28364, Maxton, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.53 percent of residents in 28364 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.16 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28364**

The health of a community hinges on many factors, but perhaps none are more critical than access to healthcare. In the rural landscape of Maxton, North Carolina, ZIP code 28364, the ability to reach medical facilities, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is a significant determinant of well-being. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around 28364, assessing the ease with which residents can access necessary healthcare services, providing a “Hypertension Score” based on these considerations.

The challenge of hypertension management in Maxton is compounded by the area's demographics. A predominantly older population, coupled with a higher-than-average prevalence of chronic diseases, underscores the urgent need for efficient and reliable transportation options. This is especially true for individuals with limited mobility or without personal vehicles, making healthcare access a daily struggle.

**Roads and Drive Times**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Maxton are the well-traveled Interstate 95 (I-95), and US Highway 74. These roadways are crucial for reaching larger medical centers. Driving times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions.

To reach the nearest major hospital, Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, residents must typically travel approximately 20 miles via I-95 South. Under ideal conditions, this drive takes about 25-30 minutes. However, during peak hours or in the event of an accident, the commute can easily extend to an hour or more, a critical delay for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis.

Smaller, more local clinics, such as those in Laurinburg, are accessible via US 74 or NC Highway 71. These routes offer shorter drive times, typically 15-20 minutes, offering quicker access to primary care physicians and urgent care facilities. These are vital for routine check-ups and medication management.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Maxton and the surrounding areas are limited. The local public transit system, Robeson County Area Transportation System (RCATS), provides bus services within the county. However, the frequency of routes and the limited coverage areas can pose significant challenges for those seeking healthcare access.

RCATS operates on a fixed-route schedule, with buses running on a limited schedule, typically during weekdays. The routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, and transfers can be time-consuming. Furthermore, ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the overall availability and efficiency of public transportation in 28364 are not conducive to frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by medical transport companies, offer a more specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Maxton**

The availability of healthcare providers within Maxton itself is a crucial factor. The presence of local clinics and primary care physicians significantly reduces the need for long-distance travel. However, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, may require travel to larger medical centers in Lumberton or beyond.

For individuals considering moving to Maxton, the availability of healthcare access should be a primary consideration, especially for those managing hypertension or other chronic conditions. Prospective residents should carefully assess the transportation options available and the proximity of medical facilities.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Considering the transportation landscape in 28364, the "Hypertension Score" reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare. The limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for lengthy drive times to reach specialized care contribute to a moderate level of healthcare access.

The score also considers the presence of local clinics and primary care physicians, which improves access to routine care and medication management. However, the lack of readily available transportation options and the potential for delays in reaching larger medical centers necessitate a cautious assessment.

**Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access for residents of 28364, several measures are recommended. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing the frequency of service would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be considered.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to those in need would be beneficial. Investing in telehealth infrastructure and promoting remote consultations could also improve healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion**

The "Hypertension Score" for 28364 highlights the complex relationship between transportation and healthcare access. While local clinics and primary care physicians provide essential services, the limited transportation options pose a significant challenge for residents, especially those managing hypertension. Addressing these challenges through improved public transportation, ride-sharing initiatives, and telehealth services is crucial to improving the health and well-being of the community. The ability to reach medical care promptly and efficiently is not merely a convenience; it is a fundamental right, and a critical component of a healthy life in Maxton.