27013, Cleveland, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27013, Cleveland, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.57 percent of residents in 27013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.62 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 27013

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates seamless access to healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 27013, examining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, specifically for those managing hypertension. We'll explore the complexities of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare access in this area. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Cleveland, as they may need to factor in transportation considerations.

ZIP code 27013, a region often characterized by its rural nature, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles, necessitating a thorough understanding of road networks and potential travel times. The major thoroughfares that serve the area include Interstate 77 (I-77) and US Route 52. These highways are vital arteries, connecting residents to larger towns and cities where specialized medical facilities are often located. Local roads, such as NC Highway 903 and several county roads, provide access to smaller clinics and primary care physicians.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. The distance to the nearest hospital or specialist can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely medical attention. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can exacerbate these challenges. For instance, a routine appointment at a cardiology clinic in a neighboring city could involve a drive of 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-77. Emergency situations, of course, demand even faster response times. The efficiency of emergency medical services, including ambulance response times, is also crucial.

Public transportation options in ZIP code 27013 are limited, which can create difficulties for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. There are no readily available public bus routes that directly serve the area. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who are transportation-disadvantaged. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration, especially for patients with mobility limitations. The absence of wheelchair-accessible buses or paratransit services further compounds the challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, but their availability and affordability can vary. In rural areas, ride-sharing services may be less readily available than in urban centers. Surge pricing, which increases fares during periods of high demand, can make these services cost-prohibitive for some patients. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments is also a concern. Patients need a dependable mode of transportation to ensure they arrive on time for their appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services can vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the distance to the healthcare facility.

The Hypertension Score in ZIP code 27013 is significantly influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The lack of robust public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transportation services and the efficiency of emergency medical services can partially mitigate these challenges, but they do not fully address the underlying issues of healthcare access. The score reflects the degree of difficulty residents face in reaching healthcare facilities, which can directly impact their ability to manage hypertension effectively.

For individuals considering moving to Cleveland, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The availability of healthcare access, including the ease of getting to medical appointments, is a significant factor in quality of life. Researching the specific transportation options available in the area of interest, including drive times to hospitals and clinics, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services, is essential. This information will allow prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The Hypertension Score is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by residents of 27013 in their pursuit of optimal health. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare access. Addressing the limitations of transportation options, such as expanding public transit services, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and supporting medical transportation programs, can significantly improve the Hypertension Score and enhance the overall well-being of the community. This is especially crucial for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, where consistent access to medical care is paramount.