28463, Tabor City, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28463, Tabor City, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.59 percent of residents in 28463 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 16.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tabor City (ZIP Code 28463)

Considering a move to Tabor City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28463)? This charming community, nestled in Columbus County, offers a slower pace of life. However, assessing healthcare access is crucial, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a “Hypertension Score” analysis, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. Understanding these factors is vital for ensuring consistent medical care and managing hypertension effectively.

The “Hypertension Score” isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, weighing the ease and reliability of transportation options to healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management. It considers the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing medical care within and around Tabor City, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal vehicles. This analysis is essential for anyone considering moving to Tabor City, especially those requiring regular medical appointments.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Tabor City is the personal vehicle. The town's location, while offering tranquility, necessitates driving for most errands and appointments. Accessing healthcare often means navigating the local roadways. For residents, the most direct route to larger healthcare facilities is via North Carolina Highway 9 (NC-9), the main thoroughfare running north-south through Tabor City. This highway provides access to Whiteville, the county seat, where Columbus Regional Healthcare System is located.

The drive to Whiteville on NC-9 typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. This journey is relatively straightforward, but it's important to factor in potential delays. For those requiring specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, the drive to larger medical centers in Wilmington (New Hanover Regional Medical Center) or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (Grand Strand Medical Center) becomes necessary. These trips involve longer drive times, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

Traveling to Wilmington requires using NC-9 south to US-74/76, a major east-west highway. The drive along US-74/76 can be congested, especially during peak hours. Conversely, the journey to Myrtle Beach involves heading south on NC-9 to South Carolina Highway 9 (SC-9). This route is generally less congested than the Wilmington route but still requires careful planning, especially during tourist season. These longer drives necessitate careful consideration for individuals with hypertension, ensuring they have access to medication and can manage any potential health concerns during transit.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Tabor City are extremely limited. Columbus County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. For individuals with hypertension, this limitation can severely restrict healthcare access, making it difficult to attend regular appointments, pick up medications, or seek urgent care.

While there might be informal transportation services offered by local churches or community organizations, these are often unreliable and may not be readily available for all appointments. The absence of a robust public transit system emphasizes the importance of alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services, for residents of Tabor City.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in Tabor City, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not always dependable. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services provide a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transportation. Several medical transport providers serve the Tabor City area, including companies that offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring safe and comfortable travel for patients with mobility challenges.

The availability and cost of medical transport services vary. It is essential to research and compare different providers, considering factors such as insurance coverage, service area, and the type of transportation offered. Individuals with hypertension who require medical transport should contact their insurance provider to understand their coverage options and identify approved providers.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Hypertension Management:**

The availability of healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management within Tabor City is limited. Residents often need to travel to Whiteville or other surrounding towns to access specialized care. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation, especially for individuals with complex medical needs.

When considering a move to Tabor City, individuals with hypertension should prioritize researching local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and nephrologists. Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments, which can help reduce the need for frequent travel. Understanding the insurance coverage for transportation services is also crucial.

Additionally, individuals should assess their ability to manage their hypertension while traveling. This includes ensuring they have an adequate supply of medication, a plan for managing potential emergencies, and access to reliable communication during transit.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The “Hypertension Score” for Tabor City (ZIP Code 28463) reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access presents challenges, primarily due to limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Whiteville, Wilmington, and Myrtle Beach need to be considered.

Individuals with hypertension considering a move to Tabor City must carefully evaluate their transportation options. Relying on personal vehicles is the most common solution, but ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, albeit with limitations. Thorough research of local healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and transportation options is essential.

Moving to Tabor City requires proactive planning to ensure consistent healthcare access and effective hypertension management. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing potential challenges, individuals can make informed decisions and maintain their health and well-being in this charming community. The success of managing hypertension in Tabor City hinges on the ability to navigate the transportation landscape and secure reliable access to healthcare.