27208, Bennett, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27208, Bennett, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.80 percent of residents in 27208 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Randolph Hospital with a distance of 18.31 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bennett, NC (ZIP Code 27208)

The heart of Randolph County, Bennett, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27208), presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly concerning the management of hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of accessing medical care within this rural community, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for individuals managing high blood pressure. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents, especially those considering moving to Bennett.

Bennett’s geographical isolation, while contributing to its charm, significantly influences the availability of healthcare resources and the ease with which residents can access them. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in surrounding towns, necessitating reliance on various transportation methods. This dependence underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, which demands regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many Bennett residents, the most immediate transportation option is personal vehicles. The drive times to essential healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the specific route taken. The primary roadways serving Bennett are US-220, NC-24/27, and several county roads.

To reach Randolph Hospital in Asheboro, a crucial healthcare provider, residents typically navigate a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes. This journey involves traveling along NC-24/27, a route that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. The condition of the roads is generally good, but occasional potholes and narrow shoulders can pose challenges, especially for those with mobility limitations or during inclement weather.

For more specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents may need to travel further afield. Duke Health in Durham, a major medical center, is roughly an hour and a half away, requiring a drive along US-220, then onto I-85. This longer commute demands careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour. Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem is another viable option, taking a similar amount of time, with routes that utilize NC-22 and US-421.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 27208 are extremely limited. Randolph County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily for essential trips, such as employment, rather than frequent medical appointments. The system’s reach into Bennett is sporadic, with limited service frequency and potentially lengthy wait times.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the public transit system in Randolph County should be investigated. While the system strives to provide accessible services, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations may be limited, posing a significant barrier for individuals with mobility impairments. This is a crucial consideration for those with hypertension, as some individuals may experience mobility issues due to the condition or its treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Randolph County area, including Bennett. However, their availability and reliability can vary significantly, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation, and MedTrans Corporation, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services typically offer door-to-door service, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior booking is usually required.

**The Impact on Hypertension Management**

The transportation challenges in Bennett have a direct impact on the management of hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling high blood pressure. Limited transportation options can make it difficult for residents to attend scheduled appointments, pick up prescriptions, and access necessary healthcare services.

For individuals considering moving to Bennett, it is crucial to factor in the transportation limitations when assessing healthcare access. The availability of reliable transportation should be a primary consideration, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions.

**Assessing the "Hypertension Score"**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for Bennett, NC (ZIP Code 27208) would likely be moderate. While personal vehicle ownership offers a degree of flexibility, the drive times to healthcare facilities and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternatives, but cost and reliability remain concerns.

**Recommendations for Residents**

Residents of Bennett with hypertension should proactively plan their healthcare transportation. This includes scheduling appointments in advance, exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and considering the potential need for assistance with transportation from family, friends, or community organizations.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Bennett**

The journey to healthcare in Bennett, NC, requires thoughtful navigation. While the community offers a peaceful and close-knit environment, access to healthcare demands careful planning and a clear understanding of available transportation options. For those considering moving to Bennett, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial to ensure they can effectively manage their health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of proactively addressing transportation barriers to ensure that residents with hypertension can receive the timely and consistent care they need.