28310, Fort Bragg, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28310, Fort Bragg, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

99.51 percent of residents in 28310 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Womack Amc (Ft Bragg) with a distance of 1.43 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28310

The insidious nature of hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands proactive management. In the context of ZIP Code 28310, which encompasses a significant portion of the Fort Bragg military installation and surrounding communities, the ability to access timely and appropriate healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up, a “Hypertension Score” assessment, delves into the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of healthcare access for residents managing this chronic condition. We will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the available modes of transportation, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ease with which individuals in 28310 can reach essential medical appointments.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in proximity. For residents of 28310, this translates to understanding the time it takes to reach medical facilities, particularly those specializing in hypertension management. The primary arteries of transportation in this area are the major highways, including Interstate 95 (I-95), and the secondary roads such as US Highway 401 (US-401) and NC Highway 210 (NC-210). Drive times to key healthcare providers, such as Cape Fear Valley Health System facilities, including the flagship hospital, vary depending on the specific location within the zip code and the time of day. During peak hours, congestion on I-95 can significantly extend travel times, emphasizing the importance of planning and considering alternative routes.

Traffic patterns are a crucial factor. A resident of the northern part of 28310, near the All American Freeway, might face a 20-30 minute drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, while someone residing further south could experience a longer commute, potentially exceeding 45 minutes, especially during rush hour. The US-401 provides an alternative route, although it can also be subject to traffic delays. Knowing these travel patterns is essential for individuals managing hypertension, as timely access to medication refills, check-ups, and emergency care can be life-saving.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its accessibility and efficiency are limited in this area. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus services within the city and surrounding areas. However, the coverage within 28310, particularly on the sprawling Fort Bragg military base, is not extensive. Bus routes, such as Route 1 (serving the All American Freeway corridor) and Route 8 (connecting to downtown Fayetteville), may offer some degree of healthcare access, but frequency and the time required to reach medical facilities are often less than ideal.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the FAST system is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. All FAST buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall route design might still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. Planning trips in advance, considering transfer times, and assessing the accessibility of each stop are essential for those relying on public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another option for transportation to healthcare appointments. The availability of these services in 28310 is generally good, but it can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Individuals managing hypertension may need to budget for these transportation expenses, factoring them into their overall healthcare costs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as First Transit or private medical transportation providers, often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, they can be invaluable for individuals with limited mobility or those who require assistance during transport.

For military families and individuals moving to Fort Bragg, understanding the transportation landscape is a crucial part of the relocation process. Considering the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential challenges of navigating the area is essential for ensuring continuity of care. Researching the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within 28310 and the surrounding areas is a critical first step.

The decision to move to Fort Bragg requires a careful assessment of healthcare access. This includes understanding the transportation infrastructure, the available public transit options, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services. Individuals with hypertension must prioritize this assessment to ensure they can readily access the medical care they need to manage their condition effectively.

The “Hypertension Score” for 28310 is not a simple numerical value but a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. It requires considering the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the potential benefits of medical transportation. This information empowers residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare, ensuring that they can receive timely and appropriate care to manage their hypertension effectively.

The challenges of healthcare access in 28310 are real. However, with careful planning, knowledge of available resources, and a proactive approach to transportation, individuals managing hypertension can navigate these challenges and maintain their health and well-being. Understanding the interplay of highways, roads, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation is key to a successful “Hypertension Score” in 28310.