28553, Marshallberg, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28553, Marshallberg, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.64 percent of residents in 28553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 34.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 13.56 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marshallberg, NC (ZIP Code 28553)

The salty air of Marshallberg, North Carolina, a charming coastal community, offers a unique lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of **healthcare access** can be significantly more complex than the idyllic scenery suggests. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP code 28553, considering the critical need for timely medical attention. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Marshallberg**, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health needs.

The primary concern for asthmatics in Marshallberg is the distance to comprehensive medical facilities. The nearest hospital, Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, is approximately 20 miles away. Driving is the most common mode of transport. The journey typically involves navigating the scenic but sometimes congested roads.

From Marshallberg, the most direct route to Morehead City is via Harkers Island Road, which merges onto NC-70 East. This stretch is generally well-maintained, but traffic can become heavy during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends and holidays. Expect drive times to fluctuate. Under ideal conditions, the trip takes around 30 minutes. However, during periods of increased traffic, this can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour. This prolonged travel time can be critical during an asthma exacerbation, potentially delaying life-saving treatment.

Alternative routes exist, though they add distance and complexity. One could take the more rural NC-24 East, which eventually intersects with NC-70. This route offers a less direct path, potentially adding 10-15 minutes to the overall travel time. While less prone to heavy traffic, the winding roads and limited lighting at night could pose challenges for drivers and patients.

Public **transportation** options in Carteret County are limited. The Carteret County Transportation System (CCTS) operates a demand-response service. This means rides must be scheduled in advance, which is problematic during a sudden asthma attack. The CCTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking make it an unreliable option for urgent medical needs. Details on routes and schedules are available through the Carteret County government website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Morehead City and surrounding areas, but their presence in Marshallberg is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can be sparse, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is risky due to potential wait times and driver availability. The cost of a ride-share can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport, are available. Companies like MedTransport and First Medical Transport operate in the area. These services offer scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. While they provide a more reliable option than ride-sharing, they still require advance booking and are not suitable for emergency situations. Furthermore, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

The proximity to pharmacies is another crucial factor. Marshallberg has limited pharmacy options within the immediate vicinity. Residents typically need to travel to Morehead City or Beaufort for prescription refills and over-the-counter medications. This adds another layer of **transportation** complexity, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those reliant on public **transportation**.

The "Asthma Score" for Marshallberg, NC (28553) would, therefore, be relatively low. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public **transportation** and inconsistent ride-sharing options, creates significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The potential for prolonged drive times to the nearest hospital, particularly during peak traffic or emergencies, is a major concern. The lack of readily available, reliable, and affordable **transportation** options can delay critical medical care, impacting the overall quality of life.

Individuals considering **moving to Marshallberg** with asthma must carefully evaluate these **transportation** limitations. They should consider the following: proximity to healthcare providers, the reliability of personal vehicles, the availability of family or friends to provide transport, and the potential costs associated with medical **transportation** services.

Moreover, the local community and healthcare providers could explore strategies to improve **healthcare access** for asthmatics. This might include advocating for expanded public **transportation** services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure greater availability, and exploring the feasibility of a local pharmacy or clinic. Telehealth services, while not a substitute for in-person care, could provide some relief, especially for routine follow-up appointments.

In conclusion, while Marshallberg offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the existing **transportation** infrastructure presents significant hurdles for individuals managing asthma. A thorough understanding of these limitations is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Marshallberg** and for healthcare providers seeking to improve patient outcomes in this unique coastal community. The "Asthma Score" reflects the reality of limited **healthcare access** and underscores the importance of proactive planning and community-based solutions to ensure the well-being of asthmatics in ZIP code 28553.