28308, Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28308, Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 28308 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Womack Amc (Ft Bragg) with a distance of 1.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28308

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 28308 requires a comprehensive understanding of their access to healthcare, particularly considering the challenges posed by transportation limitations. This analysis will delve into the available options for reaching medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, ultimately painting a picture of the ease or difficulty with which residents can obtain necessary care. The proximity to Pope Army Airfield adds another layer of consideration, as military personnel and their families often have unique healthcare needs and potential access points.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 28308 is the ability to physically reach medical facilities. For those with personal vehicles, the commute often hinges on the efficiency of the local road network. Major thoroughfares like **US-401** (Raeford Road) and **NC-210** are crucial arteries, providing direct routes to hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments or emergency care.

Navigating from the heart of 28308, a drive to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, the largest hospital in the area, typically involves utilizing **US-401** and can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, dispersed throughout the area, offer shorter commutes, providing more immediate options for less serious medical needs. The distance to Womack Army Medical Center, located on Fort Liberty, is also a significant factor for military families and veterans, requiring careful consideration of base access procedures and potential traffic delays.

Public transportation, while present, presents a more complex scenario. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) operates several bus routes within the city, including routes that traverse portions of 28308. However, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, may be limited. Accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, are available on FAST buses to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Route 1, for example, might offer a connection to a clinic near the intersection of **US-401** and Cliffdale Road, but the overall trip duration, including wait times and transfers, could be significantly longer than a car ride. The availability of public transit to reach medical facilities outside of the immediate Fayetteville area is even more constrained, potentially requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times. This is a critical consideration for residents needing specialized care not readily available within the city limits.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. Their availability in 28308 is generally reliable, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical needs. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density, can be unpredictable, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or requiring specialized care, provide a crucial safety net. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during transport. Several companies operate in the Fayetteville area, including First Medical Transportation and MedStar Ambulance, providing options for non-emergency medical transport and emergency medical services. However, these services may require prior scheduling and can be subject to insurance coverage limitations, making them less accessible for urgent or unscheduled medical needs.

The presence of Pope Army Airfield adds another layer of complexity. Military personnel and their families have access to Womack Army Medical Center, which provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services. The commute to Womack is often a priority, especially for those living on base or in nearby neighborhoods. The base's internal transportation system and access procedures are crucial factors in determining healthcare access for this population.

Moving to Pope Army Airfield requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The proximity to Womack Army Medical Center is a significant advantage. However, residents must also be aware of the potential challenges associated with accessing off-base healthcare providers, including drive times, public transportation limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing services. The overall health score for 28308 is thus inextricably linked to the efficiency and accessibility of its transportation infrastructure.

The overall health score for 28308 is not just about the presence of medical facilities; it's about the ease with which residents can reach them. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation all contribute to a complex equation. Addressing the transportation challenges is crucial to improving the health outcomes of the community.

Future initiatives should focus on enhancing public transportation, improving road infrastructure, and expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing options. Furthermore, promoting awareness of available medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability are essential steps. The ultimate goal is to create a system where all residents of 28308, regardless of their socioeconomic status or mobility limitations, have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This is especially vital for those stationed at Pope Army Airfield, ensuring their health and well-being are prioritized.