27847, Kelford, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27847, Kelford, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.42 percent of residents in 27847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 13.87 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kelford (ZIP Code 27847)

Kelford, North Carolina, nestled in the embrace of Bertie County, presents a unique tapestry of rural living. Its quiet charm, however, can sometimes obscure the complexities of accessing essential services, especially healthcare. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to reliably and efficiently reach medical appointments is paramount. This write-up delves into the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 27847, assessing the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities, including drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all vital components of ensuring consistent care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Kelford begins with the automobile. The primary arteries of movement are North Carolina Highway 125 and US Route 17. Driving to the nearest medical facilities, such as Vidant Bertie Hospital in Windsor (approximately 15 miles) and smaller clinics in Aulander and Colerain, dictates the rhythm of healthcare. Rush hour, though less pronounced than in urban centers, can still add significant minutes to travel times, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up periods.

The drive to Vidant Bertie Hospital, a cornerstone of healthcare in the region, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This is primarily via NC-125 and US-17. However, a sudden accident or inclement weather can drastically alter these times, emphasizing the need for contingency plans, especially for those with time-sensitive health needs. The condition of the roads, while generally well-maintained, can vary, requiring drivers to remain vigilant.

Public transportation options in Bertie County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The primary provider of public transit is the Bertie County Transportation Department. Information on specific routes and schedules is available through the county's website. The service is designed to cater to a variety of needs, including medical appointments. However, the frequency of service and the geographical coverage are limited, potentially requiring considerable wait times and extended travel durations.

The Bertie County Transportation Department offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. This is a crucial element in healthcare access, allowing those with mobility challenges to attend appointments. However, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles may be limited, and it is essential to book rides in advance to secure necessary accommodations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the area, though their availability may be sporadic. The success of these services hinges on driver availability, which can be influenced by factors like time of day, day of the week, and overall demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky, as there is no guarantee of immediate availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs, including those requiring assistance with mobility or those who cannot drive themselves. They typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

The "Hypertension Score" for Kelford residents is significantly influenced by the availability and reliability of transportation. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are relatively short, the dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing options create challenges. This is particularly true for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Moving to Kelford and managing hypertension requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive or access alternative transportation options. Proximity to healthcare facilities, while important, is only one piece of the puzzle. The ease of getting there, the reliability of transportation, and the availability of support services are equally critical.

The healthcare landscape in Bertie County is evolving. Ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access, including potential expansions of public transit and the development of telehealth services, offer hope for the future. However, for the present, residents of Kelford must navigate the existing transportation infrastructure to ensure consistent access to the care they need.

The "Hypertension Score" is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals managing their health in a rural environment. It highlights the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a deep understanding of the local transportation landscape. It is a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is about the ability to get there.

The integration of telehealth services could potentially alleviate some of the transportation burdens. Remote consultations and monitoring can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management. However, telehealth is not a complete solution, and it cannot replace the need for in-person examinations and procedures.

The availability of pharmacy services is another crucial factor. While there are pharmacies in Windsor and other nearby towns, the distance and transportation challenges can still pose difficulties. Medication adherence is a critical component of hypertension management, and easy access to prescription refills is essential.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic measure, subject to change as the community evolves. As Bertie County continues to grow and adapt, the transportation landscape will likely change as well. Staying informed about new transportation options, healthcare initiatives, and community resources is vital for individuals managing hypertension in Kelford.

The importance of community support cannot be overstated. Family members, friends, and local organizations can play a crucial role in providing transportation assistance and offering support to individuals with hypertension. Carpooling, volunteer driver programs, and community-based transportation initiatives can help bridge the gap in healthcare access.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Kelford residents is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the community. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a collaborative approach to healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and working together to find solutions, residents of Kelford can ensure that individuals with hypertension receive the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.