The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27244, Elon, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
69.89 percent of residents in 27244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alamance Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.71 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 27244, Elon, North Carolina
Asthma Score | 15 |
---|---|
People Score | 14 |
Provider Score | 49 |
Hospital Score | 30 |
Travel Score | 41 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 27244 | Elon | North Carolina |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.60 | 1.60 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 9.95 | 9.95 | 19.36 |
2 Cars | 36.18 | 36.18 | 40.83 |
3 or More Cars | 52.27 | 52.27 | 37.67 |
Vehicular Access in 27244, Elon, North Carolina
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Elon, NC (ZIP Code 27244)
The air hangs heavy with potential triggers for residents of Elon, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27244), especially those managing asthma. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare resources for asthma sufferers, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the 'Asthma Score,' a measure of how easily and safely individuals can reach medical care. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Elon, a town experiencing growth and change.
The foundation of good asthma management lies in consistent healthcare access. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and, crucially, rapid response to acute exacerbations. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is paramount. For those with asthma, the stress and physical exertion of reaching medical care can themselves trigger an attack. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of available transportation options is vital.
**Driving Times and Roadways:**
The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and around Elon are Interstate 85 (I-85), which provides a major north-south corridor, and US Highway 70, a vital east-west route. These highways, while efficient for longer distances, can present challenges. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend drive times. For example, a trip to the nearest major hospital, Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via I-85 South or US-70 East, but can easily stretch to 30 minutes or more during rush hour.
Other important roadways include NC-87, a north-south route that connects Elon to nearby towns, and University Drive, which provides access to Elon University and surrounding areas. These roads are generally less congested but may involve more stop-and-go traffic, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. The condition of the roads themselves, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also contribute to discomfort and stress for drivers and passengers.
The time factor is critical. An asthma emergency demands swift medical attention. Delays caused by traffic, road conditions, or parking difficulties can have serious consequences. The Asthma Score must account for these potential impediments to timely healthcare access.
**Public Transit Considerations:**
Public transportation options in the area are limited, which impacts the Asthma Score. The primary provider is the Burlington Transit (BT) system. While BT offers several routes, their frequency and coverage are restricted, particularly in the evenings and on weekends. This can be a significant barrier for individuals who rely on public transit.
Specific routes that might be relevant include the Route 1, which connects Burlington to Elon, and Route 2, which serves areas near Alamance Regional Medical Center. However, these routes may not operate frequently enough to meet the needs of those with asthma, especially during an emergency.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on BT buses are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. All BT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of ADA-accessible features does not fully address the challenges of public transit for asthma sufferers. The potential for exposure to allergens and irritants on the bus, coupled with the stress of navigating the system, can be problematic.
The Asthma Score must consider the limitations of public transit, including route frequency, coverage, and potential exposure to environmental triggers.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative to driving or public transit. Their availability in Elon is generally good, offering a convenient option for reaching medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips. The Asthma Score must account for the financial burden of relying on ride-sharing.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer specialized support for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions. These services, such as First Transit or LogistiCare, provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable for asthma sufferers, they may require pre-booking and have limited availability.
The Asthma Score needs to evaluate the accessibility, affordability, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
**Healthcare Access and Moving to Elon:**
The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score. Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care and specialized asthma treatment. The presence of local clinics and urgent care facilities in Elon provides additional options for routine care and urgent needs.
However, the Asthma Score must consider the potential for delays in accessing these facilities due to traffic congestion, limited public transit, or the availability of ride-sharing services. For individuals considering moving to Elon, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access is essential.
The Asthma Score should incorporate factors like the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized asthma care, and the ease of access to emergency services.
**Assessing the Asthma Score:**
The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 27244 is a complex evaluation. While the presence of major highways offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic delays create challenges.
The score should reflect the following:
* **Driving:** The ease of access via I-85 and US-70, balanced against the potential for traffic delays.
* **Public Transit:** The limited availability and frequency of Burlington Transit routes, and the potential for exposure to triggers.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The convenience and cost of Uber and Lyft.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability and accessibility of NEMT services.
* **Healthcare Facilities:** The proximity of hospitals, clinics, and urgent care facilities.
Ultimately, the Asthma Score for Elon, NC (ZIP Code 27244) suggests that while healthcare access is available, it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. For individuals with asthma, proactive planning is essential to ensure timely and safe access to medical care. The decision to move to Elon should involve a thorough assessment of personal transportation needs and a realistic understanding of the potential challenges. The goal is to minimize the impact of transportation barriers and maximize the ability to manage asthma effectively.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like