28383, Rowland, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28383, Rowland, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.55 percent of residents in 28383 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 15.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Rowland, NC (ZIP Code 28383)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of Rowland, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28383), focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We will delve into the nuances of commute times, available transportation options, and the overall feasibility of reaching medical facilities. This analysis will be particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Rowland, highlighting the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

Rowland, a small town nestled in Robeson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relative isolation and dependence on personal vehicles significantly influence the ease with which residents can reach doctors' offices, hospitals, and other essential medical services. This analysis will explore the current state of transportation infrastructure and services to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Rowland is the personal vehicle. The town's location necessitates reliance on roadways to reach healthcare providers. The primary arteries for travel are US Route 301, a major north-south thoroughfare, and NC Highway 41, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads are generally well-maintained but can experience congestion during peak hours or due to unforeseen circumstances.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination. The closest options include the Southeastern Health System’s clinics and the Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, approximately 15 to 20 minutes away via US 301. However, specialized care or more comprehensive services might require travel to larger regional centers, such as those in Fayetteville (about an hour's drive via I-95 and US 401) or even Wilmington (a two-hour drive via I-95 and US 74).

The condition of the roads, including potential potholes or construction delays, can impact commute times. Furthermore, traffic volume, especially during rush hour, can add significant time to travel. These factors must be considered when assessing the overall healthcare access score for Rowland residents.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Rowland are limited. Robeson County currently offers a public transit system, Robeson County Public Transportation (RCPT). This system provides demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. The availability of fixed-route services is nonexistent within the immediate vicinity of Rowland.

RCPT vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access the service. However, the limited hours of operation and the requirement for advance booking can pose challenges for those with urgent medical needs or unpredictable schedules.

The lack of robust public transportation options in Rowland significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or have limited mobility. This deficiency contributes to a lower overall health score for the community.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader Robeson County area, but their availability in Rowland itself can be inconsistent. The reliance on these services for healthcare access can be problematic due to potential delays, surge pricing, and the uncertainty of availability, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. These services are crucial for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services.

The cost of these services can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the availability of medical transport services can be strained during peak demand or in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Rowland:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, the "Overall Health Score" for Rowland, NC (ZIP Code 28383) is moderate. While residents have access to essential healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services present challenges.

Individuals considering moving to Rowland should carefully assess their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare. Those who do not own a vehicle or have limited mobility may face significant difficulties in reaching medical appointments and other essential services.

The availability of medical transport services and the proximity to healthcare facilities in Lumberton offer some reassurance. However, the potential for longer travel times to access specialized care and the cost of transportation services must be considered.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options negatively impacts the overall health score. The community could benefit from increased investment in public transportation, ride-sharing initiatives, and programs that support access to medical transportation services.

**Conclusion:**

Healthcare access in Rowland, NC, is intricately linked to transportation infrastructure and services. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options present challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects these realities, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents can access the healthcare they need. For those considering moving to Rowland, a thorough evaluation of transportation needs and access to healthcare is crucial to ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.