28364, Maxton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.53 percent of residents in 28364 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Maxton, NC (ZIP Code 28364)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Maxton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28364) requires a deep dive into a critical component: healthcare access. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape, a crucial determinant of how easily individuals can reach medical facilities. The ability to navigate the roads, utilize public transit, or secure alternative transportation directly impacts health outcomes. Understanding the challenges and opportunities within this context is paramount for residents and those considering moving to Maxton.

Maxton, nestled in Robeson County, presents a unique set of transportation dynamics. The town's relative isolation and rural setting influence healthcare access. The availability and efficiency of transportation options are key to understanding the overall health score. This write-up will examine the various methods available, from personal vehicles to public transport, and their implications for residents.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Maxton is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. However, the distances to healthcare facilities and the quality of the roadways are critical factors. The closest major medical center is Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, approximately 20 miles away. Driving there usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route.

The primary thoroughfares used for this commute are Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, and US Highway 74, which runs east-west. Traveling on I-95 offers a faster, albeit often congested, route. US 74 provides a more direct path, especially for those residing on the western side of Maxton. Smaller roads like NC Highway 130 and NC Highway 71 are essential for local travel within and around Maxton, but they may not be ideal for reaching larger medical facilities due to their slower speeds and potential for congestion.

The condition of these roads is a significant consideration. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and lack of shoulders can pose safety hazards, particularly for emergency situations. Regular maintenance and improvements to the road infrastructure are vital to ensuring safe and efficient travel to healthcare providers.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Maxton and the surrounding areas are limited. Robeson County provides a public transportation service, but it is not designed to be a comprehensive system. It is essential to contact the county directly for current routes, schedules, and availability. The service is primarily aimed at providing transportation to essential services, including medical appointments.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a considerable barrier for individuals without access to personal vehicles. This includes seniors, low-income residents, and those with disabilities. The absence of frequent and reliable public transport significantly reduces healthcare access.

The availability of ADA-compliant features on public transit vehicles is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Ensuring that buses and other vehicles are accessible is essential for promoting equitable healthcare access. Unfortunately, in rural areas, this can be challenging due to limited resources.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in some areas, but their availability in Maxton is not guaranteed. Their presence can vary based on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The availability of medical transportation services in Maxton is crucial. It is essential to research and identify reputable providers in the area and understand their pricing structure and service areas.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Identifying specific medical transportation brands operating directly within Maxton is challenging due to the rural setting. However, researching services that cover Robeson County and surrounding areas is essential. Some national brands may offer services in the area, or there may be local, independent providers.

Researching and contacting local healthcare providers, such as hospitals and clinics, is a good way to get information about medical transportation options. They may have partnerships with specific transportation companies or be able to provide recommendations.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The transportation landscape in Maxton significantly impacts the overall health score. The limited availability of public transportation, the potential for long drive times, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for healthcare access. These challenges can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, which can worsen health outcomes.

Individuals with chronic conditions, those requiring regular medical care, and those with mobility limitations are particularly vulnerable. The lack of convenient and affordable transportation can create a cycle of poor health. This can have a ripple effect on the community.

**Moving to Maxton and Healthcare Considerations:**

For those considering moving to Maxton, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the transportation options available, the distance to medical facilities, and the cost of medical transportation services.

It is essential to assess individual healthcare needs and determine if the available transportation options meet those needs. This includes considering the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and the ability to afford transportation costs.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of Maxton is directly influenced by the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare access. While personal vehicles are the primary mode of transport, the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services pose significant challenges. Addressing these transportation barriers is critical for improving the health and well-being of the community. Improvements to roadways, expansion of public transportation options, and increased availability of affordable medical transportation services are essential steps toward enhancing healthcare access and improving the overall health score for Maxton residents.