27607, Raleigh, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27607, Raleigh, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.78 percent of residents in 27607 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rex Hospital with a distance of 0.48 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27607

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing hypertension, hinges on several critical factors. One often overlooked is the ease of access to healthcare, especially in a bustling urban environment like Raleigh, North Carolina. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 27607, evaluating its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the relative ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical appointments. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Raleigh, especially those with existing health conditions.

ZIP code 27607, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Raleigh and surrounding neighborhoods, presents a complex transportation tapestry. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 40 (I-40), Interstate 440 (I-440), and US-1. Navigating these highways, particularly during peak hours, can be a test of patience. Traffic congestion, a common occurrence, can significantly impact drive times to healthcare facilities. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with hypertension, as timely access to medication refills, check-ups, and emergency care is paramount.

For instance, a resident in the Glenwood South area might face a 15-20 minute drive to Duke Raleigh Hospital during off-peak hours. However, during the morning or evening commute, this drive could easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, especially if encountering bottlenecks on I-440 or Glenwood Avenue. Similarly, a trip to WakeMed Raleigh Campus from the Oakwood Historic District might take 10-15 minutes under ideal conditions, but could double or even triple during rush hour.

Public transportation, primarily provided by GoRaleigh, offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the 27607 area, providing connectivity to major healthcare providers. Routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, and 15 are among the most relevant, offering service to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage can vary, especially during evenings and weekends.

GoRaleigh strives to provide accessible transportation for all riders. Many buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. However, the reliance on bus schedules and the potential for delays due to traffic can pose challenges for those managing hypertension. Waiting times, especially during inclement weather, can be stressful and impact blood pressure.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a more convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the financial burden.

Medical transportation services, such as FirstLight Home Care and MedTrans, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services offer a higher level of support, they typically come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public transit.

To calculate the "Hypertension Score" for 27607, we must consider several factors. Drive times to key healthcare facilities, including Duke Raleigh Hospital, WakeMed Raleigh Campus, and various clinics, will be assessed during peak and off-peak hours. The frequency, coverage, and accessibility of GoRaleigh bus routes will be evaluated. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services will also be factored in.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare and a lower score indicating greater challenges. A score of 100 would represent ideal conditions, with minimal travel times, readily available public transit, and affordable ride-sharing options. A score of 0 would represent extremely difficult access, with long drive times, limited public transit, and prohibitive transportation costs.

For example, a resident living near the North Carolina Museum of Art might have a relatively high "Hypertension Score" due to their proximity to major roads and bus routes. Conversely, a resident in a more remote part of the zip code, further from public transit and reliant on driving, might have a lower score.

The "Hypertension Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the practical realities of healthcare access. It underscores the importance of considering transportation when choosing a place to live, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. This is especially true for those moving to Raleigh, as the city's growth has led to increased traffic congestion and a need for robust transportation infrastructure.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape within 27607, residents can proactively plan their medical appointments, choose the most convenient transportation options, and ultimately manage their hypertension more effectively. This is a critical aspect of healthcare access, and one that deserves careful consideration. The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable tool for assessing this crucial element.