28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28352, Laurinburg, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.99 percent of residents in 28352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Laurinburg, NC (ZIP Code 28352)

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, acknowledging that health extends beyond the confines of a doctor's office. A crucial element is **healthcare access**, directly impacted by the ease and efficiency of **transportation**. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape for residents of Laurinburg, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28352), focusing on how they access healthcare facilities. Considering the geographical layout and available resources, we'll determine an "Overall Health Score" for this critical aspect of well-being. This information proves invaluable for anyone **moving to Laurinburg**, providing a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility.

Laurinburg, a town nestled in Scotland County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the town itself is relatively compact, access to specialized medical care often necessitates travel to larger cities. This reliance on external resources necessitates a thorough examination of available **transportation** options. The primary thoroughfare is US Highway 74, a vital east-west artery. Interstate 95, a major north-south corridor, lies a short distance east, offering connections to larger metropolitan areas.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a primary concern. The closest hospital, Scotland Health Care System, is located within Laurinburg itself, making it easily accessible for most residents. However, for specialized care, the journey becomes more complex. Driving to Fayetteville, approximately 45 miles away, via US-401 S and I-95, can take around an hour, depending on traffic. Raleigh, a larger medical hub, is roughly a two-hour drive via US-74 E and I-95 N, presenting a significantly longer commitment.

Public **transportation** options in Laurinburg are limited. Scotland County operates a public transit system, primarily serving the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities. While it offers demand-response services, including door-to-door transportation, its availability and operational hours are restricted. The system lacks fixed routes, and scheduling requires advance notice, potentially hindering immediate access to healthcare. Furthermore, the system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is crucial, ensuring accessibility for all residents.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Laurinburg, offering a degree of flexibility. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for low-income individuals, impacting their ability to access necessary medical care.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for healthcare needs are another option. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), providing door-to-door service for appointments and treatments. These services cater to individuals who may not be able to drive themselves or utilize public transit. The availability of NEMT providers in Laurinburg and their associated costs are critical factors in evaluating healthcare access. Researching local providers and understanding their service areas, insurance coverage, and patient reviews will prove invaluable.

The availability of these services, however, is not uniform. The cost of medical **transportation** can be a barrier for many, especially those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the availability of these services may be limited during evenings, weekends, or holidays, potentially hindering access to urgent care or specialty appointments.

Evaluating these factors, we can begin to formulate an "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Laurinburg. The score will reflect the combined impact of driving times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** options. The score will also consider the potential impact of financial constraints and the needs of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with disabilities.

The limited public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services present challenges. While Laurinburg has its own hospital, the need for specialized care necessitates travel, increasing travel times and costs. The availability of medical **transportation** services provides a valuable safety net, but their accessibility and affordability remain critical concerns.

Considering these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Laurinburg (ZIP Code 28352) is moderate. While the presence of a local hospital provides a baseline of care, the limitations in **transportation** options, particularly for those requiring specialized care, create significant barriers. The score is influenced by the need to travel to larger cities for specialized treatments, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical **transportation**.

For individuals **moving to Laurinburg**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in driving times to specialized medical facilities, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, and the limitations of the public transit system. Prioritizing these factors will allow for informed decisions about healthcare needs and the overall quality of life.

Improvements in the "Overall Health Score" could be achieved through several strategies. Expanding the public transit system, increasing the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the growth of medical **transportation** providers would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Community initiatives that support carpooling or volunteer driver programs could also provide valuable assistance.

In conclusion, while Laurinburg offers a basic level of **healthcare access**, the **transportation** infrastructure presents significant challenges. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when evaluating their healthcare needs. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a moderate level of accessibility, with opportunities for improvement through strategic investments in **transportation** and community-based solutions. These improvements are essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community.