27712, Durham, North Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 27712, Durham, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.44 percent of residents in 27712 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Duke Regional Hospital with a distance of 3.90 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27712

The journey to healthcare in Durham's 27712 ZIP code, a tapestry woven with residential pockets and commercial hubs, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing asthma. This analysis, an “Asthma Score” write-up, considers the multifaceted landscape of transportation, a critical element in ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all crucial factors influencing healthcare access for those considering moving to Durham or already residing in this vibrant community.

The geography of 27712, encompassing areas like South Durham and parts of Research Triangle Park, necessitates understanding the major arteries of transportation. Driving remains a primary mode of accessing healthcare facilities. Rush hour on Interstate 40 (I-40) and the Durham Freeway (NC-147) can significantly extend travel times, particularly during weekday commutes. A trip to Duke University Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from the southern reaches of 27712, might take 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions, but could easily stretch to 30-45 minutes during peak traffic. Similarly, accessing UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, though outside the immediate ZIP code, requires navigating I-40, adding another layer of potential delay.

Navigating local roads like US-15/501, often congested, further complicates matters. The variability in drive times underscores the importance of planning and accounting for potential delays, especially for individuals with asthma who require prompt medical attention. The accessibility of healthcare is directly impacted by the unpredictability of these routes.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative, presents its own set of considerations. GoDurham, the city's bus system, provides service within 27712. Several routes, including the 5, 6, and 7, connect residential areas to key healthcare facilities like Duke University Hospital and various clinics. However, bus travel inherently involves longer travel times due to scheduled stops and potential transfers. A bus trip from a location in the southern part of 27712 to Duke Hospital could take upwards of an hour, a considerable duration for someone experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. GoDurham buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and priority seating. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating bus stops can vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. The presence of sidewalks, curb cuts, and well-maintained bus shelters directly impacts the usability of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations, a relevant consideration for those managing asthma.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible option, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. The availability of these services within 27712 is generally good, although surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs. For individuals with asthma, the convenience of a ride-sharing service can be invaluable, particularly in situations where driving is not feasible or public transit is impractical. However, the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within the vehicle, such as cigarette smoke or pet dander, should be considered.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs, offering specialized transportation options. Companies like CareRide and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs that necessitate specialized transport. The availability and cost of these services should be factored into the overall healthcare access assessment.

The Asthma Score for 27712 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of these transportation factors. The score would be influenced by several key elements: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the individual's personal circumstances, including their ability to drive, their access to a vehicle, and their financial resources.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a fundamental aspect of the score. Living closer to a hospital or clinic naturally improves access. The concentration of medical facilities within the 27712 ZIP code and its surrounding areas is a positive factor. Duke University Hospital, for instance, offers comprehensive asthma care.

The reliability of transportation is another critical component. The predictability of drive times, the frequency and coverage of public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the score. The more reliable and efficient the transportation options, the higher the score.

Individual circumstances play a significant role. The ability to drive, access to a vehicle, and financial resources all influence the individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape. Those with limited mobility or financial constraints may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 27712 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area boasts a strong healthcare infrastructure, the transportation challenges, particularly during peak hours, can impact healthcare access for individuals with asthma. Careful consideration of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport is crucial for those seeking to move to Durham or already residing in this community. Planning for potential delays, exploring all available transportation options, and proactively addressing individual needs are essential steps in ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare, ultimately improving the quality of life for those managing asthma in 27712. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is a key determinant of healthcare access and overall well-being.