28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.30 percent of residents in 28454 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Maple Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28454)**

The air hangs heavy in the coastal plains of North Carolina, a humid embrace that can be a blessing or a burden, especially for those managing asthma. For individuals considering a move to Maple Hill (ZIP code 28454), understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," delves into the practicalities of **transportation** to medical facilities, offering a nuanced perspective beyond mere distance.

Maple Hill, a rural community nestled in Pender County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. The nearest major medical hubs are Wilmington and Jacksonville, requiring careful consideration of commute times and available **transportation** options. This analysis prioritizes the realities of getting to doctors' appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care, essential for informed decision-making.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

The primary arteries connecting Maple Hill to healthcare are US Highway 117 and NC Highway 53. Traveling east on US-117 will eventually lead you to Wilmington, a journey of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the city limits.

Westward on NC-53 takes you towards Jacksonville, a slightly shorter drive, typically 25 to 40 minutes. This route, while often less congested than the Wilmington corridor, may involve navigating more rural roads, potentially impacting emergency response times. Both routes offer relatively straightforward access, but weather conditions, especially during hurricane season, can significantly disrupt travel.

Secondary roads like NC-210 and various county roads provide alternative routes, but these are often less direct and may be poorly maintained, especially during inclement weather. These roads can become treacherous with heavy rainfall or icy conditions, posing challenges for those with respiratory conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public **transportation** options in this rural area are limited. The WAVE Transit system, serving Wilmington and New Hanover County, does not extend to Maple Hill. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) operates within Onslow County, but its reach is unlikely to extend far enough to serve residents of Maple Hill.

Consequently, reliance on public **transportation** for **healthcare access** in Maple Hill is not a viable option. The absence of readily available public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington and Jacksonville areas. However, their availability in Maple Hill itself can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning and late evening. Relying on these services for routine appointments requires careful planning and pre-booking.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are available in the area. These services are crucial for individuals with limited mobility or those requiring assistance to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport offer NEMT services, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Options**

The closest medical facilities to Maple Hill are typically primary care physicians and urgent care clinics located in Jacksonville and Wilmington. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington and Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville are the major hospitals serving the area.

Specialty care, including pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists, is primarily concentrated in Wilmington. This necessitates longer travel times and careful consideration of appointment scheduling and potential delays. Access to pharmacies is also a critical factor. Pharmacies are available in Jacksonville and Wilmington, requiring travel.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma, the accessibility of **transportation** and healthcare facilities is paramount. While federal law mandates ADA compliance for public **transportation** and public accommodations, the practical implementation varies.

When considering a move to Maple Hill, it is crucial to assess the ADA compliance of the chosen medical facilities. Inquire about accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and waiting areas. Ensure that the **transportation** options available, including ride-sharing services and medical **transportation**, can accommodate individual needs.

**Moving to Maple Hill: Weighing the Factors**

The "Asthma Score" for Maple Hill reflects a complex picture. While the area offers a peaceful, rural setting, **healthcare access** is heavily reliant on personal vehicles and the availability of ride-sharing services. The lack of public **transportation** and the potential for longer travel times to medical facilities require careful planning.

Individuals considering a move to Maple Hill should meticulously assess their individual needs and **transportation** capabilities. Those with severe asthma or limited mobility may find the lack of readily available public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles challenging.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Assess personal **transportation** needs:** Evaluate the reliability of their vehicle and the ability to drive safely in varying weather conditions.
* **Research medical facilities:** Investigate the proximity, services offered, and ADA compliance of healthcare providers in Wilmington and Jacksonville.
* **Explore medical **transportation** options:** Contact NEMT providers to understand their availability, cost, and service areas.
* **Consider the impact of weather:** Prepare for potential disruptions to **transportation** due to hurricanes and other weather events.

The "Asthma Score" provides a starting point for evaluating **healthcare access** in Maple Hill. By carefully considering the **transportation** challenges and opportunities, individuals can make informed decisions about whether this community aligns with their healthcare needs. Careful planning is vital for a smooth transition to a life in Maple Hill, where the tranquility of the countryside meets the practicalities of **healthcare access**.