28403, Wilmington, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.89 percent of residents in 28403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.52 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilmington's 28403

The salty air and coastal charm of Wilmington, North Carolina, beckon many, but for individuals managing asthma, the realities of healthcare access demand careful consideration. This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for ZIP Code 28403, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, a crucial factor influencing quality of life and disease management. We delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive guide for those considering moving to Wilmington or seeking improved healthcare access.

The 28403 ZIP Code encompasses a significant portion of Wilmington, including residential areas, commercial districts, and proximity to key healthcare providers. Understanding the ease of reaching these facilities is paramount for asthma sufferers, as timely access to medication, specialist appointments, and emergency care can be life-saving. This score aims to illuminate the transportation landscape, empowering informed decisions regarding healthcare access.

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Wilmington. The major thoroughfare, **US-17 (Market Street)**, runs directly through 28403, providing convenient access to numerous medical offices and **New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC)**, the area's primary hospital. Drive times along Market Street are generally manageable, but peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and afternoon commutes, can significantly increase travel duration.

Another vital route, **US-74/76 (Eastwood Road)**, offers an alternative route to NHRMC and other medical facilities, especially for residents in the eastern portions of 28403. Traffic congestion on Eastwood Road is often less severe than on Market Street, but it can still be impacted by accidents or special events. **Carolina Beach Road (NC-421)** provides access to medical facilities south of the city center, but this route can experience heavy traffic during tourist season.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation is available, although it presents limitations. **Wave Transit**, the local bus system, operates several routes serving 28403. Route 101, for instance, runs along Market Street, offering direct access to NHRMC and various medical offices. Route 201, while not directly serving the hospital, connects to transfer points that facilitate access to medical care.

However, the Wave Transit system has limitations. Service frequency can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially hindering timely healthcare access. Furthermore, the coverage area may not reach all parts of 28403, requiring residents to walk a considerable distance to the nearest bus stop. While Wave Transit is committed to ADA accessibility, the reliance on buses for healthcare access necessitates careful planning and consideration of individual mobility needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating the challenges of relying solely on public transit or driving. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services may fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a critical role in healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. NEMT providers, such as **First Transit** and **Care Ride**, offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot use public transit or drive themselves. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve eligibility requirements based on insurance coverage or medical necessity.

The "Asthma Score" for 28403, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. The area benefits from the presence of major roadways like US-17, US-74/76, and Carolina Beach Road, facilitating relatively easy access to healthcare facilities for those who drive. However, the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, must be considered.

Public transit, while available through Wave Transit, presents challenges due to service frequency, coverage limitations, and the need for careful planning. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative but come with associated costs and potential availability issues. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with mobility limitations, but require pre-planning and eligibility assessment.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 28403 and the surrounding areas is a positive factor. NHRMC, with its comprehensive services, is readily accessible via multiple transportation options. Numerous specialist offices and urgent care clinics are located along Market Street and in other accessible areas. This proximity to healthcare providers significantly enhances the overall "Asthma Score."

When evaluating the "Asthma Score," prospective residents and current inhabitants must consider their individual needs and circumstances. Factors such as the severity of asthma, the frequency of medical appointments, and the availability of a personal vehicle will significantly influence the optimal transportation strategy.

For individuals with severe asthma requiring frequent medical attention, proximity to healthcare facilities and reliable transportation options are paramount. Those with less severe asthma may find public transit or ride-sharing services adequate, while others might prioritize living in areas with easy access to major roadways.

The decision to move to Wilmington or to find new housing within the city should include a thorough assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up provides a framework for this assessment, highlighting the complexities and considerations involved.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for 28403 reflects a mixed bag. While the presence of major roadways and healthcare facilities is advantageous, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-planning for medical transport services create challenges. Careful planning, informed decision-making, and a proactive approach to transportation are essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access for asthma sufferers in this vibrant coastal community. The goal is to make moving to Wilmington a positive experience.