28554, Maury, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28554, Maury, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.23 percent of residents in 28554 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Lenoir Health Care with a distance of 13.11 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28554

The air hangs heavy in the coastal plains of North Carolina, a region where the prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) demands careful consideration of healthcare access. This analysis, a 'COPD Score' write-up, focuses on the challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD seeking medical care in ZIP Code 28554, encompassing the town of Maury. Our aim is to illuminate the complexities of transportation, a critical factor in healthcare access, especially for those managing respiratory illnesses. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Maury.

Understanding the landscape of transportation is paramount. For individuals with COPD, the ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services is not merely a convenience; it is a matter of survival. The COPD Score seeks to quantify the ease of access, factoring in travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of specialized services catering to the needs of those with respiratory conditions. This score will guide residents in making informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Maury are US Highway 17 and NC Highway 102. Driving times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by these roadways. Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, approximately 20 miles west, is a key healthcare provider. A drive along US-17 South and then NC-24 West typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The trip to CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern, approximately 30 miles east, is a bit longer, requiring travel on US-17 North, averaging 45-60 minutes.

These drive times, while manageable for some, can pose significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The exertion of driving, especially in humid conditions, can exacerbate breathing difficulties. The availability of oxygen, a crucial element of healthcare access, must be considered when planning these trips. Moreover, unexpected delays due to traffic accidents or weather events can add to the stress and physical strain.

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 28554 are limited. The Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) is in New Bern, offering air travel, but it is not a viable option for routine healthcare appointments. The local public transit system, if available, is unlikely to have extensive routes serving Maury directly. Information about specific bus routes, their frequency, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is crucial. It is imperative to investigate if any routes connect Maury to healthcare hubs like New Bern or Kenansville.

ADA compliance is a non-negotiable requirement for public transit. Buses must be equipped with ramps or lifts, and drivers must be trained to assist passengers with mobility limitations. The availability of accessible stops, with adequate shelter and seating, is also essential. The COPD Score will incorporate a detailed assessment of the ADA features offered by any public transit services operating in the area.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in rural areas like Maury can be sporadic. The COPD Score will assess the frequency and reliability of ride-sharing services, including peak-time availability and the potential for surge pricing. The ability to schedule rides in advance, a critical factor for healthcare appointments, will also be evaluated.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to address the needs of individuals with medical conditions. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The COPD Score will identify and evaluate the availability of medical transportation providers in the area.

Several medical transportation brands could be available in the area. Companies like MedTrans or FirstLight Home Care might offer services. The COPD Score will investigate their service areas, pricing structures, and the types of vehicles they utilize, including those equipped with oxygen and other medical necessities. The ability of these services to accommodate individuals with COPD, including their experience with respiratory conditions, is a critical factor.

The cost of transportation is another crucial consideration. For individuals on fixed incomes, the expense of driving, ride-sharing, or medical transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. The COPD Score will incorporate an analysis of transportation costs, comparing the different modes of transport and their financial implications.

The COPD Score will also consider the location of pharmacies. Access to medication is essential for managing COPD, and the proximity of pharmacies to healthcare facilities and residential areas is a key factor. The availability of home delivery services from pharmacies is another important consideration, particularly for individuals with limited mobility.

The overall COPD Score for ZIP Code 28554 will be a composite of all these factors. It will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, medical transportation, and cost. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing residents and prospective movers with a valuable tool for making informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being.

Moving to Maury requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The COPD Score will provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities in this area. It will empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare, ensuring they can receive the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The score will serve as a guide, navigating the complex landscape of transportation and healthcare access in the coastal plains of North Carolina.