28432, Clarendon, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.64 percent of residents in 28432 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 11.68 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Clarendon, NC (ZIP Code 28432)

Clarendon, North Carolina, nestled in Columbus County, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up, a "COPD Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within ZIP code 28432, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Clarendon. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the available options and their limitations, particularly concerning the crucial element of transportation for individuals with COPD.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ability to reach medical facilities. For COPD patients, regular appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency care are critical. Transportation limitations can significantly hinder these needs, impacting quality of life and disease management. This score considers various modes of transportation, their accessibility, and the potential challenges they present within the Clarendon area.

**Driving: The Dominant Mode**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Clarendon. The major thoroughfares are crucial for accessing healthcare. Residents rely heavily on US Highway 701, a north-south artery, and NC Highway 211, which provides east-west access. The drive to the nearest major healthcare providers, such as Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville (approximately 15 miles) and McLeod Loris Seacoast Hospital in Loris, South Carolina (approximately 20 miles), dictates the level of healthcare access.

Drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours or in the event of an emergency. Rural roads, while scenic, can be narrow and poorly maintained, adding to the challenge for those with breathing difficulties. The condition of the roads, particularly in areas prone to flooding, can also create significant barriers to transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Clarendon are extremely limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This lack of public transportation exacerbates healthcare access issues, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who are unable to drive due to their COPD.

There are no readily available fixed-route buses or dedicated public transit services within the immediate vicinity of Clarendon. This deficiency necessitates reliance on other transportation modes, such as ride-sharing services or medical transportation, to access healthcare. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are nonexistent within the local public transit infrastructure.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarendon area, but their availability and reliability may vary. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The remoteness of the area and the limited driver pool can result in longer wait times, potentially making it difficult to reach appointments on time or access emergency care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including Coastal Transport and First Choice Medical Transportation. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be expensive, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

The location of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in determining healthcare access. The Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville is the primary hospital serving the area. The hospital offers a range of services, including pulmonary care and emergency services. The drive to Whiteville, however, is a significant consideration for residents of Clarendon.

The distance to specialized pulmonary care centers and the availability of specialized equipment, such as oxygen therapy, are essential factors for COPD patients. The presence of these services within a reasonable distance is crucial for effective disease management. The accessibility of these facilities, including parking and ease of entry, is also paramount for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Assessing the COPD Score**

The COPD Score for Clarendon, NC (28432) is influenced by several factors. The lack of a robust public transportation system, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transportation services, while helpful, does not fully compensate for the limitations of other transportation modes.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, the condition of the roads, and the potential for traffic congestion further impact the score. The score also considers the availability of specialized pulmonary care and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. The cost of transportation, including fuel, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation charges, also influences the overall score.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access for COPD patients in Clarendon requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, even on a limited basis, would significantly benefit residents. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve access.

Promoting the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability is crucial. Investing in road maintenance and improvements would enhance safety and reduce travel times. Encouraging telehealth services, where appropriate, could reduce the need for in-person appointments.

**Moving to Clarendon with COPD: Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Clarendon with COPD, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options require careful consideration. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services should be investigated.

Proximity to healthcare facilities, including pulmonary specialists and emergency services, is crucial. The ability to drive safely and reliably, or the availability of reliable transportation alternatives, is essential for managing COPD effectively. Prospective residents should also consider the potential for isolation due to limited transportation options and the impact on social support networks.

**Conclusion**

The COPD Score for Clarendon, NC (28432) reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the limitations of transportation present significant hurdles for individuals managing COPD. A comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape, the available healthcare facilities, and the potential challenges is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Clarendon. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential to ensuring that COPD patients in Clarendon can access the care they need to live fulfilling lives.