27704, Durham, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27704, Durham, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.19 percent of residents in 27704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Duke Regional Hospital with a distance of 1.63 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Durham's 27704

Choosing a new home, particularly for those managing asthma, demands meticulous planning. Beyond the allure of Durham, North Carolina, and the vibrant life within ZIP code 27704, lies the critical question: How easily can you access healthcare? This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape, examining the accessibility of medical facilities for residents, prioritizing those with respiratory sensitivities. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of how individuals can successfully navigate the commute to healthcare, ensuring their health needs are met with minimal stress.

The 27704 ZIP code, encompassing a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods, is strategically positioned in Durham. However, healthcare access isn't simply about proximity on a map. It's about the practical realities of transportation, the efficiency of travel times, and the availability of resources for those managing chronic conditions. This analysis will focus on the major hospitals and urgent care facilities serving the area, evaluating the various transportation options available.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Healthcare**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial. Duke University Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is generally accessible via several routes. From the heart of 27704, the most direct route often involves navigating **US-15/501 (Cameron Boulevard)**, a bustling thoroughfare. Drive times can fluctuate dramatically, especially during peak hours. Expect delays during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and evenings, when traffic congestion is common.

Another option is **Erwin Road**, which provides a less congested alternative, though it may add a few minutes to the journey. For those residing in the northern parts of 27704, **Hillsborough Road (NC-10)** offers a route to Duke, although it also experiences traffic congestion. The **Durham Freeway (NC-147)** can be a faster option, but it requires careful navigation of on-ramps and off-ramps, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

UNC Hospitals, another significant healthcare provider, is accessible via **US-15/501** and **Erwin Road**. Again, traffic conditions are paramount. The drive time to UNC Hospitals can be slightly longer than to Duke, depending on the specific location within 27704. The presence of multiple routes, however, provides flexibility, allowing residents to choose the path of least resistance, especially important for those experiencing an asthma flare-up.

Urgent care facilities, such as those operated by Duke Health and other providers, are scattered throughout the area. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, offering a convenient option for non-emergency medical needs. However, even a short drive can feel daunting during an asthma exacerbation.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Durham's public transit system, GoDurham, provides an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the 27704 area, connecting residents to major healthcare facilities. The **11, 11B, 12, and 12A** routes are particularly relevant, offering access to Duke University Hospital and surrounding medical offices. The **5** route provides access to UNC Hospitals.

While public transit offers a cost-effective option, it's essential to consider the travel time. Bus rides can be significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours. Furthermore, the frequency of buses can vary, impacting the overall accessibility of healthcare. Individuals with asthma must also consider the potential for exposure to allergens and irritants on public transit.

GoDurham is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and designated seating is available. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, including those experiencing severe asthma symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another transportation alternative. These services offer on-demand transportation, allowing residents to request a ride to a healthcare facility at any time. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option, particularly for those who don't own a car or prefer not to drive.

However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, especially during peak hours. Additionally, the availability of ride-sharing services may vary depending on the time of day and the location within 27704. Individuals with asthma should also consider the potential for exposure to allergens in ride-sharing vehicles.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and Firstat, specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to healthcare appointments. Medical transportation services can be a valuable resource for individuals with severe asthma or mobility limitations.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Asthma Score" isn't a single number; it's a holistic assessment considering multiple factors. Drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options all contribute to the overall score. The score also considers the individual's specific needs and preferences.

For example, an individual who relies on public transit may prioritize routes with frequent service and ADA accessibility. Someone with a car may prioritize drive times and parking availability. Those with severe asthma may prioritize medical transportation services.

Moving to Durham, and specifically to 27704, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The transportation landscape is diverse, offering a range of options to suit different needs. By understanding the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access, ensuring their well-being in their new community. The "Asthma Score" is a reminder that transportation is a crucial element of healthcare access, and careful planning is essential for managing asthma effectively.