27531, Goldsboro, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27531, Goldsboro, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 27531 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.35 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Goldsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27531)

The journey to healthcare in Goldsboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27531), is a critical factor influencing the health and well-being of its residents, especially those managing hypertension. This write-up explores the landscape of transportation options available, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all impacting healthcare access. Understanding these elements is vital, particularly for individuals considering moving to Goldsboro, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical services.

Our focus centers on the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in hypertension management. The ability to quickly and reliably access appointments, medications, and follow-up care is paramount in controlling this chronic condition. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the challenges and advantages of each transportation mode.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

The primary arteries for transportation in Goldsboro are US-70, a major east-west thoroughfare, and US-117, running north-south. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating these roadways, especially when seeking specialized care. The congestion on US-70 during peak hours can significantly impact drive times, potentially increasing stress levels for individuals with hypertension.

The average drive time to the Wayne UNC Health Care, a prominent healthcare provider in the area, from various points within the 27531 ZIP code, is a key metric. From the western edge of the ZIP code, near the intersection of US-70 and NC-581, the drive to the hospital, located near the intersection of Wayne Memorial Drive and Medical Park Drive, could take approximately 10-15 minutes under ideal conditions. However, during rush hour, this time could easily extend to 20-25 minutes.

Driving to smaller clinics or specialist offices located off the main highways, such as those on Ash Street or William Street, might involve navigating local roads like Spence Avenue and Berkeley Boulevard. These routes, while shorter in distance, can be subject to traffic lights and slower speed limits, adding to the overall commute time. The condition of these roads, including potholes and inadequate lighting, can also influence the comfort and safety of the journey, particularly for those with mobility issues.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City**

Public transportation options in Goldsboro are limited, impacting the "Hypertension Score." The Wayne County Transit System provides bus services within the city limits. However, the routes are infrequent, and the coverage is not extensive, which presents a challenge for individuals needing to reach healthcare facilities.

The bus routes, while offering a potential alternative to driving, are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. The lack of dedicated routes to healthcare facilities, coupled with the infrequent schedules, makes public transit a less convenient option for many, especially those with urgent medical needs.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. All public transit vehicles must adhere to ADA guidelines, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the overall impact of public transit on healthcare access is diminished due to the limited route network and infrequent schedules. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the challenges posed by this mode of transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Goldsboro, offering a potentially more flexible transportation option. The availability of these services, however, can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Booking a ride for an early morning appointment or during peak hours might be challenging, impacting the reliability of this mode of transportation.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local providers, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance. The cost of medical transport, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The availability of medical transport services is an important consideration. The "Hypertension Score" accounts for the potential benefits of these specialized services, while also acknowledging the associated costs and potential limitations.

**The "Hypertension Score" Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 27531 is influenced by a combination of factors. Drive times, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact the score. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can pose challenges for individuals without access to a car.

The score also considers the availability and affordability of medical transport services, which can be a crucial lifeline for those with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. The overall assessment reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those managing hypertension.

**Moving to Goldsboro: Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Goldsboro, understanding the transportation landscape is vital. Before making the move, potential residents should research the proximity of healthcare facilities to their prospective homes and assess the availability of transportation options.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the ease of healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension should prioritize locations with convenient access to healthcare providers and reliable transportation options. Careful planning and consideration of these factors will contribute to a smoother transition and ensure continued access to essential medical care.

The city's commitment to improving public transit and expanding ride-sharing options could significantly enhance the "Hypertension Score" in the future, creating a more accessible healthcare environment for all residents.