27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.70 percent of residents in 27587 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Duke Health Raleigh Hospital with a distance of 10.96 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 27587

The quest for optimal health, especially for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates reliable and efficient transportation. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 27587 (Wake Forest, North Carolina), unveils the intricate web of transportation options available for residents seeking healthcare, evaluating their impact on “healthcare access” and ultimately, influencing a “Hypertension Score.” This score reflects the ease with which individuals can access essential medical services, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions. For those “moving to Wake Forest,” understanding these nuances is crucial.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 27587 is the private automobile. The majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting to medical appointments. Key arteries like US-1 (Capital Boulevard) and NC-98 provide the primary routes, connecting Wake Forest to surrounding areas where healthcare facilities are concentrated. Drive times, however, are significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

For instance, a trip to WakeMed North Hospital, located in Raleigh, via US-1, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the time of day. Similarly, access to Duke Health facilities in Durham, primarily via NC-98 and I-85, can range from 45 minutes to over an hour. These drive times, especially for individuals with hypertension requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing acute episodes, can present a significant barrier to timely healthcare.

Beyond the automobile, public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. The GoRaleigh and GoTriangle systems provide bus service, connecting Wake Forest to Raleigh and Durham. Route 101, operated by GoRaleigh, serves Wake Forest, offering connections to the broader network. However, bus routes often have limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, and may involve transfers, extending travel times considerably.

The accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. All GoRaleigh and GoTriangle buses are ADA-accessible, equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating some of the challenges associated with public transit and the limitations of driving. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, availability can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less densely populated areas, potentially delaying access to care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, often provided by companies like CareRide or MediRide, provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with specific needs, they often come with higher costs and may require advance booking, limiting spontaneous access to care.

The “Hypertension Score” for 27587 is thus a complex calculation, reflecting the interplay of these various transportation options. The score considers the average drive times to major healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transportation services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests greater challenges.

For individuals with hypertension, the “Hypertension Score” is particularly relevant. Regular medical check-ups, medication management, and prompt access to emergency care are critical for managing the condition. Delays in accessing care, due to transportation limitations, can have serious health consequences.

The score is also dynamic. As Wake Forest continues to grow, and as the transportation infrastructure evolves, the “Hypertension Score” will likely change. The planned expansion of public transit routes, the potential for increased ride-sharing availability, and the development of new healthcare facilities within the area will all influence the score.

Furthermore, the individual's circumstances also play a significant role. For example, a person without a personal vehicle, relying solely on public transit, would likely have a lower “Hypertension Score” compared to someone with a car. Similarly, individuals with mobility limitations may face additional challenges, impacting their score.

The “Hypertension Score” is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in 27587. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when planning healthcare needs. It emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand access to healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations.

For those “moving to Wake Forest,” understanding the “Hypertension Score” is essential. It provides a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to proactively plan for their transportation requirements.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where healthcare access is not a barrier, but a readily available resource. By understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, we can work towards improving the “Hypertension Score” and ensuring that all residents of 27587 can live healthier, more fulfilling lives. The ongoing development of the transportation network, along with the growth of healthcare facilities, is crucial for achieving this goal.