28369, Orrum, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28369, Orrum, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.25 percent of residents in 28369 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Orrum, NC (ZIP Code 28369)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Orrum, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28369), a rural community nestled in Robeson County, the journey to receive medical attention is often a significant factor impacting overall well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the complexities of transportation options and their influence on healthcare access for residents considering moving to Orrum or currently residing within the area.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Orrum hinges on several key factors: drive times to medical facilities, availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transport. These elements intertwine to create a multifaceted picture of healthcare access, influencing everything from preventative care to emergency response.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

For residents of Orrum, the car is often the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. The closest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in nearby towns, creating varying drive times depending on the specific destination.

Lumberton, approximately 10 miles east of Orrum, is a crucial healthcare hub. Accessing Southeastern Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital for the region, typically involves a drive along NC-72 East, a relatively well-maintained state highway. The drive, assuming normal traffic conditions, should take around 15-20 minutes.

Further afield, residents might need to travel to Fayetteville, approximately 40 miles north, for specialized care or services not available locally. This journey often involves utilizing I-95 North, a major interstate highway. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute.

Other destinations, such as specialized clinics or physician practices, may necessitate travel on secondary roads like NC-41 or local county roads, adding to the overall travel time and potentially increasing the risk of accidents. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Orrum are extremely limited. Robeson County operates a public transit system, but service frequency and route coverage are restricted. The availability of public transit is a critical component of healthcare access, especially for those who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive.

The Robeson County Transit system offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service is not a fixed-route system, and its availability depends on factors such as funding, staffing, and the geographic distribution of requests. The service may have limited operating hours, potentially restricting access to early morning or late evening appointments.

While the transit system is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the overall responsiveness of the system are crucial factors in determining its effectiveness. The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant challenge for healthcare access in Orrum.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Lumberton and Fayetteville areas, but their presence in Orrum itself is less consistent. The availability of these services can vary depending on driver availability and demand. While ride-sharing can offer a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including specialized ambulance services for emergency situations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

**The Overall Health Score: A Complex Equation**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Orrum, NC (28369) is moderate, reflecting a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, while providing flexibility, is offset by potential challenges.

The limited public transportation options, coupled with the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, create significant barriers for individuals without access to a car. The cost of medical transportation services further compounds the challenge for those with limited financial resources.

**Implications for Moving to Orrum**

For individuals considering moving to Orrum, understanding the complexities of healthcare access is crucial. Proximity to Lumberton and Fayetteville offers access to a range of medical services, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful planning.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who rely on public transit should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare services before making a move. Researching available medical transportation options and understanding the potential costs are also essential.

The "Overall Health Score" in Orrum can be improved by:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency, route coverage, and operating hours of the Robeson County Transit system would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing:** Encouraging ride-sharing services to expand their presence in Orrum would provide a more convenient and affordable transportation option.
* **Supporting Medical Transportation:** Providing financial assistance or subsidies for medical transportation services would help reduce the financial burden on vulnerable populations.
* **Community Education:** Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources would empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

By addressing these challenges and implementing strategic improvements, Orrum can enhance its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.