28376, Raeford, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28376, Raeford, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.87 percent of residents in 28376 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 5.35 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Raeford, NC (ZIP Code 28376)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and timely access to healthcare is paramount. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services directly impacts quality of life and disease management. This "COPD Score" analysis for Raeford, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28376), examines the transportation landscape, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for those living with COPD, and considering the unique needs of those considering *moving to Raeford*.

Raeford, a town nestled in Hoke County, presents a specific set of transportation dynamics. The area is primarily car-dependent, with limited public transit options. This analysis considers drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive overview of *healthcare access* for COPD patients.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary artery serving Raeford is US-401, a major north-south route. Accessing larger medical facilities in Fayetteville, the closest city with comprehensive healthcare, typically involves driving on US-401. During peak hours, traffic congestion can increase travel times, potentially impacting COPD patients who may experience breathing difficulties during prolonged exertion. The drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a key healthcare provider, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Other essential routes include NC-211, connecting Raeford to the east and west, and NC-210, offering access to nearby communities. These roads are generally less congested than US-401 but may still pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility or those who tire easily. Rural roads, while offering scenic routes, often have lower speed limits and may be less well-maintained, adding to travel time and potentially causing discomfort.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Raeford and Hoke County are limited. The local transportation authority, if one exists, may offer demand-response services, such as dial-a-ride, but these services are typically subject to scheduling constraints and may require advance booking. These services may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus service within Fayetteville, but the routes do not directly serve Raeford. Accessing FAST from Raeford would require a car ride to Fayetteville. This makes public transit a less viable option for most Raeford residents, especially those with COPD, who may find transferring between modes of *transportation* physically demanding.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While FAST aims to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the frequency and accessibility of these buses on specific routes should be verified to ensure suitability for COPD patients. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Fayetteville area, but their availability in Raeford may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours. Reliability is a critical factor for COPD patients, and the unpredictability of ride-sharing availability could pose challenges for scheduled appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies cater to medical transport needs, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related trips. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including help with boarding and disembarking, and may accommodate oxygen tanks and other medical equipment.

Medicaid and Medicare may cover the cost of NEMT services for eligible individuals. However, eligibility criteria and coverage details vary, so it is essential to investigate these options. Researching local medical transport providers and verifying their service areas, pricing, and availability is crucial for ensuring reliable *transportation*.

**Pharmacy and Support Services:**

Accessibility to pharmacies is another critical aspect of COPD management. Raeford has local pharmacies, and chain pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS, are also available. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas and the availability of drive-through services can significantly impact *healthcare access*.

Support services, such as respiratory therapists and support groups, are essential for COPD patients. The availability of these services in Raeford or nearby Fayetteville is important. The ease of access to these services, considering *transportation* limitations, should be considered.

**Overall COPD Score and Considerations for Moving to Raeford:**

The "COPD Score" for Raeford, NC (ZIP Code 28376), reflects a moderate level of *healthcare access*. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges for individuals with COPD. The drive times to Fayetteville's medical facilities, even if manageable, can be stressful.

Ride-sharing services may offer some assistance, but their reliability is uncertain. Medical transportation services provide a more suitable solution, but their availability and coverage should be carefully investigated. The presence of local pharmacies and support services within the community is a positive factor.

For individuals *moving to Raeford* with COPD, a thorough assessment of their *transportation* needs is essential. Consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Is a reliable vehicle available?
* **Medical Transportation:** Research and identify local medical transport providers.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Plan appointments to minimize travel time and potential traffic delays.
* **Support Services:** Locate and assess the accessibility of respiratory therapists and support groups.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Determine the proximity and accessibility of local pharmacies.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the distance to Fayetteville and the availability of emergency services.

Living with COPD in Raeford requires proactive planning and a clear understanding of the *transportation* landscape. While challenges exist, with careful consideration and strategic planning, individuals can successfully navigate the healthcare system and maintain a good quality of life. The "COPD Score" is not a static number but a dynamic evaluation, emphasizing the need for ongoing assessment and adaptation to ensure optimal *healthcare access* in this community.