27886, Tarboro, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 27886, Tarboro, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.43 percent of residents in 27886 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Edgecombe Hospital with a distance of 2.04 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tarboro, NC (ZIP Code 27886)

Considering a move to Tarboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27886) and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Understanding healthcare access and available transportation options is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive COPD Score assessment, focusing on commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to help you evaluate the practicality of healthcare access within this specific area. We'll dissect the transportation landscape, offering insights into navigating your healthcare needs.

The foundation of a COPD Score lies in the ease with which you can access healthcare appointments and treatments. This is especially critical in a rural setting like Tarboro, where transportation options might be limited. We’ll assess the accessibility of key healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pharmacies, considering the specific challenges COPD patients face.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary healthcare hub for Tarboro residents is Vidant Edgecombe Hospital, located at 400 W Wilson St, Tarboro, NC 27886. Driving to this hospital is the benchmark for our assessment. From most residential areas within 27886, the drive is typically straightforward, primarily along US-64 Bypass and US-258. The average drive time, assuming moderate traffic conditions, is generally under 10 minutes.

For specialized care, you may need to travel to larger medical centers in Greenville or Rocky Mount. These trips significantly increase travel time and require careful planning. Traveling to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, accessible via US-64 East, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The same journey, using I-95 North to reach Nash General Hospital in Rocky Mount, is approximately 30-45 minutes.

These longer drive times necessitate considerations beyond just distance. COPD patients may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and anxiety, making extended car rides challenging. Planning for rest stops, ensuring adequate oxygen supply, and having a companion are essential for these longer trips.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Tarboro is limited, impacting healthcare access. The primary provider is Edgecombe County Transit, offering fixed-route and demand-response services. However, these services are not designed for frequent, direct trips to medical facilities.

The fixed-route system operates on a limited schedule and may not align with healthcare appointment times. Demand-response services, requiring advance booking, offer more flexibility but may involve longer wait times. Availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles (ADA features) is a critical factor for COPD patients with mobility issues. While Edgecombe County Transit does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, booking in advance is crucial to ensure availability.

Navigating the public transit system requires careful planning. You must factor in travel time, potential delays, and the need for transfers. The lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities can be a significant barrier for individuals with COPD.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Tarboro, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing fares can also add to the cost of healthcare, making it essential to budget accordingly.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to patients with mobility challenges or medical needs. These services, such as Firstat Nursing Services and Medical Transportation of America, provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped with medical equipment. While offering a more convenient and reliable option, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Pharmacy Access:**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for COPD patients requiring regular medication refills and medical supplies. Tarboro has several pharmacies, including Walgreens and CVS, offering convenient access to prescription medications. These pharmacies also provide services like medication counseling and respiratory equipment sales.

**Assessing the COPD Score:**

Evaluating the transportation options reveals a mixed picture for healthcare access in Tarboro. The relatively short drive to Vidant Edgecombe Hospital is a positive factor. However, the limited public transit options, unpredictable ride-sharing availability, and the need for longer travel times to specialized care facilities pose challenges.

The COPD Score for Tarboro, NC (27886) would be moderate. The availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate area is good, but transportation limitations require careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transport services.

**Recommendations for COPD Patients:**

If you are considering moving to Tarboro, NC, and managing COPD, we recommend the following:

* **Assess your mobility:** Determine your ability to drive or utilize public transportation.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Plan for appointments:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering travel times and potential delays.
* **Establish a support network:** Enlist the help of family, friends, or caregivers for transportation assistance.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** Prioritize housing options closer to healthcare facilities.

Moving to Tarboro requires a realistic assessment of your healthcare transportation needs. By understanding the available options and planning proactively, you can ensure access to the care you need while managing your COPD effectively. Remember to prioritize your health and safety, making informed decisions about your transportation and healthcare access.