27014, Cooleemee, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27014, Cooleemee, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.49 percent of residents in 27014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is W.G. (Bill) Hefner Salisbury Va Medical Center (Salsbury) with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27014 (Cooleemee, North Carolina)**

The journey to healthcare, a critical component of overall well-being, is often complicated by the intricacies of transportation. In the quaint town of Cooleemee, North Carolina (ZIP code 27014), where the pace of life often mirrors the gentle flow of the South Yadkin River, the accessibility of medical services becomes a significant factor, especially for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, providing a "Hypertension Score" for residents of Cooleemee.

Cooleemee, nestled in Davie County, offers a unique blend of rural charm and a growing population. As individuals consider moving to Cooleemee, understanding the practicalities of accessing healthcare is essential. This assessment will examine the primary modes of transportation, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking timely and convenient medical care.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many Cooleemee residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The primary artery connecting Cooleemee to surrounding areas is Interstate 40 (I-40), a major east-west thoroughfare. Access to I-40 is typically via US-64, a well-maintained road that provides a direct route to the interstate.

Reaching the nearest major hospitals, such as Wake Forest Baptist Health - Davie Medical Center in Bermuda Run (approximately 15-20 minutes) or Novant Health Rowan Medical Center in Salisbury (approximately 30-40 minutes), involves navigating these roadways. The drive times can fluctuate depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours. The routes are generally straightforward, but the distance necessitates careful planning, especially for those with mobility limitations or chronic health conditions.

Smaller, local roads like NC-801 and Mocksville Road offer alternative routes, but they are generally slower and may not be suitable for emergency situations. The condition of these roads is generally good, but residents should be aware of potential delays due to construction or inclement weather. The dependence on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership and maintenance for healthcare access in Cooleemee.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Cooleemee are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. Davie County does offer a public transportation service, Davie County Transit, but the routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily designed to serve the county as a whole, not necessarily offering direct routes to healthcare facilities.

The Davie County Transit system operates with a focus on providing transportation to essential services. While it may offer routes that intersect with healthcare facilities, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time. The system does adhere to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limitations in route coverage and frequency make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many seeking regular medical appointments.

For those considering moving to Cooleemee and relying on public transit, thorough research into the current routes and schedules is crucial. The availability of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Cooleemee is variable. While they may be present, the response times and the cost can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, often operated by private companies, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility challenges. While these services can provide a valuable lifeline, they often come with a higher cost than other transportation options.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation. While they offer potential solutions, their reliability and affordability must be carefully considered. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can create significant barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources or mobility challenges.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Implications**

Based on the assessment of transportation options, a "Hypertension Score" for Cooleemee (ZIP code 27014) would reflect the following:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While major hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays can impact access.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The infrequent routes and potential for lengthy travel times significantly restrict access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** Variable. Availability and cost can be unpredictable, adding to the challenges of accessing healthcare.

**Overall, the Hypertension Score for Cooleemee would be moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with transportation and its impact on healthcare access.** Residents with hypertension, or other chronic conditions requiring regular medical attention, must carefully consider their transportation options.

**Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access for Cooleemee residents, several recommendations are crucial:

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of Davie County Transit routes, with a specific focus on healthcare facilities, would significantly improve accessibility.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educating residents about the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, particularly for medical appointments, could provide an alternative transportation option.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Providing financial assistance or subsidies for medical transport services could make them more accessible and affordable for those in need.
* **Encourage Community Partnerships:** Collaborating with local healthcare providers and community organizations to offer transportation assistance programs could help bridge the gap in healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

The ability to access timely and convenient healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community well-being. In Cooleemee, North Carolina, the transportation landscape significantly influences healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful environment and a strong sense of community, the limitations in public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges for residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. By addressing these transportation barriers, Cooleemee can improve healthcare access, enhance the quality of life for its residents, and create a more welcoming environment for those considering moving to Cooleemee.