28472, Whiteville, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.61 percent of residents in 28472 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 2.43 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Whiteville, NC (ZIP Code 28472)

The air hangs thick and humid in Whiteville, North Carolina, a characteristic of the coastal plain that can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). For prospective residents considering a move to this community, understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points is paramount. This "COPD Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available options within and around ZIP Code 28472, aiding in informed decision-making.

Whiteville, the county seat of Columbus County, offers a blend of small-town charm and rural landscapes. The **transportation** landscape, however, presents unique hurdles for those with respiratory conditions. The ability to navigate the region efficiently and reliably is crucial for managing COPD, which requires regular medical appointments, access to medications, and potential emergency care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary artery serving Whiteville is US-74/76, a major east-west thoroughfare. This highway provides relatively swift access to Wilmington, approximately 50 miles east, where more specialized medical facilities, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, are located. Drive times to Wilmington can vary significantly depending on traffic, but typically range from one to one and a half hours. The journey involves traversing US-74/76, and potentially transitioning onto I-140 for quicker access to Wilmington’s medical hub.

Traveling west on US-74/76 leads to Interstate 95, a major north-south interstate that connects to larger cities like Fayetteville and Raleigh. However, these destinations are significantly farther, making them less practical for routine **healthcare access**.

Within Whiteville, local roads like Madison Street and Jefferson Street provide access to local medical offices and Columbus Regional Healthcare System. However, these roads can experience congestion during peak hours, adding to the travel time and potentially increasing exposure to air pollutants.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public **transportation** options in Whiteville are limited. Columbus County Public Transportation operates a demand-response system, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service is crucial for those without personal vehicles, but it may not always be ideal for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. The system's availability is restricted to specific hours and days, further limiting its utility. ADA accessibility is a feature of the system, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, due to the nature of demand-response systems, trips may require longer wait times.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Whiteville, offering an alternative to public **transportation**. However, their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments carries inherent risks, including potential delays and surge pricing.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are also available. These services, such as First Medical Transportation and Liberty Ambulance, provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from appointments. They offer a more reliable option than ride-sharing, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and level of care required.

**Healthcare Access Points:**

Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville serves as the primary local healthcare provider. It offers a range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care. For individuals with COPD, this proximity is advantageous, allowing for relatively quick access to medical attention. However, for specialized pulmonology services or advanced treatments, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Wilmington or Fayetteville.

**Impact on COPD Management:**

The **transportation** landscape in Whiteville presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals managing COPD. The availability of Columbus Regional Healthcare System provides convenient access to local medical care. However, the limited public **transportation** options and potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to accessing specialized care or attending frequent appointments.

The distance to larger medical centers in Wilmington necessitates careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, can expose individuals to air pollutants during travel.

**Moving to Whiteville: Considerations for COPD Patients:**

For individuals considering **moving to Whiteville**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle or access to medical **transportation** services is crucial. Proximity to Columbus Regional Healthcare System is a significant advantage.

Prior to the move, prospective residents should research the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services. Establishing a network of support, including family, friends, or community organizations, can provide assistance with **transportation** to appointments. Understanding the potential impact of air quality on respiratory health is also critical.

**Conclusion:**

The "COPD Score" for Whiteville, NC (ZIP Code 28472) reveals a mixed picture. While local healthcare access is available, the **transportation** infrastructure presents challenges. Individuals with COPD should carefully weigh these factors when making decisions about **moving to Whiteville**. Prioritizing reliable **transportation** options, establishing a support network, and understanding the local healthcare landscape are essential for successful COPD management in this community. The ability to navigate the **transportation** network is directly linked to the quality of life for those with COPD.