28332, Dublin, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28332, Dublin, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.26 percent of residents in 28332 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dublin, NC (ZIP Code 28332)

Considering a move to Dublin, North Carolina (ZIP code 28332) and concerned about managing hypertension? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly for those requiring regular check-ups and medication, is crucial. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape within and around Dublin, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" to aid in your decision-making.

The core of this analysis revolves around the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This includes drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all factors influencing the ability to maintain consistent healthcare, vital for managing hypertension effectively. We will examine the challenges and opportunities for residents in this rural community.

Dublin, nestled in Bladen County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle. The central thoroughfare is **NC Highway 87**, which snakes through the heart of Dublin, connecting it to larger towns like Elizabethtown and Fayetteville. **NC Highway 41** also provides access, offering another route towards Elizabethtown and beyond.

Drive times are a critical component of our score. The nearest major medical facilities are in Elizabethtown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via NC-87. For more specialized care, Fayetteville, roughly a 45-60 minute drive via NC-87 and US-401, becomes the destination. These times can fluctuate significantly based on traffic, weather conditions, and the time of day.

The impact on a hypertension patient is significant. Regular appointments for blood pressure monitoring, medication refills, and potential specialist consultations necessitate reliable and timely transportation. A longer commute can translate to increased stress, potentially impacting blood pressure levels, and can make adherence to treatment plans more difficult.

Public transportation options are limited in Dublin. Bladen County does offer a public transit system, but its coverage and frequency are constraints. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is essential. Contacting the Bladen County Department of Aging or the county's transportation services directly is vital to understand the current offerings.

The availability of accessible public transit is a crucial element of the Hypertension Score. Limited options can significantly reduce healthcare access for those who cannot drive, have mobility challenges, or prefer not to drive. The lack of regular routes and the potential for long wait times can be a significant deterrent.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville area, but their presence in Dublin is less certain. Availability can vary depending on driver density and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might not be feasible due to potential cost, availability, and the need for advance booking.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients with specific needs. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) provide transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. Researching the availability of NEMT providers in the Dublin area is essential.

The presence of NEMT services directly contributes to the Hypertension Score. Reliable medical transport removes a significant barrier to healthcare access, ensuring that patients can attend appointments without the stress and logistical challenges of arranging their own transportation.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Dublin, NC (28332) is influenced by several factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The drive times to medical facilities, while manageable, add another layer of complexity. The potential for increased stress associated with travel, particularly for patients with hypertension, must be considered.

The score is also impacted by the potential for NEMT services. The availability of these services can significantly improve healthcare access, offering a vital lifeline for those who cannot drive or have mobility challenges. The presence of these services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

To create a more detailed "Hypertension Score," consider these factors:

* **Drive Time:** Average drive time to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Frequency, routes, and ADA accessibility of public transit.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation:** Availability and cost of NEMT services.
* **Local Healthcare Infrastructure:** Number of clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals within the ZIP code.
* **Patient Demographics:** Age, income, and mobility limitations of the population.

For someone moving to Dublin, NC (28332) with hypertension, understanding these factors is critical. Prioritize research into local healthcare providers and transportation options. Explore the availability of NEMT services and consider the potential impact of drive times on your well-being.

The decision to move to Dublin should involve a thorough assessment of your individual needs. While the area offers a rural charm, healthcare access requires careful consideration. By evaluating the transportation landscape, potential residents can make informed decisions that support their health and well-being.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" reflects the ease with which residents can access the healthcare they need. In Dublin, NC (28332), the score is influenced by the balance between the challenges of limited public transit and the potential benefits of medical transportation services. Careful planning and proactive research are key to ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in this community.