28371, Parkton, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.94 percent of residents in 28371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Parkton, NC (ZIP Code 28371)

Parkton, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of Robeson County, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The ability to swiftly and reliably access healthcare is paramount for those living with this debilitating respiratory condition. This "COPD Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 28371, evaluating the ease of reaching medical facilities and providing insights for individuals considering a move to Parkton. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Understanding the transportation infrastructure is the first step in assessing healthcare access. Parkton's location, while offering a sense of rural tranquility, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most errands. The primary arteries for travel are Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south corridor, and US Highway 301, which runs parallel to I-95. Within Parkton itself, the primary roads are NC-20 and NC-211.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The closest significant medical center is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, approximately 25 miles north of Parkton. The drive, primarily via I-95 and US-401, typically takes between 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This time can increase significantly during peak hours or in the event of accidents. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are available in nearby towns like Lumberton, approximately 15 miles southeast, accessible via NC-211 and US-74, offering a shorter commute, usually around 20-30 minutes.

Public transportation options in Parkton are limited. Robeson County does not offer a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of readily available public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who are unable to drive due to their COPD symptoms or who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of a robust public transit system directly impacts healthcare access for those most vulnerable.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkton area, but their reliability and availability can be variable. While they offer a potential alternative to driving, wait times can be longer than in more urban areas, and the cost can be a barrier for some individuals. Availability of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot be guaranteed. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transport services play a vital role in ensuring that individuals with COPD can reach their medical appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, offering services for non-emergency medical transportation. These companies typically provide transportation to and from doctor's appointments, dialysis treatments, and other medical facilities. However, the availability of these services, the cost, and the need for advance booking are all factors that must be considered.

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Parkton, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of maintaining a reliable mode of transportation. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net, but it is vital to research and establish relationships with these providers before a medical need arises. Proactive planning is key to ensuring consistent access to healthcare.

Healthcare access is not just about physical proximity to a doctor's office; it's about the ability to overcome the barriers that stand between an individual and the care they need. For individuals with COPD, these barriers can be particularly challenging, impacting their quality of life and overall health outcomes.

The "COPD Score" for Parkton, NC (ZIP Code 28371) is impacted by the limited public transit, reliance on personal vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, the overall picture suggests that healthcare access requires careful planning and proactive measures.

The drive times to the larger medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited public transit options create challenges. Individuals considering a move to Parkton should carefully assess their transportation needs and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing healthcare.

The availability of medical transport services, while helpful, cannot fully compensate for the lack of other transportation options. Individuals with COPD considering a move to Parkton should prioritize factors like proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable transportation, and the availability of medical support services.

The "COPD Score" is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The goal is to empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements.

The assessment of healthcare access in Parkton, NC, highlights the importance of considering the transportation infrastructure. The challenges posed by limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services underscore the need for careful planning and proactive measures.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but it is not a complete solution. Individuals with COPD considering a move to Parkton should prioritize factors like proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable transportation, and the availability of medical support services.

The "COPD Score" is a dynamic assessment that must be considered in the context of individual needs and circumstances. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape and empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements.

The information provided is intended to be a starting point for further research and does not constitute medical or legal advice. It is recommended that individuals consult with their healthcare providers and conduct thorough research to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements.