28363, Marston, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.77 percent of residents in 28363 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.99 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marston, NC (ZIP Code 28363)

The quest for quality healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, extends beyond the walls of a doctor’s office. It encompasses the often-overlooked journey to access it. In Marston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28363), this journey is intricately woven into the fabric of transportation options. This write-up aims to assess the accessibility of healthcare resources, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension, considering the available transportation infrastructure.

Marston, a small community nestled in Richmond County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The rural landscape inherently impacts transportation choices, influencing the ease with which residents, especially those with chronic conditions like hypertension, can reach essential medical appointments and services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for assessing the overall healthcare accessibility in this ZIP code.

The primary mode of transportation in Marston is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Navigating the area relies heavily on roadways. Interstate 74, a major artery, offers relatively quick access to larger towns and cities. However, the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities in neighboring communities like Rockingham or Hamlet necessitates travel, impacting the time and energy required for routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency care.

Driving times are a critical factor. Reaching FirstHealth Richmond Memorial Hospital in Rockingham, the closest major hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within the ZIP code. This drive is primarily along US-74 Business and US-1. For specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, patients may need to travel further, potentially to larger medical centers in Fayetteville or Pinehurst, increasing drive times significantly.

Public transportation options in Richmond County are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The county operates a demand-response transit system, offering door-to-door service. However, this system is primarily designed for individuals with disabilities or those with limited mobility. Availability is often restricted, and scheduling requires advance notice, making it less convenient for spontaneous appointments or urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the accessibility of this service for individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent medical attention, requires careful consideration.

The absence of fixed-route public transportation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation providers. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but their availability and affordability can fluctuate, particularly in rural areas. The cost of these services can be a barrier for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a potential solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in Marston and the associated costs need careful evaluation. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, adding to the financial burden of managing hypertension.

The impact of transportation limitations extends beyond appointment scheduling. It affects access to pharmacies for medication refills, grocery stores for healthy food choices, and community resources offering support for managing hypertension. The ability to adhere to prescribed treatment plans, including regular medication intake, healthy eating habits, and exercise, is directly influenced by transportation accessibility.

For individuals considering moving to Marston or residing there, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. The availability of reliable transportation options directly impacts the ability to manage hypertension effectively. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services, and the affordability of medical transportation are all crucial factors to consider.

The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the importance of community-based solutions. Initiatives promoting carpooling, volunteer driver programs, or partnerships with local organizations to provide transportation assistance can significantly improve healthcare access for residents managing hypertension. These initiatives can help bridge the gap in transportation options, ensuring that individuals can reach essential medical services without undue hardship.

Furthermore, healthcare providers can play a vital role in addressing transportation barriers. Offering telehealth consultations, providing home delivery of medications, and coordinating transportation assistance can improve patient outcomes. These strategies can help mitigate the challenges associated with transportation limitations, ensuring that individuals with hypertension receive the care they need.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare accessibility in Marston, NC (ZIP Code 28363) requires a comprehensive understanding of the transportation infrastructure. While the area benefits from its proximity to major highways, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation pose significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including community-based initiatives, healthcare provider support, and a focus on improving transportation options. This integrated approach will ultimately improve healthcare access and promote the well-being of residents in Marston.