28375, Proctorville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28375, Proctorville, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.47 percent of residents in 28375 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Proctorville, NC (ZIP Code 28375)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when assessing the overall health of a community. For residents of Proctorville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28375), the ability to reach medical facilities is a critical factor in their well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare, considering various transportation options, drive times, and available resources. This is especially pertinent for those considering **moving to Proctorville**, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

Proctorville, a small town in Robeson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town's rural setting necessitates a dependence on personal **transportation** or alternative methods to reach essential medical services. The geographical layout, coupled with the availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services, shapes the overall health landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transport for healthcare access in Proctorville is the personal vehicle. The time required to reach various medical facilities is significantly influenced by the road network. Residents typically rely on US-74, a major east-west artery, and NC-72, which runs north-south. These highways provide the primary routes to larger towns and cities where hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services are located.

For instance, a drive to Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey often involves navigating US-74 East. Accessing facilities in Whiteville, such as Columbus Regional Healthcare System, requires traveling west on US-74, with a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes. Smaller clinics and doctor's offices may be found closer to Proctorville, reducing travel times, but specialized care often necessitates longer drives.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While US-74 and NC-72 are generally well-maintained, local roads can vary, potentially adding to travel times and creating challenges for those with mobility issues. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can also impact drive times, especially around Lumberton.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Proctorville are limited. Robeson County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and frequency may not adequately serve the healthcare needs of all residents. Information regarding specific routes and schedules is often available through the Robeson County Transit website.

The availability of public transit is particularly crucial for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The Robeson County Transit system does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the coverage area and frequency of service may not always align with the demands of healthcare appointments, potentially creating barriers to timely medical attention.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their presence and reliability can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which may be lower in rural areas like Proctorville. This can lead to longer wait times and higher fares, potentially making ride-sharing an impractical option for routine healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized transportation. Companies such as First Choice Medical Transport and others operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, adding to the overall expense of healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access and its Impact:**

The combination of drive times, public transportation limitations, and the variability of ride-sharing services paints a picture of moderate healthcare access in Proctorville. While the presence of major highways allows for relatively quick access to larger medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges for certain segments of the population.

The overall health score is influenced by this accessibility. Residents who have reliable **transportation** have better access to healthcare. However, those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations may experience difficulties, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, impacting their health outcomes. The availability of medical transport services helps, but the associated costs can be a burden.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in Proctorville requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding the public transit system, increasing the frequency of routes, and ensuring wider ADA accessibility would benefit the community. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for healthcare appointments could also be considered.

Promoting awareness of medical transport services and educating residents about their availability is also crucial. Furthermore, encouraging the establishment of more local clinics and healthcare providers in Proctorville would reduce drive times and improve access for all residents.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Proctorville is moderate. While the presence of major roadways allows for access to larger medical facilities, limitations in public transportation and the variability of ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents. Individuals considering **moving to Proctorville** should carefully consider these factors when assessing the overall quality of life and the ease of obtaining healthcare. The community's health is directly tied to its ability to connect residents with the care they need.