28467, Calabash, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.43 percent of residents in 28467 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 19.24 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Calabash, NC (ZIP Code 28467)

The salty air and tranquil beaches of Calabash, North Carolina, beckon those seeking a slower pace of life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of coastal living must be tempered with a practical understanding of healthcare access. This assessment, an "Asthma Score," analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 28467, offering insights for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike. The goal is to illuminate the ease (or difficulty) of reaching essential medical services, particularly for asthma care. This is a critical consideration when planning a move, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities.

The foundation of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to *transport* oneself to a doctor's office, urgent care facility, or hospital. In Calabash, the primary mode of *transportation* for most residents is the personal vehicle. The town's relatively low population density means public *transportation* options are limited. This reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of understanding drive times, road conditions, and potential traffic bottlenecks.

Navigating to Brunswick County's healthcare facilities from Calabash relies heavily on two major thoroughfares: US-17 and NC-904. US-17, a major coastal highway, provides the primary artery for travel north and south. NC-904, a more local road, offers a direct route west, connecting Calabash to nearby towns and healthcare providers. The drive to the closest urgent care facility, located in Little River, South Carolina, via US-17, is typically a swift 15-20 minute journey, contingent on traffic flow.

For specialized asthma care, the closest pulmonologists and allergists are likely located in the larger towns of Shallotte or Wilmington, North Carolina. Reaching Shallotte, approximately a 25-30 minute drive via NC-179 and US-17, offers access to Brunswick Medical Center and associated specialist practices. Wilmington, a more significant healthcare hub, is about an hour's drive north via US-17. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly during peak traffic hours, which can significantly extend travel times.

Public *transportation* in Calabash presents a significant challenge. Brunswick County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are limited. The system primarily serves the needs of the elderly and disabled. The route information is available on the Brunswick County website. The system’s accessibility features, including ADA compliance, must be carefully evaluated to determine their suitability for individuals with asthma. This is a crucial point for assessing *healthcare access*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Calabash. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times can increase, potentially delaying access to medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of these services is a critical component of the *transportation* landscape.

Medical *transport* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also an option. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door *transportation*, often with trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can be a valuable resource, they are often more expensive than other *transportation* options and require advance booking. Researching and comparing the available medical *transport* brands is essential.

For those *moving to Calabash* with asthma, careful consideration of these *transportation* factors is paramount. The Asthma Score, therefore, is not just about distance; it's about the reliability, affordability, and accessibility of the *transportation* options available. It is about *healthcare access*.

The Asthma Score also considers the potential impact of seasonal variations and environmental factors on *transportation*. During the summer months, increased tourism can lead to heavier traffic, particularly on US-17. Hurricanes and other severe weather events can disrupt *transportation* networks, potentially isolating residents and hindering access to medical care. These factors should be factored into an individual's personal assessment.

The assessment of *healthcare access* should also include an evaluation of the healthcare providers themselves. Researching the availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists is crucial. Inquiring about appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and the provision of telehealth services can further refine the Asthma Score.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Calabash (ZIP code 28467) reveals a mixed picture. While the town's proximity to healthcare facilities in nearby areas offers some advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public *transportation* options present challenges. Individuals with asthma should carefully assess their *transportation* needs, considering drive times, ride-sharing availability, and medical *transport* options. This assessment is critical for those *moving to Calabash* and for current residents seeking to optimize their *healthcare access*. The quality of life in Calabash, while appealing, is inextricably linked to the practicalities of *transportation* and the ability to reach essential medical care.