28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.57 percent of residents in 28543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brynn Marr Hosp with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Tarawa Terrace (ZIP Code 28543)

The salty air and coastal beauty of Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28543), beckon many seeking a life near the ocean. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of this community must be tempered with a practical understanding of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options available to residents of Tarawa Terrace, focusing on commute times, accessibility, and the availability of medical services, all crucial factors influencing the quality of life for those living with respiratory conditions.

The primary consideration for residents of Tarawa Terrace, particularly those with asthma, is the proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities. The closest comprehensive medical center, Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, is a significant factor. The most direct route involves navigating **Lejeune Boulevard**, a major artery that connects Tarawa Terrace to the base. During peak hours, this route can experience considerable congestion, potentially extending travel times and exacerbating asthma symptoms due to increased vehicle emissions.

Driving times to the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune can vary significantly. Under ideal traffic conditions, the journey is typically a brisk 5-10 minute drive. However, during rush hour, which often coincides with medical appointments and school drop-offs, the commute can easily stretch to 20-30 minutes. This variability underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative transportation options, especially for those with severe asthma who may experience difficulty breathing during prolonged periods of exposure to vehicle emissions.

Beyond the Naval Medical Center, other healthcare providers are situated further afield. **Highway 24** provides access to Jacksonville, the largest city in Onslow County, where a wider range of specialists and urgent care facilities can be found. The drive to Jacksonville, depending on the specific destination, can range from 15-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. **Highway 17**, running parallel to the coast, offers access to Wilmington, a larger metropolitan area with more extensive medical resources. However, the commute to Wilmington is significantly longer, typically taking an hour or more, making it a less practical option for routine appointments or urgent care needs.

Public transportation options in Tarawa Terrace and the surrounding areas are limited. The Onslow County Transit System provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and coverage is not comprehensive. While the system aims to offer ADA-accessible vehicles, the limited frequency of service makes it a less viable option for those with urgent medical needs or those requiring frequent appointments. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their medical condition.

The Onslow County Transit System offers routes that touch upon the fringes of Tarawa Terrace, but these routes typically do not directly service the residential areas. Riders would likely need to walk a considerable distance to access a bus stop, which can be challenging for individuals with asthma, especially during periods of high humidity or extreme temperatures. The lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities further complicates the situation, requiring multiple transfers and potentially increasing travel times, adding to the overall burden of accessing medical care.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources or those requiring frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers a degree of flexibility, it may not always be a reliable or affordable solution for healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transport providers, are also available in the area. These services are typically reserved for individuals who require specialized assistance, such as those with mobility limitations or those needing medical supervision during transport. The cost of these services can be substantial, and they are often not covered by standard health insurance plans, making them inaccessible to many residents.

For individuals considering moving to Tarawa Terrace with asthma, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing medical care highlights the need for careful consideration of commute times, traffic patterns, and the potential for delays. The limited public transportation options and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services require careful planning and resourcefulness.

The environmental factors in Tarawa Terrace also play a role in asthma management. The coastal climate, with its high humidity and potential for mold and mildew growth, can trigger asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals. Proximity to military bases and the associated vehicle traffic can contribute to air pollution, further impacting respiratory health. The presence of allergens, such as pollen and dust mites, also needs to be considered.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Tarawa Terrace reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune offers convenient access to primary care and some specialized services, the limited public transportation, the potential for traffic congestion, and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for those with asthma. Careful planning, proactive management of asthma triggers, and a willingness to explore alternative transportation options are crucial for ensuring a high quality of life for individuals with asthma residing in this coastal community.

The decision to relocate to Tarawa Terrace should involve a comprehensive evaluation of individual healthcare needs, transportation options, and environmental factors. Consulting with a healthcare provider, researching local medical resources, and assessing the availability and affordability of transportation services are all essential steps in making an informed decision. Understanding the complexities of healthcare access is paramount for individuals with asthma considering a move to this charming, yet sometimes challenging, coastal community.