28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.56 percent of residents in 28456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 23.49 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Riegelwood, NC (ZIP Code 28456)

The crisp air of Riegelwood, North Carolina, a small community nestled in Columbus County, offers a certain tranquility. However, for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity can be challenged by the realities of healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "COPD Score" for individuals residing in ZIP code 28456, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, a critical factor in managing this debilitating respiratory illness. We will analyze the available transportation infrastructure and services, painting a picture of the practical challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking healthcare.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical appointments. For Riegelwood residents, this often translates to a car journey. The primary roadways serving the area include NC Highway 87, a vital artery connecting Riegelwood to larger towns and cities. NC Highway 87 provides access to Whiteville, the county seat, where Columbus Regional Healthcare System offers comprehensive medical services, including pulmonary care. Drive times to Whiteville from Riegelwood typically range from 15 to 20 minutes, a manageable distance for most. However, the condition of the roads, particularly after inclement weather, can impact drive times and safety.

Further afield, Wilmington, approximately 45 miles east via NC Highway 87 and US Highway 74/76, presents another healthcare option. Wilmington boasts a wider array of specialized medical facilities, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, offering advanced pulmonary care. The drive to Wilmington, however, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute poses a significant challenge for COPD patients, who may experience increased shortness of breath during prolonged travel. This is especially true for those living with advanced stages of the disease.

Public transportation options within Columbus County are limited. The county operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of COPD patients. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is essential for evaluating the viability of public transit. Investigating the availability of lift-equipped buses and other accommodations is crucial for patients with mobility limitations, a common concern for those with COPD. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the COPD Score, highlighting a critical need for improved accessibility.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability in Riegelwood and surrounding areas is less certain. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances, can be prohibitive for many residents, further limiting their access to healthcare. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is a factor to consider. The absence of readily available ride-sharing options negatively affects the COPD Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another potential solution. Several companies specialize in this area, including Firstat Nursing Services and Liberty Medical Transportation. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability and cost of these services in the Riegelwood area need to be assessed. The COPD Score will be positively impacted by the presence of reliable and affordable medical transportation options.

For those considering moving to Riegelwood, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services should be a primary consideration, especially for individuals managing COPD. The current transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. While the proximity to Whiteville offers relatively easy access to basic medical care, the longer commute to Wilmington for specialized services poses a significant hurdle. The limitations of public transit and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The COPD Score for Riegelwood, NC (ZIP code 28456) is influenced by the interplay of several factors. The score will be affected by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability and affordability of medical transportation. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, also plays a role.

To improve the COPD Score, several interventions are possible. Enhancing the county's public transit system by expanding routes, increasing frequency, and ensuring ADA accessibility would significantly benefit COPD patients. Promoting ride-sharing services in the area, potentially through subsidies or partnerships with local healthcare providers, could also improve access. Furthermore, ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transportation services is crucial.

The COPD Score is not merely a numerical assessment; it reflects the lived experiences of individuals managing a chronic illness. It underscores the importance of accessible transportation in maintaining their health and well-being. For those with COPD, the ability to reach medical appointments is not just a convenience; it is a necessity. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding and addressing the specific challenges faced by COPD patients in Riegelwood, ultimately promoting better healthcare access and improved quality of life.