28464, Teachey, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.93 percent of residents in 28464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.24 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Teachey, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28464)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and the promise of rural tranquility in Teachey, North Carolina. For those considering a move to this charming community, especially individuals managing asthma, a crucial aspect to consider is the accessibility of healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 28464, analyzing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. The focus is on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, all vital components of healthcare access.

Teachey, a small town nestled in Duplin County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Navigating the area relies heavily on understanding the road network, which connects residents to healthcare providers in surrounding towns and cities.

The journey to healthcare begins on local roads. From Teachey, residents typically head west on NC-24, a vital artery that connects the town to Warsaw and Kenansville. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. The drive to Warsaw, where Duplin General Hospital is located, is a relatively short one, usually taking around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

For more specialized care, residents often travel further afield. Wilmington, with its comprehensive medical facilities, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, is a significant destination. The most direct route to Wilmington involves taking NC-24 east to I-40. The interstate offers a faster, albeit longer, journey. The drive to Wilmington via this route typically takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavy, especially on weekends and during tourist season.

Another option is to travel south on NC-11, which leads to Jacksonville and Camp Lejeune. This route offers access to Onslow Memorial Hospital, a healthcare facility that may be a viable alternative for some residents. The drive to Jacksonville is roughly an hour, making it a comparable distance to Wilmington, but the traffic patterns differ.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. Duplin County does not have a comprehensive public bus system, and the availability of public transit for healthcare access is severely restricted. This is a significant consideration for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive due to medical conditions.

The nearest regional transit service, the WAVE Transit system, operates in Wilmington. However, the distance from Teachey to Wilmington makes utilizing this service impractical for routine healthcare appointments. The lack of accessible public transit represents a major barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments can be unreliable, particularly for individuals with urgent medical needs. Booking in advance is highly recommended, and even then, there is no guarantee of availability.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations.

One such provider is First Medical Transportation, which serves Duplin County. They offer a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. Another option is MedTrans, which also provides non-emergency medical transportation services in the region. The availability and cost of these services vary, so it is essential to research and compare providers to find the best fit for individual needs.

The availability of medical transportation services is a critical factor in improving healthcare access for individuals with asthma in Teachey. However, it is important to note that these services often require advance booking, and there may be waiting times.

Individuals with asthma require regular medical care, including doctor’s appointments, medication refills, and potentially emergency visits. The ability to access these services efficiently is paramount to managing their condition effectively. The transportation options available in Teachey present both challenges and opportunities.

The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel times. The absence of robust public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services underscore the importance of exploring medical transportation options.

The "Asthma Score" for Teachey, NC (28464) is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the proximity to Warsaw and Duplin General Hospital provides some healthcare access, the need for specialized care often necessitates longer travel times to Wilmington or Jacksonville. The lack of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

Individuals considering a move to Teachey should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Researching medical transportation services, identifying reliable drivers, and establishing a network of support are essential steps in ensuring consistent access to healthcare.

The decision to move to Teachey, while appealing for its rural charm and close-knit community, requires a pragmatic approach to healthcare access. Thoroughly investigating transportation options and understanding the potential challenges is crucial for individuals with asthma. By proactively addressing these considerations, residents can successfully navigate the transportation landscape and maintain their health and well-being.