28434, Council, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28434, Council, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.63 percent of residents in 28434 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 15.72 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28434**

Council members and prospective residents of ZIP Code 28434, this report details the transportation landscape affecting access to healthcare, particularly for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making, especially when considering the challenges COPD presents. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility within the community.

The primary concern for COPD patients is timely access to medical care. Flare-ups, exacerbations, and routine appointments demand efficient transportation solutions. The physical limitations of COPD, such as shortness of breath and reduced stamina, further complicate travel. This report aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare system in 28434, ensuring those with COPD can receive the necessary care.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation in this region. The primary arteries for healthcare access include US Highway 17, the main north-south thoroughfare, and NC Highway 211, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

For residents in the northern parts of 28434, reaching the nearest major healthcare facilities, such as New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, typically involves a drive of 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey often utilizes US-17 South. For those in the southern areas, the drive to Wilmington might be slightly shorter, but still presents a considerable time commitment.

Smaller clinics and urgent care centers are available within the ZIP code, offering more immediate options for less severe conditions. However, specialized care, such as pulmonology and respiratory therapy, often necessitates travel to Wilmington. This longer travel time can be particularly challenging during a COPD exacerbation, when every minute counts.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

The public transit system in this area, while present, presents significant limitations for COPD patients. The primary provider is Wave Transit, offering bus routes throughout the region. However, the routes serving 28434 are infrequent, and the coverage is not comprehensive, particularly in the more rural areas.

Several routes, including Route 101 and Route 102, provide limited access to healthcare facilities. However, these routes may require transfers, extending travel times and increasing the physical demands on passengers. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes may not align with the urgent needs of COPD patients.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. Wave Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. However, the availability of these services in 28434 can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. Several companies operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically involve door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist passengers.

Some prominent medical transport providers include Firstat Nursing Services and SeniorCare Transportation. These services are designed to accommodate the specific needs of patients with chronic conditions like COPD. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD Score for 28434 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport options. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.

The analysis reveals that while drive times to major healthcare facilities are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those who cannot drive. Public transit offers limited support, and ride-sharing availability is inconsistent. Medical transport services provide a valuable safety net, but their cost and scheduling requirements can be barriers.

**Recommendations for Council and Residents**

For Council members, this analysis underscores the need for continued investment in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access. Supporting the expansion of public transit routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to improve availability and affordability could also be beneficial.

Residents with COPD should proactively assess their transportation options. Familiarizing themselves with public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers is essential. Establishing a network of support, including family, friends, and community organizations, can further enhance healthcare access.

This report serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility in 28434. Further research, including surveys of COPD patients and healthcare providers, could provide valuable insights for improving the transportation landscape and ensuring that all residents can receive the care they need. The goal is to foster a community where healthcare access is not a barrier, but a readily available resource for all.