28318, Autryville, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.49 percent of residents in 28318 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 15.77 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Autryville (ZIP Code 28318)

Autryville, North Carolina, a charming community nestled in Sampson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, explores the landscape of healthcare access within and around ZIP code 28318, focusing on the critical element of transportation. For those considering moving to Autryville, or already residing there, understanding the ease and accessibility of reaching essential medical services is paramount. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, evaluating their feasibility for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other limitations.

The primary concern for COPD patients is timely access to healthcare. Regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and prompt attention during exacerbations are crucial for managing the condition and maintaining quality of life. The ability to navigate the transportation infrastructure efficiently and comfortably directly impacts a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare access landscape in Autryville.

**The Road to Recovery: Navigating by Car**

For many Autryville residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The drive to healthcare facilities in the area, however, requires careful consideration. The closest major healthcare hub is Cape Fear Valley Health System in Fayetteville, approximately 25 miles away. This journey typically involves navigating **Highway 24** east, merging onto **Interstate 95** north, and then utilizing **All American Freeway** to reach the hospital complex. Under normal traffic conditions, this drive takes around 45 minutes.

During peak hours, traffic congestion on **Highway 24** and **Interstate 95** can significantly extend travel times. For individuals with COPD, even a short delay can be problematic, potentially exacerbating breathing difficulties. The condition of the roads themselves is also a factor. While generally well-maintained, potholes or uneven surfaces can cause discomfort and jostling, which can worsen symptoms.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing **Highway 421** and then connecting to **Highway 295**, offer a slightly different approach, but may not always prove faster due to potential traffic and the distance involved. Careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns are essential for individuals with COPD who rely on personal vehicles. Pre-planning routes and allowing ample time for travel are crucial strategies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Autryville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Sampson County Area Transportation System (SCATS) provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system is a vital resource for some residents, but its limitations must be acknowledged.

SCATS operates on a fixed-route system with limited coverage within the Autryville area. The routes do not directly connect to major healthcare facilities in Fayetteville. Passengers would need to arrange for a transfer or a combination of services to reach their appointments. This adds complexity and potential delays to the journey.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SCATS vehicles are equipped with accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of these services and the advance booking requirements can pose challenges for those with COPD, particularly during urgent situations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville area, but their presence in Autryville is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not always a reliable option.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to healthcare facilities. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with entering and exiting the vehicle.

However, medical transportation services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services in Autryville and the surrounding areas should be carefully researched. The cost of transportation must be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "COPD Score" for healthcare access in Autryville, ZIP code 28318, is a multifaceted assessment. It acknowledges the dependence on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential of ride-sharing and medical transportation.

The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of accessible and well-maintained roads, as well as the need for careful route planning to avoid traffic congestion. The limited public transit options underscore the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers potential solutions, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Autryville, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. This includes evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation services, and the potential costs associated with each option.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To enhance healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Autryville, several improvements could be implemented. Increased public transportation routes connecting Autryville to Fayetteville, with direct access to healthcare facilities, would significantly benefit residents. Expanding the availability of ride-sharing services and promoting medical transportation options would also improve access.

Educating residents about available transportation resources and providing financial assistance to cover transportation costs would further improve healthcare access. Community outreach programs to raise awareness about COPD and its management are also essential.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, affordable, and supportive for individuals living with COPD in Autryville. This includes ensuring that transportation is not a barrier to receiving timely and appropriate medical care.