28443, Hampstead, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28443, Hampstead, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.56 percent of residents in 28443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.54 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hampstead, NC (ZIP Code 28443)

Considering a move to the charming coastal town of Hampstead, North Carolina (ZIP code 28443)? If you're managing arthritis, a crucial factor in your decision-making process is **healthcare access**. This "Arthritis Score" write-up will delve into the **transportation** landscape, providing a detailed assessment of your ability to commute to healthcare facilities, specifically those offering rheumatology services, in and around Hampstead. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, empowering you to make an informed decision about your **healthcare access** needs.

The primary concern for anyone with arthritis is ease of access to medical appointments. Pain, stiffness, and fatigue can make even short journeys challenging. Therefore, the closer your healthcare providers are, and the more accessible the **transportation** options, the better your quality of life. This assessment considers the major healthcare providers in the region and the practicalities of getting there.

Hampstead, nestled between Wilmington and Jacksonville, offers a blend of coastal living and a slower pace. However, its relative isolation from major metropolitan areas presents unique **transportation** challenges. The most common mode of travel is by personal vehicle.

Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation** in this area. From Hampstead, the most direct route to Wilmington, where you'll find the majority of specialist care, is via US-17 South. This highway is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be heavy, especially during peak commuting hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes to reach the New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) system, which includes Wilmington Health facilities.

Another option is to use NC-210 East, which connects Hampstead to Jacksonville. This route is less congested than US-17, but it adds significant travel time to reach healthcare facilities. Driving to Jacksonville for rheumatology appointments is not recommended, as it is a longer commute.

For those without a personal vehicle, the public **transportation** options are limited. The Wave Transit system primarily serves the Wilmington area and does not extend directly into Hampstead. This significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those reliant on public transit.

The Wave Transit system does offer some routes that get you close to Hampstead, but you would need to use a combination of routes and then walk or find another means of **transportation** to reach your final destination. This is not an ideal situation for someone with arthritis. The routes are: Route 101 (Wrightsville Beach), Route 201 (College Road), and Route 205 (Market Street). These routes do not have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hampstead area. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a significant challenge for **healthcare access**, as you can't always guarantee a ride to your appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, making it a less affordable option for frequent medical visits.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and private medical transport providers, are an alternative. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking, which can be problematic for urgent appointments.

When **moving to Hampstead**, it's essential to factor in the distance to healthcare facilities and the available **transportation** options. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can pose challenges for those managing arthritis.

For individuals who prioritize **healthcare access**, living closer to Wilmington or ensuring reliable access to a personal vehicle is highly recommended. Consider the potential impact of traffic on US-17 South, especially during peak commuting times.

The closest rheumatology specialists are located in Wilmington, within the NHRMC system. Wilmington Health also offers a range of specialists. Be sure to contact these facilities to inquire about appointment availability and the specific services they offer.

When assessing your Arthritis Score, consider the following:

* **Drive Time:** Evaluate your ability to comfortably drive to Wilmington (30-45 minutes) or other healthcare providers.
* **Public Transit:** Recognize the limited availability of public **transportation** and its unsuitability for those with mobility issues.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Assess the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Medical Transport:** Research the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the accessibility features of healthcare facilities, such as ramps, elevators, and accessible parking.

Before **moving to Hampstead**, it's crucial to assess your individual needs and preferences. If you require frequent rheumatology appointments or have difficulty with mobility, you might find that living closer to Wilmington or ensuring reliable **transportation** is essential for maintaining your quality of life. Remember, the goal is to ensure easy **healthcare access**, allowing you to focus on managing your arthritis and enjoying the coastal lifestyle. This detailed assessment should assist you in making an informed decision.