28693, Warrensville, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 28693, Warrensville, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.63 percent of residents in 28693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alleghany Memorial Hospital with a distance of 23.81 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warrensville, NC (ZIP Code 28693)

The crisp mountain air of Warrensville, North Carolina, might seem idyllic, but for individuals managing asthma, proximity to healthcare is a critical consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access within ZIP Code 28693, offering prospective residents a practical guide to navigating medical appointments and emergencies. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, all factors influencing the ease and efficiency of healthcare access.

The primary challenge for residents of Warrensville lies in its rural location. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are situated in surrounding towns, demanding reliance on personal vehicles for most medical needs. Assessing drive times is therefore paramount. The primary route to reach the nearest hospital, **Wilkes Medical Center** in North Wilkesboro, is via **NC-16** South. Expect a drive time of approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey traverses winding mountain roads, which can be particularly treacherous during inclement weather.

Another crucial healthcare destination is **Ashe Memorial Hospital** in Jefferson. The route involves taking **NC-16** North and then connecting to **US-221** South. This trip typically takes around 30-40 minutes. This route, while shorter in distance, also navigates mountainous terrain, necessitating careful driving, especially during the winter months.

For specialized care, residents might need to travel further. **Wake Forest Baptist Health - Wilkes Medical Center** in North Wilkesboro offers a range of specialist services. The drive, again primarily via **NC-16**, mirrors the journey to Wilkes Medical Center, maintaining a similar travel duration.

Public transportation options in Warrensville are limited. The area lacks a dedicated public bus system. This absence significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with limited mobility or those unable to drive due to their asthma condition. The absence of accessible public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability are variable. Residents should not rely solely on these services for critical medical appointments or emergency situations. Response times can be unpredictable, and the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed.

Medical transport services offer a vital lifeline for individuals requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers serve the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services are crucial for patients unable to drive themselves or utilize ride-sharing.

**Ashe County EMS** provides emergency ambulance services, ensuring rapid response in critical situations. The response time, however, can be affected by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital.

NEMT services, such as **Care Ride** and **First Transit**, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have limitations on the distance they cover. They are invaluable for individuals who need assistance with transportation but do not require an ambulance.

For individuals considering moving to Warrensville with asthma, a careful evaluation of these transportation factors is essential. The lack of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services necessitate proactive planning.

The ability to drive safely, especially in challenging weather conditions, is paramount. Understanding the potential drive times to healthcare facilities and factoring in potential delays due to traffic or weather is crucial. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services should be investigated.

Furthermore, prospective residents should research the availability and cost of NEMT services and establish a relationship with a reliable provider. This proactive approach is critical to ensuring timely access to medical care and managing asthma effectively.

The Asthma Score for Warrensville, considering the transportation challenges, is moderate. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers to access. The availability of ride-sharing services and NEMT providers mitigates some of these challenges, but careful planning and preparation are essential for individuals managing asthma.

The decision to move to Warrensville should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation limitations. Proactive planning, including establishing reliable transportation options and understanding potential delays, is critical for ensuring timely access to healthcare and effectively managing asthma. This proactive approach will enhance the quality of life and provide peace of mind for individuals choosing to make Warrensville their home.