28398, Warsaw, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.91 percent of residents in 28398 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.37 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398)

The air hangs heavy in the humid embrace of Eastern North Carolina, a region where the insidious tendrils of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can take root. For those battling this debilitating illness, the simple act of accessing healthcare becomes a monumental challenge, intertwined with the complexities of transportation. This write-up, a COPD Score analysis, delves into the transportation landscape of Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398), a community nestled within Duplin County, evaluating the ease and accessibility of healthcare for individuals living with COPD. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture for anyone considering moving to Warsaw, particularly those managing respiratory ailments.

The very fabric of Warsaw’s transportation network is woven with the threads of rurality. The primary arteries are US Highway 117 and NC Highway 24, the lifelines connecting Warsaw to the wider world. These roadways, while offering relatively direct routes, are often subject to the vagaries of weather and the occasional traffic snarl. The drive to the nearest major healthcare facilities, such as Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville (approximately 10 miles away) and New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington (around 50 miles), becomes a significant consideration for individuals with COPD.

The drive to Kenansville, a journey that might seem short on a map, can easily take 20-30 minutes, factoring in potential delays. The route primarily follows US-117, a two-lane highway that, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours. The trip to Wilmington, a much longer haul, can take upwards of an hour and a half, a considerable burden for someone struggling to breathe. This journey involves a combination of US-117 and NC-24, and the potential for increased travel time due to traffic or weather conditions becomes a critical factor.

Public transportation options in Warsaw are limited. Duplin County does not have a dedicated public transit system, thus making healthcare access difficult for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This stark reality underscores the challenges faced by many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations. The absence of a robust public transit system dramatically reduces healthcare access for those living with COPD.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be a concern. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share, particularly for a longer journey to Wilmington, can quickly become prohibitive, placing an additional financial strain on individuals already burdened by healthcare expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a potentially viable alternative. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Medical Transport Services, though not necessarily operating directly in Warsaw, can be found in the broader region. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability might be limited, requiring advance booking.

The physical limitations imposed by COPD can make even the shortest journeys a struggle. The need for supplemental oxygen, the risk of exacerbations, and the general fatigue associated with the disease can significantly impact a patient's ability to travel. This is where the lack of accessible transportation options becomes a critical healthcare access barrier. The ability to attend regular doctor's appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation sessions, and other essential medical treatments is directly linked to the availability and affordability of transportation.

The availability of home healthcare services also plays a crucial role in mitigating the challenges of transportation. Home healthcare providers, such as nurses and respiratory therapists, can bring essential medical care directly to the patient's home, reducing the need for frequent travel. However, the availability and scope of these services can vary, and access to specialized care might still require travel to a healthcare facility.

For individuals considering moving to Warsaw, NC, and living with COPD, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The absence of a robust public transit system, the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower COPD Score.

The COPD Score for Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398), must factor in the rural nature of the area, the limitations of the transportation network, and the potential financial burden associated with accessing healthcare. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the lack of public transit, and the variability of ride-sharing and medical transportation options all contribute to a complex and challenging environment for individuals living with COPD.

The reality is that healthcare access in Warsaw, NC, for individuals with COPD is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure. While the community offers a certain charm and affordability, the limitations in transportation create a considerable hurdle for those seeking medical care.

The COPD Score for Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398) is, therefore, negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. While the community may offer other advantages, the challenges of accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations must be carefully considered by anyone contemplating a move, especially those managing respiratory illnesses. The ability to breathe freely and access the care they need should be a paramount consideration for anyone making such a life-altering decision.