27829, Fountain, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27829, Fountain, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.93 percent of residents in 27829 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ecu Health Medical Center with a distance of 13.83 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 27829 (Fountain, NC)**

The journey to effective hypertension management in Fountain, North Carolina (ZIP code 27829), is inextricably linked to the available transportation options. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare services crucial for managing high blood pressure, considering the unique transportation landscape of this rural community. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access essential care. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Fountain, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain optimal health.

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Fountain are US-258, NC-125, and NC-97. Travel times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the mode of transportation. For instance, a routine check-up at a primary care physician in Fountain might involve a short drive, perhaps 5-10 minutes along US-258. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to larger towns like Greenville or Wilson.

Driving to Greenville, approximately 20 miles from Fountain via US-264 and US-13, could take around 30-40 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Wilson, roughly 25 miles away via NC-97 and US-264, might require a similar travel time. These drive times are crucial considerations for individuals with hypertension, as timely access to medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and specialist consultations are vital for managing the condition.

Public transportation options in Fountain are limited. The primary provider is the Pitt County Transit System, which may offer routes that serve the area, but the frequency and coverage are typically restricted in rural areas. Potential routes might involve a bus ride along NC-97 or US-258, connecting to larger hubs where transfers to other routes are possible. However, these routes are often infrequent, with limited evening or weekend service, posing challenges for individuals with work or family commitments.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. Federal regulations require public transit systems to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses and designated seating. However, the availability of these features does not guarantee ease of use, especially if the routes are infrequent or if the stops are not conveniently located. Individuals with mobility limitations may face significant hurdles in accessing healthcare via public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Fountain might be sporadic. The availability of drivers can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be risky, given the potential for delays or cancellations. Moreover, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and First Medical Transportation might operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve a scheduled pick-up and drop-off, using vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, NEMT services often require prior arrangements and may have limited availability, particularly for urgent needs.

The “Hypertension Score” for ZIP code 27829 will reflect the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare access. The score will be based on several factors, including the average drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options.

The score will also consider the affordability of transportation options and the availability of healthcare providers in the area. A higher score would indicate easier access to healthcare, while a lower score would suggest significant barriers to care. The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on the ability of residents to manage their hypertension effectively.

The score will be calculated using a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. For example, drive times will be weighted heavily, as they directly impact the time and effort required to access care. The availability and reliability of public transit will also be significant factors, particularly for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services will be considered, but their impact will be moderated by their availability, cost, and reliability.

The final “Hypertension Score” will be presented as a numerical value, accompanied by a brief narrative summarizing the key findings. The narrative will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation system, and it will offer recommendations for improving healthcare access. This information will be valuable for residents of Fountain, as well as for policymakers and healthcare providers who are working to improve the health and well-being of the community.

For those considering moving to Fountain, this analysis provides a crucial perspective. Understanding the transportation infrastructure is paramount for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of reliable transportation directly impacts the ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend appointments, and access necessary medications.

The “Hypertension Score” aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare access landscape in ZIP code 27829. By considering all relevant factors, the score will provide a valuable tool for individuals, policymakers, and healthcare providers alike. The goal is to foster a healthier community by ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need, regardless of their transportation situation.