28371, Parkton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.94 percent of residents in 28371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Parkton, NC (ZIP Code 28371)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of Parkton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28371), focusing on transportation access to healthcare services. Understanding the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial for their overall well-being. This score considers various transportation options, travel times, and the availability of accessible services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this specific community.

The primary challenge for Parkton residents is its rural location. The town is relatively isolated, and while it offers a sense of peace and quiet, it also presents significant hurdles when it comes to healthcare access. The ability to reach medical professionals, hospitals, and specialized care is fundamentally tied to the transportation options available. This analysis will delve into the realities of navigating the area, considering factors like drive times, public transportation limitations, and the availability of alternative transport.

**Driving the Route to Wellness:**

For many Parkton residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates an understanding of the road networks and associated travel times. The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities often involves traveling on **NC Highway 211**, a vital artery connecting Parkton to surrounding towns and cities.

Driving to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, a major regional hospital, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey, covering approximately 25 miles, involves navigating **NC Highway 211** and eventually merging onto **Interstate 95**, a major north-south thoroughfare. While **I-95** offers a faster route, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

Alternatively, residents might choose to seek care at smaller clinics or urgent care facilities located in nearby towns like Lumberton or St. Pauls. These destinations, accessible via **NC Highway 211** and local roads, usually involve shorter drive times, generally ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. However, the availability and scope of services offered at these facilities may be limited compared to larger hospitals.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Parkton are severely limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. This lack of infrastructure disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While the county may offer some demand-response transportation services, such as dial-a-ride, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, further restricting healthcare access. The lack of fixed-route bus services, with designated stops and schedules, makes it difficult for residents to plan and execute trips to medical appointments.

The absence of robust public transportation underscores the need for alternative solutions and highlights the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles. For anyone **moving to Parkton**, this is a critical factor to consider.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability and reliability can vary. The presence of ride-sharing offers a potential solution for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require prior arrangements and may have specific eligibility requirements. While they offer a valuable service, the availability and scheduling constraints can still pose challenges.

The integration of ride-sharing and medical transportation services into the healthcare ecosystem is crucial for improving access. Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation companies could help streamline the process and reduce transportation barriers.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and medical facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the practical implementation of these requirements can vary.

When evaluating healthcare access, it is essential to consider the accessibility of public transportation, the availability of accessible parking at medical facilities, and the physical accessibility of buildings and examination rooms. The lack of accessible transportation options, such as wheelchair-accessible buses or vans, can significantly limit healthcare access for individuals with mobility impairments.

**The Overall Health Score:**

Given the factors discussed, the “Overall Health Score” for transportation access to healthcare in Parkton (ZIP code 28371) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities through driving, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services present significant challenges.

The score is influenced by the relatively long drive times to major hospitals, the lack of a robust public transit system, and the potential for high transportation costs. The score is also affected by the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, which offer alternative options but are not always readily accessible or affordable.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the “Overall Health Score” for Parkton residents, several key strategies are recommended. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including the expansion of fixed-route bus services and the provision of accessible vehicles, would be a significant step forward.

Exploring partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation companies to offer subsidized or free transportation services would also enhance healthcare access. Promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits and alleviate transportation barriers.

Finally, raising awareness about available transportation options and ensuring that all medical facilities are fully ADA-compliant are essential for creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare system. These actions will contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community, improving the quality of life for all Parkton residents. The choices of **moving to Parkton** must include careful consideration of these factors.