28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.99 percent of residents in 28352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.79 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Laurinburg (ZIP Code 28352)

Considering a move to Laurinburg, North Carolina (ZIP code 28352)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services for individuals managing hypertension. This score integrates factors like transportation options, drive times, and public transit availability, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access within the community. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone prioritizing their health, especially those with chronic conditions.

The ability to readily access medical care is paramount for effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and prompt attention to health concerns are essential. This write-up explores the transportation landscape in Laurinburg, analyzing its impact on healthcare access, offering insights to potential residents.

**The Hypertension Score Framework:**

The Hypertension Score will be determined by evaluating the following:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** Analyzing the average drive times to key medical providers.
* **Public Transportation Accessibility:** Assessing the availability, frequency, and ADA compliance of public transit routes.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Availability:** Evaluating the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport options.
* **Geographic Considerations:** Factoring in the location of residential areas relative to healthcare providers.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

Laurinburg's road network, primarily defined by US Highway 15-401 and US Highway 74, significantly influences healthcare access. The primary artery, US-15-401, connects the town to surrounding areas, while US-74 provides east-west access. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Hypertension Score.

The Scotland Health Care System, including Scotland Memorial Hospital, is a central healthcare provider. Driving from various residential areas within 28352 to the hospital typically takes between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic and location. Accessing specialists or other healthcare providers outside of Laurinburg, such as in Fayetteville or Pinehurst, can extend drive times significantly. Travel to Fayetteville via US-401, can take up to an hour, while Pinehurst, accessed via US-15-501, can take approximately 45 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Laurinburg are currently limited. The Scotland County Transportation System (SCTS) offers demand-response services. These services require advance booking and primarily cater to seniors and individuals with disabilities. The SCTS provides curb-to-curb service, and all vehicles are ADA-compliant. However, the limited frequency and the requirement for prior scheduling make public transit less than ideal for spontaneous healthcare needs.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Laurinburg, although their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in certain areas. This variability impacts the reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, are present in the region. These services, such as Firstat Nursing Services, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Geographic Considerations and Healthcare Access:**

The geographic distribution of healthcare facilities within Laurinburg and the surrounding areas plays a significant role in the Hypertension Score. Residents living closer to Scotland Memorial Hospital and other medical offices benefit from shorter drive times and easier access to care.

However, individuals residing in more remote areas or those without personal vehicles face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can exacerbate these challenges.

**The Hypertension Score Calculation:**

The Hypertension Score is calculated using a weighted system. Drive times to healthcare facilities receive the highest weight, followed by the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation. Geographic considerations, such as proximity to healthcare providers, are also factored in.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing healthcare services, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration.

**Implications for Moving to Laurinburg:**

For individuals managing hypertension, understanding the transportation and healthcare access landscape in Laurinburg is crucial before making a move. The Hypertension Score provides a valuable tool for evaluating the suitability of the community.

Individuals who rely on frequent medical appointments or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the available transportation options. Those without personal vehicles may need to rely on ride-sharing, medical transportation, or the limited public transit services.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Determine the frequency and type of medical appointments required.
* **Investigate Healthcare Provider Locations:** Identify the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Research the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, public transit, and medical transportation options.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize housing options located near healthcare providers.
* **Plan for Contingencies:** Have backup transportation plans in place for unexpected needs or when ride-sharing services are unavailable.

**Conclusion:**

The Hypertension Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access in Laurinburg (28352). While the town offers some healthcare resources, the limited public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Careful planning, consideration of transportation options, and an understanding of the local healthcare landscape are essential for ensuring effective healthcare access. Considering a move to Laurinburg requires a thorough assessment of these factors to ensure a smooth transition and continued access to essential healthcare services. This assessment is vital for anyone prioritizing their health while moving to Laurinburg.