28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.00 percent of residents in 28348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 5.16 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hope Mills (ZIP Code 28348)

Hope Mills, North Carolina, a community nestled near Fayetteville, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of healthcare access within ZIP code 28348, focusing specifically on transportation options and their impact on individuals striving to maintain their health. Understanding these factors is crucial, particularly for those considering moving to Hope Mills and seeking to understand the practicalities of managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently and reliably is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate dependable transportation. Our assessment examines the various modes available, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluates their efficacy in facilitating healthcare access within and around Hope Mills.

**The Road to Healthcare: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Hope Mills is strategically located, offering relatively easy access to medical facilities in Fayetteville and surrounding areas. The primary artery for travel is Interstate 95 (I-95), providing a north-south route. Accessing healthcare facilities to the south, such as Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, often involves navigating I-95 South.

The drive time to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is typically around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. However, rush hour, especially during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this commute. The main road connecting Hope Mills to Fayetteville is US-401, a well-maintained thoroughfare that provides an alternative route, though it is often slower than I-95.

Other healthcare options, such as smaller clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the region. Accessing these facilities often involves navigating local roads like Rockfish Road, Camden Road, and Golfview Road. These routes, while generally less congested than I-95, can still be affected by traffic, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. Careful planning and awareness of potential delays are crucial for individuals with hypertension, as stress and time constraints can exacerbate the condition.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

For residents without personal vehicles, public transportation offers an alternative. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) operates a network of bus routes that serve Hope Mills and Fayetteville. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a limiting factor for healthcare access.

Route 1, for instance, provides service between Hope Mills and downtown Fayetteville, connecting to other routes that may lead to medical facilities. However, the frequency of Route 1, and other routes, may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. The FAST system does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the need to transfer between routes can add significant travel time and complexity, which can be a barrier for some patients.

The FAST website and mobile app provide detailed information on routes, schedules, and real-time tracking. This information is essential for planning trips and minimizing wait times. However, the reliance on public transit can necessitate careful planning and flexibility, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may need to adjust their schedules based on bus availability.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who need a more direct and flexible mode of travel. These services can be especially valuable for individuals with hypertension who may have difficulty driving or who need to avoid the stress of navigating traffic. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible in all parts of Hope Mills, especially during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by local ambulance services and specialized non-emergency medical transport companies, offer a crucial service for individuals with mobility limitations or who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those using wheelchairs, and those who need assistance with medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they often come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Hope Mills (ZIP code 28348) reflects a nuanced picture of healthcare access. While the presence of major highways like I-95 provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can be a challenge. Public transit, while available, may not be the most convenient option for all residents, and ride-sharing services can have limitations.

For those considering moving to Hope Mills, a careful assessment of their individual transportation needs is crucial. Individuals with hypertension should factor in the drive times to their preferred healthcare providers, the availability of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Furthermore, the proximity of pharmacies and grocery stores that offer blood pressure monitoring services is also important. Access to these resources can help individuals manage their hypertension effectively. The availability of local pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS, provides convenient access to medication refills and over-the-counter blood pressure monitoring devices.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Hope Mills**

Living with hypertension in Hope Mills necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access. Understanding the transportation options available, planning appointments strategically, and being prepared for potential delays are all essential. While Hope Mills offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, residents must be mindful of the transportation challenges and proactively manage their healthcare needs.

For individuals considering moving to Hope Mills, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and a realistic understanding of the available resources are crucial. By carefully evaluating the "Hypertension Score" factors, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they can effectively manage their health in this vibrant community. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is a key component of maintaining well-being and enjoying a healthy life in Hope Mills.