27814, Blounts Creek, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27814, Blounts Creek, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.55 percent of residents in 27814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carolina East Medical Center with a distance of 21.87 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Blounts Creek (ZIP Code 27814)

Considering a move to the charming coastal community of Blounts Creek, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27814)? While the allure of waterfront living and a slower pace of life is undeniable, understanding the complexities of healthcare access is paramount, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, assessing the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, crucial for consistent care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of healthcare accessibility in this picturesque locale.

The foundation of this analysis hinges on the critical need for timely and reliable access to healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency interventions necessitate efficient transportation. The score will reflect the reality of getting to and from medical appointments, considering the unique geographical characteristics of Blounts Creek.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Blounts Creek are the well-maintained roadways. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities is via US-17, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving north on US-17 offers access to Vidant Beaufort Hospital in Washington, North Carolina, a significant regional healthcare provider. The drive typically spans approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, heading south on US-17 provides access to medical facilities in New Bern, North Carolina. This journey is considerably longer, clocking in at around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific location within New Bern and traffic flow.

Smaller, local roads like NC-306 and NC-33 connect Blounts Creek to neighboring communities and can serve as alternative routes, though they often involve slower speeds and more rural landscapes. These routes may be useful for accessing smaller clinics or pharmacies.

The Hypertension Score considers these drive times, acknowledging that longer commutes can pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The score will reflect the impact of these travel times on the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in the Blounts Creek area are limited. The primary provider is the Pamlico County Transportation System, which offers demand-response services. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, and the availability is subject to the system's capacity and operational hours.

These services are designed to provide transportation for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential needs. However, the limited frequency and the requirement for advance booking can present challenges for individuals with urgent healthcare needs or those who prefer spontaneous travel.

The Pamlico County Transportation System strives to provide ADA-compliant services, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This includes accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the overall impact of public transit on the Hypertension Score is diminished due to the limited service area and the need for pre-scheduling.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Blounts Creek is limited. While these services might be available, their presence is not guaranteed, and wait times can be unpredictable. This lack of readily available ride-sharing poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.

The availability of medical transport services positively impacts the Hypertension Score, offering a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Blounts Creek (ZIP Code 27814) is a dynamic assessment, considering the interplay of various transportation options. The score will be influenced by the drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport services.

The score will also consider the proximity of pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and other essential healthcare resources. Access to these resources is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

**Moving to Blounts Creek: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Blounts Creek presents a lifestyle choice that balances the tranquility of coastal living with the practicalities of healthcare access. While the community offers a serene environment, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the transportation options available for accessing medical care.

The Hypertension Score aims to provide a clear and concise assessment of healthcare accessibility, empowering individuals to make informed decisions. The score will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation network, allowing potential residents to weigh the benefits of the location against the challenges of accessing healthcare.

The final Hypertension Score will reflect the overall accessibility of healthcare, taking into account the various factors discussed in this write-up. It will provide a valuable tool for individuals considering a move to Blounts Creek, enabling them to make an informed decision about their healthcare needs.

**The Hypertension Score: A Synthesis**

The final Hypertension Score for Blounts Creek (ZIP Code 27814) will be a composite measure. It will reflect the following key factors:

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach Vidant Beaufort Hospital and medical facilities in New Bern.
* **Public Transit:** The availability and accessibility of the Pamlico County Transportation System.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The likelihood of securing ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Resources:** The distance to pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and other essential healthcare resources.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. This will provide a clear and concise assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility in Blounts Creek.

The score will be a valuable resource for anyone considering a move to this beautiful coastal community. It will empower individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring they can prioritize their health and well-being while enjoying the unique lifestyle Blounts Creek offers. The journey to healthcare access is a crucial consideration when moving, and this score helps navigate that path.