28396, Wagram, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28396, Wagram, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.31 percent of residents in 28396 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.78 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wagram, NC (ZIP Code 28396)

The crisp air of Wagram, North Carolina, with its rolling hills and quiet charm, might seem idyllic. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare within ZIP code 28396 requires careful consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the ease of navigating transportation to medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all crucial elements impacting healthcare access for those considering moving to this rural community.

The primary challenge in Wagram, as with many rural areas, lies in the distance to specialized medical care. The nearest hospitals and pulmonology specialists are located in larger towns, necessitating reliable transportation. The most direct route often involves driving.

For residents of Wagram, the most convenient highway is likely **US-401**. This major thoroughfare provides a fairly direct path to Laurinburg, approximately 10 miles south. Laurinburg is home to Scotland Memorial Hospital, a critical access hospital offering emergency services and a range of outpatient clinics. The drive along US-401 usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, for those seeking more specialized care, such as a pulmonologist, a trip to Fayetteville, roughly 40 miles northeast, might be necessary. This journey typically involves taking US-401 north and then connecting to **I-95**. This drive could take approximately an hour, but it can be longer during peak traffic times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms for those sensitive to prolonged exposure to vehicle exhaust.

Smaller roads like **NC-79** and **NC-152** offer alternative routes, but these are often winding and less direct, potentially adding to travel time and increasing the risk of encountering unexpected delays. These roads are generally less maintained than the highways, which could present challenges during inclement weather.

Public transportation options in Wagram are limited. Scotland County, where Wagram is located, does not have a dedicated public bus system. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or who may have mobility limitations. This deficiency is a major factor in assessing the Asthma Score, highlighting a significant barrier for those relying on public transportation.

While there is no local bus service, the possibility of utilizing intercity bus services should be explored. Greyhound and other similar companies may offer routes that pass through or near Wagram, providing a potential, albeit less frequent and potentially time-consuming, alternative for transportation to larger cities with more comprehensive healthcare facilities. However, these services often lack ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, which could be a major hurdle for some individuals.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This uncertainty poses a challenge for scheduling medical appointments and ensuring timely access to care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, such as those specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more specialized option. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing transportation to and from appointments. Companies like First Transit or local ambulance services may offer NEMT in the area. However, these services often require prior scheduling and may have associated costs that can be a barrier to healthcare access for some.

The Asthma Score for Wagram, NC (28396) reflects the challenges presented by limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles for individuals managing asthma. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially for specialized care, can be substantial, potentially increasing the risk of exacerbations during travel.

For individuals considering moving to Wagram, careful planning and preparation are essential. Identifying and securing reliable transportation is paramount. This might involve owning a vehicle, arranging for regular rides with family or friends, or exploring the feasibility of medical transportation services. It's also crucial to factor in the potential costs associated with transportation, including fuel, maintenance, and ride-sharing fees.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma should proactively establish relationships with healthcare providers in advance. This includes scheduling regular check-ups, obtaining necessary prescriptions, and developing an asthma action plan that outlines steps to take in case of an emergency. The plan should also include information about local emergency services and the closest medical facilities.

The Asthma Score also emphasizes the importance of advocating for improved healthcare access in rural communities. Supporting initiatives that promote public transportation, expand ride-sharing services, and increase the availability of medical transportation options can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with asthma and other chronic conditions.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access in Wagram. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the limitations in transportation create challenges that require careful consideration and proactive planning for individuals managing asthma. The ability to navigate these transportation hurdles is a crucial component of successful healthcare access, influencing the overall well-being of residents and impacting the decision-making process for those considering moving to Wagram. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor in determining the suitability of Wagram as a place to live for individuals with asthma, impacting their overall healthcare access and quality of life.