The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28533, Cherry Point, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
94.56 percent of residents in 28533 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 14.60 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 28533, Cherry Point, North Carolina
Arthritis Score | 78 |
---|---|
People Score | 95 |
Provider Score | 71 |
Hospital Score | 50 |
Travel Score | 18 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 28533 | Cherry Point | North Carolina |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 19.36 |
2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 40.83 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 37.67 |
Vehicular Access in 28533, Cherry Point, North Carolina
## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28533
Moving to a new area, especially when managing a condition like arthritis, demands careful consideration of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 28533, home to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and the surrounding communities, providing insights into how easily individuals with arthritis can reach necessary medical appointments and services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking healthcare in this region.
The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 28533 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area is sprawling, and public transit options are limited. For residents without a car, or those whose arthritis limits their driving capabilities, the transportation landscape presents significant hurdles. This assessment will delve into the specifics, offering a nuanced understanding of the realities of accessing healthcare in this coastal North Carolina community.
**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**
The backbone of transportation in 28533 is the highway system. Accessing specialist care, particularly for arthritis, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like New Bern or Jacksonville. The primary route to New Bern, approximately 20 miles away, is via **US-70 East**. This highway is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours, potentially exacerbating pain and discomfort for individuals with arthritis. The drive typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
**NC-101** provides an alternative route to New Bern, offering a more scenic drive, but it is a two-lane road, and thus, is more vulnerable to traffic delays. This road is less suitable for those with limited mobility, as it lacks the wide shoulders and ease of access of the highway.
To reach Jacksonville, which is about 40 miles away, residents typically utilize **US-17 South**. This highway is generally well-maintained, but can be congested, especially during the summer months when tourist traffic increases. The drive to Jacksonville can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city.
The condition of the roads themselves is also a consideration. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poorly maintained roads can worsen arthritis symptoms. While the major highways are generally in good condition, local roads may present challenges, particularly for those with limited mobility.
**Public Transit: A Limited Network**
Public transportation options in 28533 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The **Craven Area Transportation System (CATS)** provides bus service within Craven County, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and do not comprehensively serve the entire ZIP code. The routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times.
The CATS system does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times can still make public transit a difficult option for those with arthritis. The lack of evening and weekend service further restricts healthcare access for those with appointments outside of typical working hours.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potentially more convenient alternative to public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transport services, such as **Care Ride** and **FirstLight Home Care**, are available in the area, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with assistance from trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent or unscheduled medical needs.
**Healthcare Access: A Multi-Faceted Challenge**
The overall "Arthritis Score" for 28533 reflects a mixed picture. While the major highways provide relatively easy access to larger medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose significant challenges for those with arthritis. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some relief, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.
For individuals considering moving to Cherry Point or the surrounding areas, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Factors such as the severity of their arthritis, their ability to drive, and their financial resources will all influence their ability to access healthcare.
**Recommendations for Improvement**
To improve healthcare access for individuals with arthritis in 28533, several steps could be taken. Expanding the CATS bus routes and increasing service frequency, particularly to connect with healthcare facilities, would be a significant improvement. Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing subsidies for those who need them, would also be beneficial.
Furthermore, healthcare providers could consider offering telehealth appointments, reducing the need for in-person visits. Promoting awareness of available medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those who qualify could also improve healthcare access.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Terrain**
The "Arthritis Score" for 28533 highlights the complexities of accessing healthcare in a rural and geographically dispersed area. While the region offers some access to healthcare services, the limitations of transportation options present significant challenges for those with arthritis. By understanding these challenges and exploring the available resources, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and navigate the terrain with greater confidence. The future of healthcare access in this area hinges on collaborative efforts to improve transportation options and make healthcare more accessible to all residents, regardless of their mobility limitations.
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