28464, Teachey, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.93 percent of residents in 28464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.24 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Teachey, NC (ZIP Code 28464)

The air hangs thick and humid in Teachey, North Carolina, a small town nestled in Duplin County. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the simple act of breathing can be a daily battle. Access to timely and reliable healthcare becomes paramount, a lifeline woven into the fabric of their well-being. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 28464, assessing its impact on healthcare access for COPD sufferers. We'll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking care.

The COPD Score, in this context, isn't a formal medical assessment but a qualitative evaluation of the transportation infrastructure's ability to facilitate healthcare access. It considers the time, cost, and ease of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential services. For individuals with COPD, factors like the availability of oxygen, the need for frequent rest stops, and the potential for exacerbations (sudden worsening of symptoms) significantly influence their transportation needs.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in this rural area. The primary thoroughfare is US Highway 117, which snakes through Teachey, connecting it to larger towns and cities. Traveling north on US-117 offers access to Warsaw, a short drive of approximately 10-15 minutes, where some basic medical facilities and pharmacies are available. Continuing north, the journey to Goldsboro, a larger city with more comprehensive healthcare options, takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Southbound on US-117 leads to Wallace, another town offering limited healthcare services, reachable in about 15-20 minutes. Further south, the drive to Wilmington, a major coastal city with a robust healthcare system, stretches to approximately an hour and a half to two hours. This journey necessitates navigating Interstate 40, a vital artery for regional travel. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety, adding an extra layer of complexity for individuals with COPD.

Secondary roads, such as NC Highway 41 and various county roads, offer alternative routes but are often less well-maintained and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical equipment. The condition of these roads is a significant factor in the COPD Score. Potholes, narrow lanes, and limited shoulder space can make driving stressful and potentially dangerous for individuals struggling to breathe.

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 28464 are extremely limited. Duplin County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This deficiency dramatically lowers the COPD Score, highlighting a critical need for improved transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. The rural nature of Teachey and surrounding areas means that wait times for ride-sharing services can be long, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies could make these services unaffordable for some. The unpredictability of ride-sharing further complicates healthcare access for COPD patients, who often require scheduled appointments and prompt access to medical care.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and the transport of medical equipment. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for last-minute appointments. Understanding the specific requirements of medical transport providers, such as the need for advance booking and the availability of oxygen and other medical necessities, is crucial for COPD patients.

For individuals considering moving to Teachey, the transportation challenges should be carefully considered. The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services create significant obstacles to healthcare access. While the town offers a quiet, rural lifestyle, the limitations of transportation must be weighed against the need for consistent and timely medical care.

Healthcare access is a critical factor in the quality of life for COPD sufferers. The COPD Score for Teachey, NC, reflects a landscape where transportation options are limited, and the journey to healthcare can be arduous. The town's reliance on private vehicles and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The lack of public transit and the potential cost of medical transport further exacerbate these difficulties.

This assessment highlights the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access. Exploring the feasibility of a local shuttle service, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, or advocating for increased NEMT options could significantly improve the COPD Score and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in Teachey.