28318, Autryville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.49 percent of residents in 28318 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 15.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Autryville (ZIP Code 28318)

Considering a move to the charming community of Autryville, North Carolina, in ZIP code 28318? This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare, specifically for individuals managing hypertension, factoring in transportation options. Understanding these intricacies is crucial for maintaining consistent medical care and promoting overall well-being. We'll explore drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this locale.

Autryville, a rural haven, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The primary concern for residents managing hypertension is the ability to reach medical appointments and pharmacies promptly and reliably. This assessment, therefore, prioritizes the ease and efficiency of transportation to critical healthcare resources.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most common mode of transportation in Autryville is the personal vehicle. Driving offers the greatest flexibility in terms of scheduling and route selection. However, it also introduces variables like traffic, weather conditions, and the potential for unexpected delays.

For residents of Autryville, the primary route to larger medical facilities is often via Highway 24. This highway, a vital artery, connects Autryville to nearby towns like Clinton and Fayetteville. Depending on the destination and time of day, drive times can vary significantly. A typical trip to Clinton, where Sampson Regional Medical Center is located, might take approximately 20-30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Fayetteville, a larger urban center, offers a wider array of healthcare options, including Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and various specialist clinics. Reaching Fayetteville from Autryville necessitates navigating Highway 24 and potentially connecting to Interstate 95 (I-95). This journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Smaller, local clinics and pharmacies within Autryville and the surrounding areas can often be reached within 10-15 minutes. These local resources are vital for routine check-ups, medication refills, and immediate medical needs. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, the longer drive times to larger medical centers must be considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Autryville and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus service in Fayetteville and some surrounding areas. However, the availability of routes and schedules that directly serve Autryville is extremely limited. Residents would likely need to arrange transportation to a FAST bus stop, which could involve a considerable travel time and further complicate the journey.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of public transit is a critical consideration. While FAST buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the limited route coverage in Autryville may still pose a barrier. Residents relying on public transit should carefully assess the accessibility of specific routes and stops to ensure they can safely and comfortably access healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Autryville may be inconsistent, and wait times could be longer compared to more urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, it's crucial to research the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of these services in advance.

**Pharmacy Access: Medication in Motion**

Access to pharmacies is another critical component of healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. Pharmacies within Autryville and nearby towns offer prescription services and over-the-counter medications. Drive times to these pharmacies are generally shorter than trips to larger medical facilities, typically ranging from 5 to 20 minutes.

For those unable to drive, pharmacy delivery services, offered by some local pharmacies and national chains, can provide a convenient solution for medication refills. This can eliminate the need for transportation altogether, significantly improving healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Autryville, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. While the community offers local healthcare resources and relatively short drive times to pharmacies, the limited public transit options and potential reliance on longer drives to larger medical centers pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can mitigate some of these challenges, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered. For individuals managing hypertension, proactive planning is essential. This includes identifying reliable transportation options, establishing relationships with local pharmacies, and understanding the healthcare resources available in the surrounding areas.

**Moving to Autryville: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Autryville, it's crucial to weigh the benefits of a rural lifestyle against the potential challenges of healthcare access. Those who prioritize convenient access to a wide range of medical services may find the drive times to larger medical centers a significant factor.

However, with careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation, individuals with hypertension can successfully manage their health in Autryville. Researching local healthcare providers, exploring transportation alternatives, and establishing a support network are vital steps in ensuring consistent and accessible medical care. The charm and tranquility of Autryville can be enjoyed while effectively managing one's health with thoughtful consideration of transportation needs.