28358, Lumberton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.50 percent of residents in 28358 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28358

The health and well-being of residents in Lumberton, North Carolina, ZIP code 28358, are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare. This comprehensive analysis examines the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of healthcare access, and provides an overall health score reflecting the ease and challenges of reaching medical services. For anyone considering moving to Lumberton, this information is vital for understanding the practicalities of maintaining their health.

The foundation of healthcare access in 28358 is the road network. Interstate 95 (I-95) serves as a major artery, offering north-south connectivity. However, relying solely on I-95 for local healthcare access can be problematic, particularly during peak traffic hours or due to accidents. Local roads like North Carolina Highway 41 (NC-41), NC-72, and NC-211 provide crucial links to healthcare facilities within and around Lumberton. The efficiency of these routes, however, is often hampered by traffic congestion and the lack of dedicated lanes for emergency vehicles.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary factor in our assessment. Southeastern Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital serving the area, is located within Lumberton. Drive times to this facility from various points within 28358 are generally reasonable, typically ranging from 5 to 20 minutes depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to facilities in Fayetteville or even further afield, such as in Durham or Chapel Hill. These longer journeys, often requiring travel on I-95, can significantly impact healthcare access, especially during emergencies.

Public transportation options in Lumberton are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents. The Robeson County Area Transit System (RCATS) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are often insufficient to meet the needs of those requiring regular medical appointments. While RCATS aims to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the scope of its services is restricted, and navigating the system requires careful planning. For those without personal vehicles, relying on public transit can mean extended travel times and increased difficulty in reaching healthcare providers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lumberton, offering an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas within the ZIP code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it unaffordable for some residents to access necessary medical care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs, offer a crucial lifeline for some. While specific brands operating within 28358 may vary, these services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services are often costly and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent medical situations.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 28358 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of a local hospital offers a degree of convenience, the limitations of transportation options create challenges for many residents. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation.

The challenges of healthcare access in 28358 are particularly pronounced for vulnerable populations. Individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with low incomes often face the greatest difficulties in accessing medical care. These groups may be disproportionately affected by the lack of reliable transportation options and the high cost of alternative services.

For individuals considering moving to Lumberton, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services. Understanding the limitations of the existing transportation infrastructure is crucial for making an informed decision about relocating to this area.

The availability of specialized medical care outside of Lumberton further complicates the transportation landscape. The need to travel to larger cities for certain treatments or consultations adds to the burden on residents. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel times, costs, and the availability of transportation options.

The impact of traffic on healthcare access cannot be overstated. Congestion on I-95 and local roads can significantly increase travel times, potentially delaying access to critical medical care. This is especially concerning during emergencies, where every minute counts.

The economic impact of transportation limitations on healthcare access is also significant. The cost of transportation, whether through personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services, can create a financial burden for residents. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

The availability of healthcare providers within 28358 is also a factor in the overall health score. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals within the community can improve access to care. However, the availability of these services is often influenced by the broader healthcare landscape, including the availability of specialists and the capacity of local healthcare facilities.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 28358 is moderately concerning. While the presence of a local hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some advantages, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of alternative transportation options create significant challenges. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and investing in infrastructure improvements would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents.

The future of healthcare access in 28358 hinges on addressing the transportation challenges. Investing in a more robust public transit system, exploring innovative transportation solutions, and promoting collaboration between healthcare providers and transportation providers are all essential steps. For those moving to Lumberton, careful planning and a realistic assessment of transportation needs are crucial for maintaining their health and well-being.