27844, Hollister, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 27844, Hollister, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.25 percent of residents in 27844 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nash General Hospital with a distance of 19.60 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27844 (Hollister, NC)

This analysis explores healthcare access for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in ZIP Code 27844, Hollister, North Carolina. We'll evaluate transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive COPD Score, illuminating the challenges and opportunities for residents needing regular healthcare appointments, particularly those considering **moving to Hollister**. This score will reflect the realities of **transportation** limitations and their impact on **healthcare access**.

Hollister, a rural community, presents unique challenges for those managing COPD. The primary hurdle is distance. The nearest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care centers are not within walking distance. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, public transit, or alternative transportation options. The **healthcare access** landscape here is significantly shaped by these geographical constraints.

Driving is the most common mode of transport. From Hollister, the primary route to Roanoke Rapids, where Vidant North Hospital offers some pulmonary services, involves traveling approximately 20 miles via US-158 East. Expect a drive time of around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise from farm equipment, especially during harvest seasons. The journey to larger medical centers in Rocky Mount, such as UNC Health Nash, requires navigating US-301 South, a further 30 miles, with a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes. This adds considerable time and effort for individuals with COPD, who often experience shortness of breath and fatigue.

For residents without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The Halifax County Transit System provides some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and coverage in rural areas like Hollister is sparse. Information regarding specific route numbers, frequency, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is difficult to obtain, making it challenging for individuals with mobility limitations to plan and execute healthcare appointments. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability are questionable. Availability depends on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services cost-prohibitive for regular medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing adds another layer of complexity for individuals managing COPD, who require predictable and timely transportation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance. These services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The cost, coupled with potential waiting times, can create additional stress for patients with COPD. The availability of these services may also be limited, especially during peak demand.

The COPD Score for 27844 reflects these realities. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing uncertainties, and the cost and availability of medical transport services. The score will be lower for individuals without personal vehicles, those with limited mobility, and those relying on public transit or ride-sharing. The score will be higher for those with access to a reliable vehicle and the financial resources to utilize medical transport.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges on **healthcare access** is significant. Missed appointments, delayed treatments, and increased hospital readmissions can result from difficulties getting to and from medical facilities. This underscores the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals with COPD living in or **moving to Hollister**.

Individuals considering **moving to Hollister** with COPD must carefully assess their transportation needs. Factors to consider include the proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of reliable transportation, and the financial implications of each option. Exploring all available resources, including local community services, is crucial.

The COPD Score is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experience of individuals managing a chronic illness in a rural environment. It highlights the need for improved public transit, affordable ride-sharing options, and accessible medical transport services. It emphasizes the importance of community support and advocacy for policies that enhance **healthcare access** for all residents of 27844.

The evaluation of **transportation** options is crucial for managing COPD effectively. The lack of readily available, affordable, and reliable **transportation** options significantly impedes **healthcare access** in this rural setting. Individuals **moving to Hollister** must acknowledge these limitations and proactively plan for their healthcare needs.