28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.99 percent of residents in 28352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.79 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Laurinburg, NC (ZIP Code 28352)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and efficient transportation to healthcare appointments is paramount. This write-up, a COPD Score assessment, analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 28352 (Laurinburg, North Carolina), focusing on healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to Laurinburg.

Laurinburg, a charming town nestled in Scotland County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relatively rural setting influences transportation options, making it crucial to understand the available resources. This score will help assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, ultimately impacting their quality of life.

The primary healthcare provider in Laurinburg is Scotland Health Care System, encompassing Scotland Memorial Hospital. This facility offers a range of specialized services, including pulmonary care, making it a central destination for COPD patients. The distance to this hospital, and other critical medical facilities, serves as the foundation for our drive-time analysis.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The most direct route to Scotland Memorial Hospital from most residential areas within 28352 involves utilizing US-401 and US-74 Business. Traffic flow is generally moderate, but potential delays can occur during peak hours, especially around school zones and commercial areas. The average drive time from central Laurinburg is approximately 5-10 minutes, a significant advantage for residents needing frequent medical attention.

For those residing further from the town center, particularly in more rural areas, drive times increase. Residents in the southern portion of the ZIP code may face a 15-20 minute drive, primarily along US-401. Those in the northern or western areas might utilize NC-79 or NC-130, potentially adding another 5-10 minutes to their commute, depending on their specific location.

Navigating these roads requires careful consideration. While US-401 and US-74 Business are well-maintained, secondary roads may be less so. Weather conditions, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Therefore, patients with COPD must plan their trips accordingly, factoring in potential delays and ensuring they have adequate medication and oxygen supplies.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Laurinburg is limited. Scotland County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are infrequent. This system, while providing a lifeline for some, may not be ideal for COPD patients requiring frequent and timely medical appointments.

The primary route serving Laurinburg is likely to be a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. This service may have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible vehicles, featuring ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the limited availability and potential for delays necessitate careful planning and coordination. COPD patients should contact the Scotland County Transportation Department to understand the specifics of the service, including booking procedures, operating hours, and ADA features.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Laurinburg, but their availability can be inconsistent. Demand, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas, may be low, potentially leading to longer wait times or unavailability. COPD patients relying on ride-sharing must schedule their rides in advance and factor in potential delays.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients with mobility and medical needs.

While these services can be more expensive than other options, they offer greater reliability and peace of mind. COPD patients should research local medical transportation providers, such as First Medical Transportation or MedTrans, to explore their services, pricing, and availability. These companies often have vehicles equipped to handle oxygen tanks and other medical equipment.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Laurinburg:**

For individuals considering moving to Laurinburg with COPD, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. While the town offers a convenient location for accessing Scotland Memorial Hospital, the limitations of public transit and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability require careful consideration.

Potential residents should assess their individual transportation needs, considering their mobility limitations, frequency of medical appointments, and financial resources. Those who can drive or have access to reliable private transportation will likely find healthcare access more manageable.

For those relying on public transit or ride-sharing, thorough planning and advance booking are essential. Exploring medical transportation services can provide a more reliable solution, albeit at a higher cost.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Laurinburg, NC (28352) reveals a mixed bag. While the proximity to Scotland Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability pose challenges. COPD patients in Laurinburg must carefully assess their transportation options, plan their trips meticulously, and consider alternative solutions like medical transportation to ensure reliable healthcare access. This assessment provides a starting point for informed decision-making, particularly for those considering moving to Laurinburg and managing their COPD. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively directly impacts the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in this community.