28436, Delco, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28436, Delco, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.69 percent of residents in 28436 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 19.56 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28436

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 28436, an area that may be of interest to those considering moving to Delco, particularly if they have COPD. The goal is to illuminate the realities of commuting to healthcare appointments, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for residents.

ZIP Code 28436, encompassing the town of Burgaw, North Carolina, presents a unique transportation environment. It is a rural area, and the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services is limited compared to more urban settings. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, making drive times a critical factor in healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary thoroughfare in and out of Burgaw is US Highway 117, a north-south artery connecting to Wilmington and Goldsboro. Access to specialist care, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, often necessitates travel to Wilmington, approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive depending on traffic conditions. This journey usually involves navigating US 117 South, merging onto I-140 East (the Wilmington Bypass) or continuing directly onto US 17 South.

Other important roads include NC Highway 53, which provides east-west connectivity, and NC Highway 210, offering access to surrounding communities. These roads, while less congested than US 117, may be subject to delays due to seasonal traffic, construction, or inclement weather, which can significantly impact drive times and the ability of COPD patients to reach appointments on time.

For residents seeking care closer to home, Pender Memorial Hospital in Burgaw provides some primary and emergency care services. However, specialized pulmonary care is often not available on-site, necessitating travel to Wilmington or other regional centers. The drive to Pender Memorial Hospital from various locations within 28436 is typically less than 15 minutes, making it a more accessible option for immediate needs.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 28436 are extremely limited. Pender County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve the general population, not specifically catering to the needs of individuals with chronic illnesses. Services are often demand-response, meaning they must be scheduled in advance, and availability can be restricted.

While the Pender County transit system is required to adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments, the limited scope of its operations makes it a less-than-ideal solution for regular healthcare commutes. The system may offer curb-to-curb service, but the need for advance booking and potential delays can be a significant barrier for COPD patients who may experience unpredictable symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area, but their presence in Burgaw is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP Code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from healthcare appointments, are available in the region. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedStar Transportation operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door service and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for COPD Patients**

The challenges of transportation in 28436 directly impact healthcare access for COPD patients. Long drive times to specialist appointments, the limited availability of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation can create significant barriers to receiving timely and appropriate care.

Individuals with COPD often require frequent medical visits, including pulmonary rehabilitation, medication management, and regular check-ups. The ability to easily and reliably access these services is crucial for managing the disease and maintaining a good quality of life. The transportation limitations in 28436 can exacerbate the challenges faced by COPD patients, potentially leading to delayed care, increased hospitalizations, and a decline in overall health.

**Moving to Delco: A COPD Score Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Delco, specifically to ZIP Code 28436, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential, particularly if they have COPD. The "COPD Score" for this area would be relatively low, reflecting the limited access to public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transportation.

Before making a move, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to manage the transportation demands of healthcare appointments. This includes assessing their driving ability, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Additionally, it is crucial to research the availability of healthcare providers in the area, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pharmacies. The proximity of these services to their home and the ease of access via available transportation options should be a primary consideration.

In conclusion, while Burgaw and the surrounding areas offer a charming rural environment, the transportation landscape presents significant challenges for individuals with COPD. Careful planning, a realistic assessment of transportation options, and a proactive approach to healthcare management are essential for ensuring access to the care needed to effectively manage this chronic disease. The "COPD Score" for 28436, therefore, highlights the need for careful consideration and planning for those seeking to relocate to this area, particularly those with existing respiratory conditions.