28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.62 percent of residents in 28465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Oak Island (ZIP Code 28465)

Planning a move to the charming coastal community of Oak Island, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28465)? While the allure of sun-drenched beaches and a relaxed lifestyle is undeniable, individuals managing asthma must also consider healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up provides a detailed overview of transportation options for reaching medical care, a crucial factor in managing this respiratory condition. We'll analyze drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of healthcare accessibility in this beautiful coastal haven.

The primary consideration for anyone with asthma is prompt access to medical attention during an exacerbation. This means quick and reliable transportation to a doctor's office, urgent care facility, or, in severe cases, the emergency room. Living in Oak Island, surrounded by water, presents unique challenges when it comes to transportation. The island's relatively isolated location necessitates careful planning, especially when a sudden asthma attack strikes.

Driving is the most common method of transportation in Oak Island. The primary route off the island is via the **Oak Island Bridge**, which connects to **NC-133**. Heading north on NC-133, you'll quickly reach **US-74/76**, a major thoroughfare providing access to Wilmington and surrounding areas. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. During peak season or inclement weather, traffic can be significant, potentially delaying crucial medical care.

For routine check-ups and non-emergency situations, the **Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center** in Bolivia, NC, is a frequently utilized healthcare provider. Driving to the hospital from Oak Island typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route involves traveling north on NC-133 to US-74/76 and then east towards Bolivia. The drive is generally straightforward, but be mindful of potential congestion, particularly during rush hour or weekend traffic.

Wilmington, a larger city with a wider range of specialized medical services, is another critical destination. Reaching Wilmington from Oak Island requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This involves traveling north on NC-133, merging onto US-74/76, and then following the signs to your chosen medical facility. The **New Hanover Regional Medical Center**, the largest hospital in the region, is a key destination for emergency care and specialized treatments.

Public transportation options in the Oak Island area are limited. The **Wave Transit** system, serving the greater Wilmington area, does not directly service Oak Island. This absence of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The lack of a readily available public transportation option highlights the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for medical appointments and emergencies.

While public transit options are limited, ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the Oak Island area. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Individuals with asthma should factor in the potential cost and availability of ride-sharing when planning their healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the Oak Island area. These services, such as **First Transit** and **LogistiCare**, often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. They provide door-to-door service, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey to medical facilities. However, eligibility criteria and prior scheduling are typically required.

For those with severe asthma requiring emergency medical attention, the availability of ambulance services is crucial. The **Brunswick County Emergency Services** provides emergency medical services to Oak Island residents. Response times can vary depending on the location on the island and the severity of the emergency. However, the close proximity of the hospital and the ambulance service’s presence ensures rapid access to emergency care.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plays a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma. Healthcare facilities are required to provide reasonable accommodations, such as accessible parking, ramps, and elevators. Furthermore, medical transport services must comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation services.

Moving to Oak Island with asthma requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the island offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, its relative isolation necessitates a proactive approach to transportation planning. Individuals should familiarize themselves with the various transportation options, including driving routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

Planning ahead is essential. Schedule regular medical appointments well in advance and consider the potential for traffic delays. Keep emergency contact information readily available and ensure that your chosen healthcare providers are easily accessible. Always have a readily available asthma action plan, including instructions for managing exacerbations and contacting emergency services.

The "Asthma Score" for Oak Island (28465) is moderate. While the island offers a desirable lifestyle, the limited public transportation options and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing present challenges for individuals with asthma. However, the proximity to healthcare facilities in Bolivia and Wilmington, along with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, mitigates some of these concerns. By proactively planning for transportation and prioritizing healthcare access, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the challenges and enjoy the beauty of Oak Island.