coverage of these services with the patient's insurance provider.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is an important consideration. Both Uber and Lyft offer options for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs), but their availability in rural areas like Saint Pauls may be limited. Medical transportation providers typically offer a range of accessible vehicles to accommodate patients with varying needs.

For individuals with asthma, the distance to healthcare, coupled with the limited transportation options, presents a significant challenge. While the drive to Southeastern Regional Medical Center is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services can create anxiety and delay access to care during a respiratory emergency.

The "Asthma Score" for transportation in Saint Pauls, NC (28384) is therefore moderate. The availability of a medical facility is within a reasonable distance, but the lack of robust public transportation and the uncertainties associated with ride-sharing services lower the overall score. Those considering moving to Saint Pauls should carefully assess their transportation needs and develop a contingency plan for accessing healthcare.

Furthermore, residents should familiarize themselves with local emergency services and the procedures for calling an ambulance. Knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facilities and pharmacies is also essential. Maintaining a strong relationship with a primary care physician and having a well-defined asthma action plan are critical components of managing asthma in this environment.

The decision to move to Saint Pauls, or any rural area, should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare access challenges. While the charm of the community and the slower pace of life are undeniable, individuals with asthma must prioritize their health and ensure they have reliable transportation options for medical care. This "Asthma Score" write-up aims to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in Saint Pauls.

Finally, it's crucial to advocate for improved healthcare access in the region. Supporting initiatives that promote public transportation, expand ride-sharing services, and increase the availability of medical transportation can help improve the "Asthma Score" and enhance the quality of life for all residents. The journey to better healthcare access is ongoing, and it requires the collective efforts of the community.