27520, Clayton, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27520, Clayton, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.36 percent of residents in 27520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wakemed, Cary Hospital with a distance of 19.41 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Clayton, NC (ZIP Code 27520)**

Considering a move to Clayton, North Carolina (ZIP code 27520)? This write-up provides a detailed analysis of healthcare access for residents managing hypertension, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. We'll explore drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension in this growing community.

The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount for individuals managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and timely interventions are crucial to controlling blood pressure and preventing serious complications. This analysis examines the transportation landscape in and around Clayton, NC, to determine how easily residents can reach essential medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary roadways serving Clayton include US-70, NC-42, and NC-42 East. These roads facilitate access to various medical facilities. Driving times to healthcare providers are critical. Traffic patterns vary, particularly during peak commuting hours.

To reach the nearest hospital, Johnston Health Clayton, a drive from the center of Clayton (around Main Street) typically takes approximately 5-10 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This short drive time is a significant advantage for residents needing immediate medical attention. However, accessing specialized care might require travel to Raleigh, approximately 20-30 minutes away via US-70. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

For appointments at clinics or specialist offices within Clayton, the drive times are generally short, often less than 15 minutes. However, residents should factor in potential delays due to school zones, construction, or rush-hour congestion.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Clayton are limited, primarily relying on the Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS). JCATS offers fixed-route and demand-response services. However, service frequency and coverage can be restricted, especially during evenings and weekends.

The availability of public transit for healthcare access is a crucial factor for individuals without personal vehicles. JCATS routes serving Clayton may connect to medical facilities, but the frequency of these routes might not be sufficient for timely appointments or emergency situations.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. JCATS vehicles are equipped with ADA features, including ramps and lifts, ensuring accessibility for riders with disabilities. However, the limited route network and potential for longer travel times could pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Clayton, providing an alternative transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While medical transport offers convenience and specialized care, it comes with a higher cost compared to ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Facilities and Access**

Clayton boasts several healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and Johnston Health Clayton. The presence of these facilities within the community enhances healthcare access for residents. However, the availability of specific specialists and services may vary, necessitating travel to Raleigh or other nearby cities for specialized care.

The accessibility of these facilities via various transportation modes is a critical determinant of healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension require regular check-ups, medication management, and potential emergency care. The ability to easily reach these services is essential for maintaining their health and well-being.

**Factors Influencing the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Clayton (ZIP code 27520) considers several factors, including:

* **Drive Times:** The proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of navigating roadways.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of JCATS services.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Facility Density:** The number and types of medical facilities within Clayton.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities.

**Recommendations for Residents with Hypertension**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Clayton, NC, careful planning is essential.

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your transportation requirements based on your medical needs, including frequency of appointments and the availability of specialized care.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Research the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Choose a residence that provides convenient access to healthcare facilities, minimizing drive times and maximizing transportation options.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for emergency transportation, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital and having readily available transportation options.
* **Stay Informed:** Stay updated on changes to public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and healthcare facility services.

**Conclusion**

Clayton, NC, offers a mix of advantages and challenges for individuals with hypertension regarding healthcare access. The short drive times to Johnston Health Clayton are a significant benefit. However, the limited public transit options and the need to travel to Raleigh for specialized care present challenges. By carefully considering transportation options, proximity to healthcare facilities, and planning for potential emergencies, residents with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in Clayton and maintain their health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" for Clayton is a complex evaluation, but with informed planning and a proactive approach, residents can thrive in this growing community. Moving to Clayton offers opportunities, but careful consideration of healthcare access is crucial.