28625, Statesville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 28625, Statesville, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.18 percent of residents in 28625 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Iredell Memorial Hospital Inc with a distance of 2.44 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Statesville (ZIP Code 28625)

Considering a move to Statesville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28625), and managing arthritis? This assessment dives into the accessibility of healthcare, specifically considering the challenges posed by arthritis and its impact on **transportation**. We'll evaluate the "Arthritis Score" based on the ease of getting to medical appointments, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. This information is crucial for anyone prioritizing **healthcare access** when **moving to Statesville**.

The foundation of a good Arthritis Score rests on proximity to quality healthcare. Statesville offers a range of medical facilities, including Iredell Memorial Hospital, several urgent care clinics, and numerous specialist practices. However, the effectiveness of these resources is diminished if they are difficult to reach, especially for individuals with mobility limitations common with arthritis.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The Arthritis Score considers the drive times to key healthcare providers from various points within ZIP Code 28625. Remember, drive times are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic, weather, and time of day.

From central Statesville, Iredell Memorial Hospital is generally accessible within a 5-10 minute drive, depending on the specific location. The primary routes involve US-70 (East Broad Street/West Broad Street), a major thoroughfare, and I-77, offering quick access for those living closer to the interstate. US-21 (Wilkesboro Highway/Morrison Street) also provides access, especially for residents on the western side of town.

However, the convenience of driving can be significantly impacted by arthritis. Pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion can make driving challenging, especially during flare-ups. Consider the ease of parking, the distance from the parking spot to the clinic entrance, and the potential for navigating stairs or uneven surfaces.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Statesville's public transit system, while present, is not extensive. The primary service is provided by the Statesville Transit System (STS), offering fixed-route bus service. However, the coverage area is limited, and the frequency of service may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments.

STS buses operate on several routes, but direct access to all healthcare providers may not be available. Passengers might need to transfer routes, increasing travel time and the physical strain on individuals with arthritis.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features are a critical component of the Arthritis Score. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the availability of these features and the ability of the system to accommodate individual needs should be verified directly with STS. Contacting STS to confirm the accessibility of specific routes and the availability of assistance is highly recommended.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. The availability of these services in Statesville is generally good, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can add up, especially for frequent appointments.

The Arthritis Score takes into account the ease of requesting a ride, the wait times, and the comfort of the vehicles. Individuals with arthritis should consider requesting vehicles with ample space and comfortable seating.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door **transportation**, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical equipment.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Statesville area, including local providers and regional companies. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with getting in and out of vehicles or who need specialized equipment. Researching and comparing the services offered by different medical transport providers is essential. Consider factors like the types of vehicles available, the level of assistance provided, and the cost.

**Assessing the Score: Considerations for the Arthritis Patient**

The Arthritis Score for Statesville, considering **healthcare access**, is moderate. While the presence of healthcare facilities is positive, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of driving impact the overall score.

The score is influenced by factors like the severity of arthritis, the individual's mobility limitations, and their financial resources. Individuals with severe arthritis who cannot drive and have limited access to ride-sharing or medical transport may find accessing healthcare more challenging.

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and physical therapy. These services can reduce the frequency of trips to medical facilities, improving the overall quality of life.

**Making an Informed Decision: Planning for the Future**

Before **moving to Statesville**, individuals with arthritis should thoroughly research the **transportation** options and the accessibility of healthcare providers. Contacting STS to inquire about specific route accessibility and availability of assistance is essential.

Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers. Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences and the ease of access to these facilities.

Ultimately, the Arthritis Score is a personalized assessment. It is crucial to consider individual needs, preferences, and financial resources when evaluating the suitability of Statesville for someone with arthritis. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision and ensure they have adequate **healthcare access** in their new community.