28349, Kenansville, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.79 percent of residents in 28349 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 2.08 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kenansville, NC (ZIP Code 28349)

Kenansville, North Carolina, nestled in Duplin County, offers a tranquil pace of life. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of this rural setting can be overshadowed by the complexities of accessing healthcare. This "COPD Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 28349, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Kenansville or already residing there.

The central concern for COPD patients revolves around timely and reliable access to medical appointments, including pulmonary rehabilitation, medication refills, and emergency care. Transportation challenges can significantly impact disease management, potentially leading to exacerbations and reduced quality of life. Therefore, this analysis examines the available transportation infrastructure and services to determine the feasibility of healthcare access for COPD sufferers in this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Kenansville's primary roadways dictate the flow of traffic to and from medical facilities. The town is directly served by US Highway 24, a vital artery connecting it to larger towns and cities. Traveling east on US-24 leads to Jacksonville, a major hub with a concentration of medical services, including Onslow Memorial Hospital. The drive, approximately 45 miles, typically takes about an hour, but can be significantly longer during peak traffic hours or inclement weather.

Heading west on US-24 provides access to Warsaw and ultimately, I-40, a major interstate highway. While I-40 offers faster travel, the initial drive to Warsaw (about 10 miles, a 15-minute drive) is crucial. From Warsaw, patients can access larger medical centers in Wilmington, roughly a 1.5-hour drive, or Raleigh, a 2-hour drive. These longer distances emphasize the need for reliable transportation and careful planning for appointments.

NC Highway 241 serves as a secondary route, providing access to surrounding communities and potentially offering alternative routes to medical facilities. However, these roads are often less maintained than the primary highways, making them less desirable for patients with respiratory issues, especially during adverse weather.

The condition of the roads themselves plays a significant role. Potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate breathing difficulties for COPD patients. Therefore, the quality of road maintenance within and around Kenansville is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Kenansville are extremely limited. Duplin County does not have a dedicated public bus system that provides regular routes within the county. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a robust public transportation system forces residents to rely on alternative modes of transportation, which may be less accessible, less affordable, and less reliable. The lack of ADA-accessible features on any potential transit options further compounds the difficulties for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for COPD patients.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Kenansville, though their availability is often limited compared to larger urban areas. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or in emergencies, can make these services expensive. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services in a rural area is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation, and MedTrans. These services typically provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, making them suitable for individuals with mobility issues. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required.

**Healthcare Access: A Complex Equation:**

The combination of long drive times, limited public transit, and reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport creates a complex equation for healthcare access in Kenansville. The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is crucial.

While Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville provides a range of services, including pulmonary care, the travel time can be a deterrent. Patients may need to consider specialized pulmonary clinics or hospitals in Wilmington or Raleigh, further extending their travel distances.

The availability of home healthcare services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Home visits from nurses and respiratory therapists can provide essential care and reduce the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. However, the availability of these services can vary.

**Moving to Kenansville: Considerations for COPD Patients:**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Kenansville, a thorough assessment of transportation options is paramount. The following factors should be carefully evaluated:

* **Driving Ability:** Can the individual drive safely and comfortably for extended periods?
* **Access to a Vehicle:** Does the individual have a reliable vehicle?
* **Financial Resources:** Are ride-sharing, medical transport, and potential home healthcare services affordable?
* **Support System:** Does the individual have a support network of family or friends who can provide transportation assistance?
* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** What is the distance to pulmonary specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies?

**Conclusion:**

The "COPD Score" for transportation in Kenansville, NC, reveals both challenges and opportunities. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, the lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on driving or specialized services present significant hurdles for COPD patients. Individuals considering moving to Kenansville or already residing there must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure consistent and timely access to essential healthcare services. The ability to navigate these transportation complexities will be critical to managing COPD effectively and maintaining a good quality of life in this charming, yet geographically challenging, community.