28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.57 percent of residents in 28543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brynn Marr Hosp with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tarawa Terrace (ZIP Code 28543)

The journey to healthcare in Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28543), presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately providing a COPD Score reflecting the ease of healthcare access for residents. The goal is to illuminate the realities of navigating the transportation network, particularly for those considering moving to Tarawa Terrace, and to highlight potential areas for improvement.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access is the distance and ease of travel to medical facilities. In Tarawa Terrace, the closest major healthcare provider is Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL), located within the Marine Corps Base. This proximity offers a significant advantage, potentially reducing travel times and minimizing exposure to environmental irritants. However, access is contingent on base access protocols, which can vary.

For those without base access, or needing specialized care unavailable at NMCCL, the next closest options are located in Jacksonville, approximately 10-15 minutes away, depending on traffic conditions. The primary route is via US Highway 17, a major thoroughfare connecting Jacksonville to other towns. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting individuals with COPD who may be more susceptible to the effects of air pollution from idling vehicles.

Alternative routes, such as using NC Highway 24, offer a slightly longer but less congested option. This route, while less direct, could provide a more predictable travel time, especially during rush hour. The condition of these roads is generally good, but potholes and uneven surfaces can pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues, a common concern among COPD patients.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. The primary route serving Tarawa Terrace is likely to be Route 1, which runs along Lejeune Boulevard and connects to downtown Jacksonville. However, the frequency of service and the potential for extended travel times make this option less desirable for individuals with COPD who require timely medical attention.

The JTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating areas, which are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers to reach certain medical facilities can still pose a significant barrier.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more convenient and flexible transportation option. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in areas further from the city center. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation. These services are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs and are often coordinated through healthcare providers. While they provide a critical service, they are not always readily available and can be subject to delays.

The COPD Score for transportation in Tarawa Terrace reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to NMCCL offers a significant advantage, but access is contingent on base access protocols. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional support, but availability and cost are factors to consider. The limited public transit options and potential for traffic congestion on US Highway 17 and NC Highway 24 present challenges.

The overall score is influenced by several factors. The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is a positive factor. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also a positive factor, though cost and availability are variables. The limited public transit options and the potential for traffic congestion on major roads are negative factors.

For individuals considering moving to Tarawa Terrace, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This assessment should include an evaluation of their ability to drive, their access to ride-sharing services, and their eligibility for medical transport. It is also important to consider the frequency of medical appointments and the potential for unexpected healthcare needs.

The COPD Score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual circumstances and evolving transportation options. The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure, including potential improvements to public transit and the expansion of ride-sharing services, could significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Tarawa Terrace.

In conclusion, while Tarawa Terrace offers some advantages in terms of proximity to healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals with COPD. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial to ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional support, but the limited public transit options and potential for traffic congestion on major roads pose challenges. The COPD Score reflects this mixed picture, highlighting the need for ongoing assessment and adaptation to ensure optimal healthcare access.