28340, Fairmont, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.05 percent of residents in 28340 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.21 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340)

The air hangs heavy in Fairmont, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28340), a place where the whispers of the past mingle with the realities of the present. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the simple act of accessing healthcare becomes a significant challenge. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access for residents of Fairmont, offering a comprehensive overview to assist those considering a move or seeking improved care. The focus is on the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, a critical factor in managing this debilitating respiratory illness.

Fairmont, nestled in Robeson County, presents a unique set of transportation hurdles. The town is primarily car-dependent, with limited public transit options. This reliance on personal vehicles immediately impacts the COPD patient, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and mobility limitations. These symptoms can make driving difficult, if not impossible, and significantly complicate the process of attending regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and accessing necessary medications.

The primary routes for transportation within and outside of Fairmont are crucial to understanding healthcare access. Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, runs east of the town, offering a direct route to larger medical facilities in Fayetteville (approximately 45 miles north) and Florence, South Carolina (approximately 60 miles south). However, navigating I-95 can be stressful, especially during peak hours, and the distance poses a significant barrier for those with COPD.

US Highway 74, another important thoroughfare, runs east-west, connecting Fairmont to Wilmington (approximately 90 miles east) and Charlotte (approximately 130 miles west). While offering access to a broader range of healthcare options, these distances further complicate the transportation equation. Shorter drives are available via NC Highway 41, NC Highway 130, and NC Highway 41 alternate, but these are often less direct and can involve navigating rural roads, which may lack adequate shoulders or sidewalks, presenting challenges for those needing to stop for a rest.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the COPD Score. The closest hospital, Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, is about 15 minutes away via NC Highway 41. While seemingly convenient, this still requires the ability to drive or arrange for transportation. The drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a larger facility with specialized pulmonary care, typically takes around 45-60 minutes via I-95, depending on traffic. This extended travel time can exacerbate COPD symptoms and increase the overall burden on the patient.

Public transportation options in Fairmont are limited. The Robeson County Transportation Authority (RCTA) provides demand-response services, but these are primarily designed for general transportation needs and may not be ideally suited for the specific requirements of COPD patients. The RCTA’s services, while available, are not always readily accessible, and scheduling can be a challenge. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is crucial, but the frequency and reliability of these services must be carefully considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This further impacts the financial burden of managing COPD.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, offer a potential solution. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services can offer door-to-door assistance, but their availability and coverage area must be verified. The cost of these services can be substantial, and the need to book in advance can present challenges for those requiring urgent care or experiencing unexpected exacerbations of their COPD symptoms.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Fairmont itself is a crucial consideration. The town has a few primary care physicians and a local clinic. However, specialized pulmonary care is likely to require travel to larger facilities in Lumberton or Fayetteville. The proximity of pharmacies is also essential for timely medication refills.

For individuals considering moving to Fairmont, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, several factors must be carefully evaluated. The availability of reliable transportation, the proximity of specialized medical care, and the affordability of transportation options are all critical components of the COPD Score. Individuals with COPD must proactively assess their transportation needs and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare.

This plan may involve relying on family and friends for rides, utilizing public transportation when available, exploring ride-sharing services, and investigating medical transportation options. It is essential to establish a network of support and to anticipate potential challenges, such as inclement weather or unexpected health crises. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount to managing COPD effectively.

The "COPD Score" for Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340) reflects a complex reality. While the town offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access cannot be overlooked. For individuals with COPD, careful planning and a proactive approach are essential to ensure their well-being. The need for accessible, affordable, and reliable transportation is a constant concern, and the availability of specialized pulmonary care is a critical factor in the overall quality of life for those living with this chronic respiratory illness.