28395, Wade, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28395, Wade, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.10 percent of residents in 28395 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital with a distance of 12.22 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wade, NC (ZIP Code 28395)

The journey to manage hypertension, a silent threat, often hinges on the ease with which individuals can access healthcare. In the heart of Cumberland County, North Carolina, ZIP code 28395, encompassing the charming town of Wade, presents a unique landscape for this critical aspect of well-being. This write-up explores the transportation infrastructure and healthcare options available, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" designed to gauge the relative ease of accessing essential medical services for residents. We'll dissect drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this community.

The foundation of healthcare access in Wade is undeniably linked to the transportation network. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south corridor, and US Highway 301, running parallel to I-95. These highways provide rapid connections to larger population centers, including Fayetteville, where a significant concentration of medical facilities resides. Secondary roads, such as Wade-Stedman Road and Godwin-Honeycutt Road, serve as vital connectors, facilitating local movement and linking residents to essential services.

Driving, therefore, remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Wade. The drive time to Fayetteville, the nearest major medical hub, is a critical factor. Under optimal conditions, a trip to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a leading healthcare provider, via I-95 and All American Freeway, can be completed within 20-30 minutes. However, this time is subject to significant variation due to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog, can further extend travel times, posing a challenge for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring timely medical attention.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 28395 are limited. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are not extensive within Wade itself. While FAST routes may extend near the area, direct routes to healthcare facilities are not readily available. This necessitates a combination of bus travel and walking or a transfer to another mode of transportation, increasing travel time and complexity. The accessibility of FAST buses for individuals with disabilities is an important consideration, with ADA-compliant features incorporated into the fleet. However, the limited reach of the public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville area and, therefore, can be summoned in Wade. However, their availability and affordability can vary. Residents may experience longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. This financial burden can exacerbate existing health disparities and hinder access to necessary care.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments, offering a valuable resource for individuals who are unable to utilize other modes of transportation. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and advance booking is often required, potentially impacting access to urgent care.

The availability of healthcare providers within Wade itself is a key element of healthcare access. While the town may have limited primary care practices, residents often rely on medical facilities in Fayetteville and surrounding areas. The presence of local pharmacies, providing prescription refills and over-the-counter medications, is a critical component of managing hypertension. The ability to conveniently obtain medications and receive basic healthcare advice locally enhances the overall healthcare experience.

Considering the various factors discussed, we can construct a "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 28395. This score is designed to provide a relative measure of the ease with which residents can access healthcare services relevant to managing hypertension. The score is based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing extremely difficult access and 10 representing excellent access.

**Hypertension Score Components:**

* **Drive Time to Major Medical Facilities (Weight: 40%):** This component considers the average drive time to hospitals and specialized clinics in Fayetteville. The shorter the drive time, the higher the score.
* **Public Transportation Accessibility (Weight: 20%):** This component evaluates the availability and frequency of public transit options, including ADA accessibility. The more accessible and frequent the public transit, the higher the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Affordability (Weight: 15%):** This component assesses the availability of ride-sharing services and the relative cost of these services. The greater the availability and affordability, the higher the score.
* **Medical Transport Services (Weight: 15%):** This component evaluates the availability and reliability of medical transport services, including NEMT. The greater the availability and reliability, the higher the score.
* **Local Healthcare Resources (Weight: 10%):** This component considers the availability of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources within Wade. The greater the local resources, the higher the score.

**Applying the Score:**

Based on the analysis, the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 28395 is estimated to be **6.0 out of 10**. This score reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive times to Fayetteville offer a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential challenges with ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical transport services for certain individuals create barriers to access. The score is further influenced by the availability of local healthcare resources, which can mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Wade, NC, managing hypertension requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the proximity to Fayetteville offers relatively quick access to major medical facilities, the limitations of public transit and the dependence on personal vehicles or ride-sharing can pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a vital lifeline for some. Understanding these factors is crucial for both residents and healthcare providers, enabling them to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively and ensure that individuals with hypertension receive the timely and appropriate care they need. The decision to move to Wade should incorporate these transportation considerations, especially for those managing chronic health conditions.