COPD Score

28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.91 percent of residents in 28663 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.43 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina

COPD Score 79
People Score 92
Provider Score 20
Hospital Score 76
Travel Score 48

Closest Hospital - ASHE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 28663 Piney Creek North Carolina
No Cars 4.69 4.69 2.14
1 Car 2.93 2.93 19.36
2 Cars 42.82 42.82 40.83
3 or More Cars 49.56 49.56 37.67

Vehicular Access in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina

Travel Score Review of 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Piney Creek (ZIP Code 28663)

Piney Creek, North Carolina (ZIP code 28663), nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a tranquil escape. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the bucolic charm must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This “COPD Score” write-up assesses the transportation landscape, crucial for those needing regular medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency care. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering insights for those considering moving to Piney Creek or already residing here.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Piney Creek is, undeniably, the automobile. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities is via **US-21** and **NC-18**. These highways, while scenic, can present challenges. Peak traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can extend drive times, impacting those with COPD who may experience breathlessness with exertion. The condition demands careful planning, and even a minor delay can become a significant hurdle.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics vary depending on the destination and the time of day. **Ashe Memorial Hospital** in Jefferson, approximately 15 miles from Piney Creek, is a vital resource. The drive, typically taking 20-30 minutes via US-21, can be extended during peak hours. **Wilkes Medical Center** in North Wilkesboro, about 30 miles away, offers a broader range of specialists, but the journey, largely via NC-18, can consume 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This extended travel time presents a significant consideration for individuals with COPD, who may require frequent check-ups and treatments.

Public transportation options in Piney Creek are limited, posing a considerable challenge for those reliant on alternatives to driving. The local transit authority, if one exists, might offer demand-response services, requiring pre-booking. These services, if available, are often designed for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens, and may include ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility. However, the frequency of service and the geographic coverage are typically restricted, making them less than ideal for routine medical appointments. Information about public transit, including routes, schedules, and ADA features, is essential for those evaluating healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent, but their availability in rural areas like Piney Creek is not guaranteed. The presence of these services depends on driver density, which is often lower in less populated regions. Even if ride-sharing is available, the cost can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services also warrants consideration, particularly during inclement weather, which can further complicate transportation challenges.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another avenue for healthcare access. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, but their use is typically reserved for urgent situations. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers may offer transportation for routine appointments, but the cost and availability of these services should be carefully researched.

The lack of readily available transportation options can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with COPD in Piney Creek. The stress of arranging transportation, the extended travel times, and the potential for delays can exacerbate symptoms and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, individuals considering moving to Piney Creek, or already residing here, must carefully assess their transportation needs and develop a robust plan for accessing healthcare.

For those with COPD, proximity to healthcare facilities and reliable transportation are paramount. The remoteness of Piney Creek, while offering tranquility, presents significant challenges in this regard. The COPD Score for Piney Creek, therefore, reflects a need for meticulous planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access. This involves understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of strategies: maintaining a reliable vehicle, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, and identifying local medical transport providers. Furthermore, individuals should establish strong relationships with their healthcare providers, including pulmonologists, primary care physicians, and respiratory therapists, to facilitate communication and support. The goal is to minimize the burden of transportation, allowing individuals with COPD to focus on managing their condition and maintaining a good quality of life.

The assessment of healthcare access in Piney Creek highlights the critical interplay between transportation and health outcomes. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is not merely a logistical concern; it is a vital component of effective COPD management. The challenges presented by limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services underscore the importance of proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the available resources.

Ultimately, the “COPD Score” for Piney Creek emphasizes the need for individuals with COPD to prioritize transportation as an integral part of their healthcare strategy. This includes researching all available options, developing contingency plans, and advocating for improved transportation services within the community. By proactively addressing these challenges, individuals with COPD can navigate the transportation landscape and ensure access to the vital healthcare they need.

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Health Scores Near 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina

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Health Scores in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina