27604, Raleigh, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27604, Raleigh, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.26 percent of residents in 27604 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Duke Health Raleigh Hospital with a distance of 2.05 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Raleigh's 27604

Considering a move to Raleigh, North Carolina, and particularly the 27604 ZIP code? Understanding healthcare access, especially for managing conditions like hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities, a vital component in effective hypertension management. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-share/medical transport availability, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within the designated area.

The 27604 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Raleigh and surrounding neighborhoods, presents a diverse landscape for transportation. Its location offers both advantages and disadvantages when considering healthcare access. The proximity to major thoroughfares like I-40, I-440, and US-1 provides relatively quick access to various medical facilities. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially hindering timely healthcare appointments.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. Several major hospitals and clinics are within a reasonable driving distance. Duke Raleigh Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, is a significant healthcare provider. Accessing it typically involves navigating the I-440 Beltline or using US-1. Drive times vary, but during off-peak hours, the journey can be completed within 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, expect delays, potentially extending the commute to 25-30 minutes.

WakeMed Raleigh Campus, another prominent healthcare facility, is also accessible via I-440 or US-64. The drive time is generally comparable to Duke Raleigh, but traffic patterns can influence the duration. Other clinics and specialized medical practices are scattered throughout the area, often requiring navigating local roads like Hillsborough Street, Wade Avenue, and Western Boulevard. These routes can experience heavy traffic, particularly near the NC State University campus. Therefore, the "Hypertension Score" will consider the variability in drive times based on the time of day and traffic conditions.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

The City of Raleigh operates a public transportation system, GoRaleigh, offering bus routes throughout the city. Several routes serve the 27604 area, providing potential access to healthcare facilities. Route 1, a key thoroughfare, connects downtown Raleigh to various destinations, including medical offices. Route 2, Route 5, and Route 11 also offer connections to healthcare providers.

However, the accessibility of public transit for hypertension patients requires careful evaluation. While GoRaleigh strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses with ramps and designated seating, the frequency of service can be a limiting factor. Waiting times, particularly during evenings and weekends, might be extended, potentially impacting the ability to attend appointments on schedule. Furthermore, transfers between routes can add significant time to the journey. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the frequency of service, route coverage, and the potential for delays associated with public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services in the 27604 area is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services can vary, and advance booking is often required. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their potential to improve healthcare access for individuals with hypertension.

**The "Hypertension Score" Methodology:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 27604 will be calculated based on a weighted average of the following factors:

* **Drive Time Accessibility (40%):** Average drive times to major healthcare facilities during peak and off-peak hours. This will consider the impact of traffic on major highways and local roads.
* **Public Transit Accessibility (30%):** Frequency of service, route coverage, and accessibility features of GoRaleigh bus routes serving the area.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transport Availability (20%):** Availability, cost, and ease of access to ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies and Pharmacies with Drive-Through (10%):** The number of pharmacies and pharmacies with drive-through services within a reasonable distance.

The score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest level of healthcare access and 1 representing the lowest. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the rationale behind the assigned score.

**Impact on Hypertension Management:**

Effective hypertension management requires regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. Easy access to healthcare providers, pharmacies, and support services is crucial for achieving these goals. Transportation challenges can significantly impact a patient's ability to attend appointments, refill prescriptions, and participate in educational programs.

For individuals considering moving to Raleigh, especially those with hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services within the 27604 ZIP code. This information can help prospective residents make informed decisions about their housing location, considering the impact of transportation on their ability to manage their health.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare access in the 27604 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. While the area benefits from proximity to major healthcare facilities, transportation options present both opportunities and challenges. The "Hypertension Score" will provide a comprehensive assessment, considering drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-share/medical transport availability. This score will assist prospective residents in evaluating the suitability of the area for managing hypertension and making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Moving to Raleigh, specifically 27604, requires a thoughtful assessment of transportation options to ensure effective healthcare access.