27583, Timberlake, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27583, Timberlake, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.72 percent of residents in 27583 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Timberlake, NC (ZIP Code 27583)

Moving to Timberlake, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27583) presents a unique set of considerations, especially for individuals managing hypertension. While the area offers a tranquil, rural atmosphere, assessing healthcare access is crucial. This analysis, a “Hypertension Score,” considers the ease of transportation to medical facilities, crucial for consistent monitoring and treatment of high blood pressure. It examines drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility within and around Timberlake.

Timberlake, nestled in Person County, enjoys a relatively quiet existence. The primary challenge for healthcare access stems from its rural location. The nearest significant healthcare hubs are in Durham, Raleigh, and Roxboro. The availability and efficiency of transportation become paramount for residents, especially those with chronic conditions like hypertension, requiring regular check-ups and medication refills.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Timberlake residents is personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The major roadways impacting healthcare access are NC-57, US-501, and NC-49.

For access to Duke Health facilities in Durham, a trip typically involves navigating NC-57 and US-501. The drive can range from 35 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours. This commute can be challenging for individuals with hypertension, who may experience stress-related blood pressure spikes during travel.

Raleigh, with its extensive healthcare infrastructure, is accessible via NC-49 and I-85. The drive time can be longer, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on the specific hospital or clinic location. This longer travel time can be a significant barrier for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Roxboro, the county seat, provides closer healthcare options. Accessing Person Memorial Hospital involves a shorter drive, generally under 20 minutes, utilizing NC-57. This proximity offers a more convenient option for routine check-ups and urgent care needs.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in and around Timberlake are limited. Person County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve local needs and may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities in Durham or Raleigh.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that can be present in individuals with hypertension. Information on the specific routes, schedules, and ADA features of the Person County transit system is essential for residents.

For trips to Durham or Raleigh, the lack of direct public transit options necessitates a multi-modal approach, potentially involving a combination of local transit and ride-sharing services. This adds complexity and time to the journey, potentially impacting healthcare adherence.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Timberlake area. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable, especially for individuals on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive safely at their appointments. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, but availability and coverage in Timberlake should be verified.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The “Hypertension Score” for Timberlake, NC (27583) reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The score is influenced by several factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively long drive times to major healthcare facilities in Durham and Raleigh increase the risk of stress and inconvenience for individuals with hypertension.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The limited public transit options restrict access for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.
* **Ride-Sharing Variability:** The reliance on ride-sharing services can be expensive and unreliable, potentially hindering consistent healthcare access.
* **Medical Transportation Availability:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services are crucial for ensuring access for those with mobility challenges.
* **Proximity to Local Facilities:** The proximity to Person Memorial Hospital in Roxboro offers a more convenient option for routine care.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Timberlake, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential.

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Secure a primary care physician (PCP) in advance, preferably in Roxboro, to facilitate regular check-ups and medication management.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers.
* **Plan for Travel Time:** Factor in travel time and potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore the possibility of telehealth appointments for routine follow-ups and medication refills.
* **Build a Support Network:** Establish a support network of family, friends, or neighbors who can assist with transportation or provide support during medical appointments.

**Conclusion:**

Timberlake offers a peaceful environment, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness. While the drive times to major healthcare facilities can be a challenge, the proximity to Person Memorial Hospital and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide viable options. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare system and thrive in Timberlake. Prioritizing healthcare access is vital when moving to Timberlake.