28377, Red Springs, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28377, Red Springs, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.11 percent of residents in 28377 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 15.06 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Red Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28377)

Moving to a new town, especially one like Red Springs, North Carolina, requires careful consideration of many factors. One crucial aspect, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is the ease of **transportation** to and from **healthcare** providers. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment for ZIP code 28377, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities, focusing on **healthcare access** and the practicalities of navigating the area, considering the needs of residents managing hypertension.

Red Springs, nestled in Robeson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing medical care. The rural nature of the area influences the availability of **transportation** options and the distance to specialized services. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents in 28377 is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars necessitates an understanding of drive times to essential healthcare providers. The closest major hospital is Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves US-74, a major east-west artery, and occasionally, NC-211.

Navigating US-74 can be relatively straightforward, but rush hour and unexpected delays are possible. Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in Red Springs, potentially reducing drive times for routine appointments. These facilities are generally accessible via local roads, like Main Street and East 2nd Avenue. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to Lumberton or even Fayetteville, which is about an hour’s drive.

The condition of the roadways is generally good, but potholes and other road hazards can exist, particularly on secondary roads. This can impact the comfort and safety of patients, especially those with mobility issues or cardiovascular concerns. Careful planning and consideration of road conditions are vital when scheduling appointments.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public **transportation** options in Red Springs are limited. Robeson County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, and service areas are restricted. The system is designed to serve the entire county, so wait times between routes can be lengthy. Residents should contact the Robeson County Public Transit System for specific route information and schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The Robeson County Public Transit System is required to provide accessible vehicles, featuring ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the availability of these accessible vehicles on every route and at every time is not guaranteed.

The sparse nature of public **transportation** makes it a less viable option for many, particularly those with hypertension who may need frequent medical appointments or experience sudden health events.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Red Springs area, but their availability is not consistent. Demand is low, and drivers may not always be readily accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or regular appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an option. These services, such as First Medical Transportation and Med-Ride, often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, these services come with associated costs, and booking in advance is usually required.

**Healthcare Access and Proximity:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." While Red Springs has primary care physicians and clinics, the limited availability of specialized care necessitates travel. This travel time can be a barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent monitoring and adjustments to their medication or lifestyle.

The location of pharmacies is another consideration. Access to medication is critical for managing hypertension, and the proximity of pharmacies, like CVS or Walgreens in Lumberton, to healthcare providers is essential. The availability of 24-hour pharmacies can also be a critical factor in emergencies.

**Moving to Red Springs: Considerations for Hypertension Management:**

For individuals considering **moving to Red Springs**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is paramount. The limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized medical care should be carefully evaluated.

Before relocating, prospective residents should:

* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician** in the area.
* **Identify the location of the nearest pharmacies** and understand their hours of operation.
* **Research the availability of specialized medical care** (cardiologists, nephrologists, etc.) and assess the travel time required.
* **Investigate the availability of medical transportation services** and their associated costs.
* **Consider the potential impact of limited public transit** and ride-share availability on their ability to attend medical appointments.

**Hypertension Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for 28377 is moderate. The availability of primary care physicians within Red Springs offers some convenience. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care and pharmacies reduce the overall score.

Individuals with hypertension should carefully weigh these factors and develop a comprehensive plan for managing their healthcare needs, including considering the impact of **transportation** on their ability to access timely and appropriate medical care. Prioritizing a proactive approach to **healthcare access** is vital for successful hypertension management in Red Springs.