28743, Hot Springs, North Carolina COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 28743, Hot Springs, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.06 percent of residents in 28743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Haywood Regional Medical Center with a distance of 21.28 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28743**

Navigating the challenges of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Hot Springs, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28743), requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis provides a COPD Score, evaluating the ease of reaching medical facilities from various locations within the area. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This information is crucial for individuals with COPD, especially those contemplating moving to Hot Springs, ensuring their ability to receive timely and effective care.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of 28743 is the Hot Springs Health Program, located in the heart of town. This facility offers primary care, pulmonary rehabilitation, and other essential services for COPD management. Drive times to this critical resource are the foundation of our assessment. The score also considers access to specialty care, such as pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, often located in Asheville, approximately an hour’s drive away.

For those residing in the town center, the commute to the Hot Springs Health Program is generally straightforward. Access is typically via US Highway 25/70, the main thoroughfare through town. Traffic is usually light, allowing for a drive time of under 10 minutes. This short distance contributes favorably to the COPD Score, minimizing exertion and exposure to environmental irritants. The ease of this commute is a significant advantage for individuals managing COPD.

However, the transportation landscape becomes more complex for residents in the surrounding areas. Those living along the French Broad River, west of town, may face longer drive times. Reaching the health program requires navigating winding roads, potentially encountering traffic, particularly during peak hours. The journey often involves using US Highway 25/70, but the distance can extend drive times to 15-20 minutes.

Residents in the more remote areas, especially those residing north of town along the Appalachian Trail, face the most significant transportation challenges. The mountainous terrain and limited road infrastructure necessitate longer drives. Reaching the Hot Springs Health Program can take up to 30 minutes, or even longer during inclement weather. This extended travel time negatively impacts the COPD Score, potentially delaying access to essential medical care.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in 28743. The local transit system is not well-developed, and there are no fixed-route bus services that directly serve the Hot Springs Health Program. This lack of public transit significantly reduces the COPD Score for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to drive. The absence of reliable public transportation is a major impediment to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Hot Springs. While they may be available, their availability and reliability are not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. This uncertainty further complicates transportation for individuals with COPD, who may require scheduled medical appointments. The dependence on ride-sharing can negatively impact the COPD Score.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other health concerns. Companies like MedTrans and others provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, their availability and cost must be factored into the overall COPD Score. The accessibility and affordability of medical transport are crucial considerations.

Access to specialty care in Asheville presents another transportation challenge. The drive to Asheville, approximately 50 miles away, typically takes about an hour via Interstate 26 and US Highway 25/70. While the roads are generally well-maintained, traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can extend travel times. This longer commute to specialist appointments can negatively impact the COPD Score, requiring careful planning and consideration.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is another critical factor. Public transportation, if available, must comply with ADA regulations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Ride-sharing services should also offer accessible vehicle options. Medical transport services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is essential for ensuring healthcare access for all individuals with COPD.

When considering moving to Hot Springs, individuals with COPD must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The COPD Score for 28743 is influenced by several factors: proximity to the Hot Springs Health Program, availability of public transit, reliability of ride-sharing services, and accessibility of medical transport. The ability to reach specialist care in Asheville also significantly impacts the score.

The COPD Score for residents in the town center is relatively favorable, given the short drive times to the Hot Springs Health Program. However, the score decreases for those living in the surrounding areas, particularly those in more remote locations. The lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services further reduce the score. The cost and availability of medical transport services are important considerations.

Individuals with COPD who are considering moving to Hot Springs should carefully assess their transportation needs and preferences. They should factor in their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the cost of medical transport services. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities and ensuring reliable transportation options are essential for managing COPD effectively. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating healthcare access in 28743, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and lifestyle choices.