28332, Dublin, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28332, Dublin, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.26 percent of residents in 28332 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28332 (Dublin, NC)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, most notably healthcare. In ZIP Code 28332, encompassing the town of Dublin, North Carolina, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial for evaluating residents' overall health prospects. This analysis will delve into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare facilities, examining drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. We will assess the ease with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and other vital healthcare providers, providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the realities of healthcare access in Dublin.

The primary consideration in evaluating healthcare accessibility is the time it takes to reach medical facilities. For residents of Dublin, the majority of healthcare services are located in nearby towns, primarily Lumberton and Elizabethtown. The most direct route to Lumberton, home to Southeastern Regional Medical Center, is via NC-41 and US-74. The drive, depending on traffic, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes. This is a relatively manageable commute for routine appointments and emergencies, though longer drive times can negatively impact health outcomes, particularly in urgent situations.

Elizabethtown, another key healthcare hub, offers Cape Fear Valley Health System facilities. The journey to Elizabethtown, using NC-211 and NC-87, is generally shorter, averaging 15 to 20 minutes. This proximity provides a slightly better score for residents, particularly for those who require regular check-ups or specialized care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for these commutes underscores a potential vulnerability for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive.

Public transportation options in Dublin are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for a segment of the population. The primary provider is Robeson County Area Transportation System (RCATS). While RCATS offers routes within the county, the frequency and coverage are limited, and specific routes serving Dublin and connecting directly to healthcare facilities are not readily available. This necessitates a reliance on transfer points, adding significant time and complexity to the journey. The absence of dedicated routes and the potential for long wait times significantly diminishes the "Overall Health Score" for individuals who depend on public transit. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on RCATS buses needs further investigation to ensure inclusivity for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Dublin is inconsistent, and the cost can be prohibitive for many residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. The fluctuating availability of drivers and the potential for surge pricing further complicate the reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access. This variable nature impacts the "Overall Health Score" negatively, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or requiring specialized care, play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. Several providers, such as MedTrans and First Medical Transport, operate in the region. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services, the eligibility requirements, and the potential for scheduling delays must be considered. The effectiveness of these services in meeting the needs of the Dublin community significantly influences the "Overall Health Score."

The infrastructure of the roads and highways in the area impacts transportation accessibility. The condition of NC-41, US-74, NC-211, and NC-87, and the presence of traffic congestion can affect drive times and add to the stress of traveling to medical appointments. Road maintenance, traffic light synchronization, and the availability of safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure also contribute to the overall health of the community.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28332 is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. While drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are relatively short, the lack of robust public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the financial burden of ride-sharing disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

For individuals considering moving to Dublin, the availability of healthcare access should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare facilities. Researching the availability of medical transport services, exploring the potential for carpooling, and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential steps in ensuring healthcare accessibility.

The community of Dublin could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. These include advocating for increased public transit routes and frequency, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation options, and promoting the availability of medical transport services. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and pedestrian-friendly pathways, can also enhance overall accessibility.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28332 reflects a community with moderate access, but with significant areas needing improvement. The combination of relatively short drive times, limited public transit, and variable ride-sharing availability creates a complex landscape. Addressing the challenges related to transportation, expanding public transit options, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services are crucial steps towards improving the health and well-being of the residents of Dublin.