28341, Faison, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28341, Faison, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.76 percent of residents in 28341 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.04 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Faison, NC (ZIP Code 28341)

The air hangs heavy in Faison, North Carolina, a small town nestled in the heart of Duplin County. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to breathe freely is paramount, and access to timely and reliable healthcare becomes a critical component of daily life. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP code 28341, offering insights for residents and those considering a move to this rural community. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring optimal respiratory health and quality of life.

For those contemplating moving to Faison, the landscape of transportation and healthcare access is a vital consideration. The "COPD Score" attempts to quantify the ease with which individuals with COPD can reach essential medical appointments and services. This score will evaluate drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities present within the community.

The primary artery through Faison is US Highway 117, a vital north-south thoroughfare. Traveling north on US 117 will lead to the larger towns of Goldsboro and Mount Olive, offering a wider array of specialized medical services. Southbound, the highway connects to Warsaw and Wallace, where local clinics and urgent care facilities are available. Drive times on US 117 are generally manageable, with clear traffic flow. However, the impact of weather, such as heavy rain or fog, could significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability to seek timely medical attention.

Another important route is NC Highway 403, which intersects with US 117 in Faison. This road provides access to the smaller communities surrounding Faison and offers alternative routes to Warsaw. Driving on NC 403 is generally less congested than US 117, but the road conditions may vary, and the presence of agricultural traffic could slow travel. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, could pose challenges for those with COPD, making driving a less desirable option.

Public transportation options in Faison are limited. Duplin County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of a formal public transit system creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to secure private transportation. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the "COPD Score," as it restricts mobility for those who rely on alternative means of getting around.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like Faison. While availability is not entirely nonexistent, the wait times and the reliability of these services are questionable. The availability of ride-sharing services is contingent on driver availability and could be significantly impacted by time of day, day of the week, and even weather conditions. This unreliability further complicates healthcare access for individuals with COPD, especially during emergency situations.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance. Several medical transport providers serve Duplin County. These companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including transportation to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services vary. Individuals with COPD may need to rely on these services for regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and other medical needs. Researching and securing a reliable medical transport provider is a key factor in maintaining healthcare access.

The nearest hospitals with comprehensive respiratory care services are located in Goldsboro and Wilmington. The drive to Goldsboro, primarily via US 117, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Wilmington, located further east, is about a 1.5-hour drive. These longer travel times underscore the importance of proactive healthcare management for individuals with COPD, including regular check-ups, medication adherence, and early intervention for respiratory exacerbations.

Healthcare access is not limited to hospitals. Faison and the surrounding areas have local clinics and primary care physicians. These clinics offer routine check-ups, medication management, and other essential services. The availability of these local resources reduces the need for long-distance travel, improving the "COPD Score." However, access to specialized pulmonologists and respiratory therapists may still require travel to larger cities.

The "COPD Score" for Faison, NC (28341) is moderate. While the town offers local healthcare resources, the limited public transportation options, the unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the longer drive times to specialized medical facilities present significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The reliance on private transportation, medical transport services, and proactive healthcare management is crucial for maintaining optimal respiratory health and ensuring timely access to medical care.

Moving to Faison requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with COPD should thoroughly research local healthcare providers, medical transport options, and emergency services before relocating. Planning for potential transportation challenges, including weather-related delays and the availability of backup transportation, is essential. The "COPD Score" highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare management, incorporating both local resources and the ability to access specialized care when needed.

The "COPD Score" is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the individual's specific needs and circumstances. Factors such as the severity of COPD, the need for specialized care, and the availability of family or friends to assist with transportation will influence the overall score. The goal is to empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they have the support they need to live fulfilling lives in Faison.

In conclusion, while Faison offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, individuals with COPD must carefully evaluate the transportation and healthcare access challenges. Proactive planning, the utilization of available resources, and a strong support network are essential for maintaining respiratory health and ensuring a high quality of life. The "COPD Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is a multifaceted issue, and a comprehensive approach is necessary for navigating the complexities of healthcare in rural communities like Faison, NC.