28385, Salemburg, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28385, Salemburg, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.21 percent of residents in 28385 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.11 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Salemburg, NC (ZIP Code 28385)

Considering a move to Salemburg, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28385) and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly concerning transportation, a critical factor for individuals with respiratory conditions. We'll explore the landscape of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services. Understanding these elements is crucial for maintaining continuity of care and ensuring your health needs are met.

The primary healthcare hub for Salemburg residents is Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton, approximately 10 miles away. This drive, typically taking around 15-20 minutes, is the cornerstone of healthcare access. Traveling requires navigating primarily along NC-24, a well-maintained highway, and then utilizing US-421, a major artery connecting Clinton to surrounding areas. Traffic is generally light, making this commute relatively manageable. However, during peak hours, especially weekday mornings and evenings, slight delays are possible.

Beyond Sampson Regional Medical Center, specialist care may necessitate travel to Fayetteville or even Raleigh. Fayetteville, about 40 miles away, offers a broader range of specialists and advanced medical facilities. The journey involves using NC-24 East to I-95 South, a major interstate highway. Drive times can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Raleigh, approximately 80 miles distant, provides access to premier medical institutions and specialized treatments. The route primarily involves taking NC-24 East to I-40 East. This trip can take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Public transportation options within and around Salemburg are limited. The local transit system, Sampson County Area Transit System (SCATS), offers demand-response service. This means rides must be scheduled in advance, and routes are not fixed. SCATS operates within Sampson County and can provide transportation to medical appointments. However, availability and scheduling flexibility are crucial considerations. SCATS vehicles are ADA-accessible, ensuring individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. Contacting SCATS directly for scheduling and route information is vital.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural locations. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could pose challenges. Booking in advance and having backup plans are essential.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue for healthcare access. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who require assistance getting to and from appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport companies. Researching and contacting these providers is necessary to determine availability, service areas, and associated costs.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to easily access healthcare is paramount. Factors such as the distance to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential for traffic delays significantly impact healthcare access. The COPD Score, in this context, considers these transportation challenges.

The COPD Score for Salemburg, NC (28385) reflects a mixed picture. While Sampson Regional Medical Center is relatively close, offering immediate healthcare access, specialist care often necessitates longer travel times. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services introduce potential barriers.

Considering a move to Salemburg requires careful planning. Individuals with COPD should prioritize assessing their transportation needs. Establishing a reliable transportation plan is critical. This may involve utilizing a combination of personal vehicles, scheduled rides with SCATS, pre-booked ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

Before relocating, contact SCATS to inquire about service availability and scheduling procedures. Research local ride-sharing availability and consider pre-booking rides for appointments. Identify and contact medical transport providers to understand their services and costs.

Furthermore, individuals should discuss their transportation needs with their healthcare providers. They can offer valuable insights and recommendations based on individual medical requirements. Establishing a strong relationship with local healthcare providers is crucial for managing COPD effectively.

The healthcare landscape in Salemburg, while offering a close proximity to Sampson Regional Medical Center, presents transportation challenges. Careful planning, proactive research, and a willingness to utilize multiple transportation options are essential for ensuring seamless healthcare access.

The COPD Score for Salemburg, NC (28385) highlights the importance of prioritizing transportation planning. While the community offers a peaceful environment, individuals with COPD must proactively address the transportation aspect of healthcare access. This involves exploring all available options, from personal vehicles to medical transport services.

The journey to better health in Salemburg begins with a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape. By proactively addressing these factors, individuals with COPD can ensure they receive the necessary care and support to manage their condition effectively.