27521, Coats, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27521, Coats, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.74 percent of residents in 27521 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wakemed, Cary Hospital with a distance of 23.80 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27521

The journey to healthcare in Coats, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27521) presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. Assessing the ease of access to medical care, particularly for those with chronic conditions, requires a nuanced understanding of the available **transportation** options. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, to help residents and prospective movers make informed decisions about their **healthcare access**.

Coats, a rural community nestled in Harnett County, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. This geographical positioning significantly influences the **transportation** landscape and, consequently, the ability of individuals with hypertension to receive timely and consistent medical attention. The "Hypertension Score" considers factors such as travel time, cost, convenience, and accessibility, especially for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of **transportation**. The most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. From Coats, the primary arteries leading to medical providers are US-401, NC-27, and US-421. These roads connect Coats to larger towns like Dunn, Lillington, and Sanford, which house a variety of medical practices, hospitals, and specialist clinics.

Drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to the Harnett Health Betsy Johnson Hospital in Dunn, for instance, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via US-401, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, or in the event of an accident, this commute could easily extend to 45 minutes or longer. Similarly, a visit to a specialist in Raleigh, approximately 45-60 minutes away via US-401 and I-40, requires careful planning to accommodate potential delays.

The condition of the roads themselves is also a factor. While US-401 and US-421 are generally well-maintained, local roads can be subject to potholes and other hazards, particularly after inclement weather. This can pose a challenge for individuals with hypertension, as rough roads can exacerbate physical discomfort and potentially impact blood pressure.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Coats are limited. Harnett County operates a public transit system, but its services are primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. The system operates within Harnett County, and its routes are not designed for frequent trips to distant medical facilities.

The lack of robust public transit can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive, particularly the elderly or those with disabilities. The limited service frequency and the need for pre-booking can make it challenging to schedule appointments and attend follow-up visits.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration. The Harnett County transit system does offer accessible vehicles, but their availability may be limited, and booking well in advance is often necessary. This can create additional stress and logistical hurdles for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Coats area, but their availability can be inconsistent. The rural nature of the community means that drivers may not always be readily available, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings. This can be a significant drawback for individuals needing urgent care or regular appointments.

Medical **transportation** services provide a more specialized option for individuals with specific needs. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to transport individuals with mobility limitations or medical equipment. Several companies operate in the region, including:

* **Firstat Nursing Services:** Provides medical transportation, including wheelchair and stretcher transport.
* **Ambulette Services:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation for appointments and other healthcare-related needs.
* **Senior Transportation Services:** Specializes in providing **transportation** for seniors to medical appointments, errands, and social activities.

While medical **transportation** services offer a valuable solution, they often come with higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit. The expense can be a significant burden for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited insurance coverage.

**The "Hypertension Score" Framework**

To assess the ease of **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension in 27521, we can develop a hypothetical "Hypertension Score." This score would consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average travel time to the nearest primary care physician, hospital, and specialist clinics.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and cost of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical **transportation** services.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and safety of local roads.
* **Cost of **Transportation**:** The overall financial burden of accessing healthcare.

Each factor would be assigned a weighted value based on its impact on **healthcare access**. For example, drive time might be weighted more heavily than ride-sharing availability, as it is the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents.

**Moving to Coats: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering **moving to Coats**, the availability and accessibility of healthcare should be a paramount concern, particularly for those managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" can serve as a valuable tool for evaluating the suitability of the area.

Prospective residents should carefully research the location of medical providers, assess drive times, and explore all available **transportation** options. It is also essential to inquire about the availability of home healthcare services, which can provide in-home support for individuals with chronic conditions.

Individuals with hypertension should also consider the following:

* **Proximity to Emergency Services:** Ensure that the chosen location is within a reasonable distance of a hospital or urgent care facility.
* **Access to Pharmacies:** Identify convenient pharmacy locations for prescription refills.
* **Availability of Support Groups:** Explore the availability of local support groups for individuals with hypertension.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Consider the availability of opportunities for physical activity, such as walking trails or community centers, which can contribute to blood pressure management.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Navigating the **transportation** landscape in 27521 requires careful planning and consideration. While the area offers a peaceful, rural environment, **healthcare access** can be challenging, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

By understanding the available **transportation** options, assessing drive times, and exploring medical **transportation** services, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The "Hypertension Score" framework provides a valuable tool for evaluating the suitability of the area and ensuring that individuals with hypertension can receive the timely and consistent medical attention they require.