27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.84 percent of residents in 27885 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 44.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hosp Inc with a distance of 38.82 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swanquarter (ZIP Code 27885)

The quaint coastal community of Swanquarter, nestled in the heart of Hyde County, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27885), offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rural tranquility. However, for residents managing hypertension, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly those related to transportation, can significantly impact their well-being. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of commute to healthcare facilities, considering various transportation options and their limitations. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Swanquarter, offering a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency services. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the accessibility of these services from Swanquarter, focusing on transportation challenges.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Road to Healthcare**

Swanquarter's location, while picturesque, presents a geographical hurdle. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are in Washington, NC, approximately 30-40 miles away, or in New Bern, NC, roughly 60-70 miles distant. These distances translate into drive times that can be substantial, especially for those with health concerns.

The primary route to Washington involves navigating **NC-264 East**, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, particularly during peak hours or tourist seasons. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Washington. The route is generally well-maintained, but the potential for delays due to weather or accidents exists, requiring careful planning and consideration for individuals with time-sensitive medical needs.

For access to New Bern, residents must utilize **NC-264 East** and then transition onto **US-17 South**. This journey extends the drive time to roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a more significant commitment. While **US-17** is a four-lane highway for a portion of the route, the overall travel time necessitates careful consideration, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments or experiencing acute symptoms.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hyde County are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly connects Swanquarter to Washington or New Bern. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to health reasons.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation, potentially increasing the financial burden and logistical complexities of healthcare access. The absence of public transit options also presents a challenge for those with mobility impairments, as there are no ADA-compliant public transportation options.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Washington and New Bern, but their availability in Swanquarter is less certain. The rural nature of the area may limit the frequency and reliability of these services, potentially leading to longer wait times and increased costs.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, may provide a viable alternative for individuals with specific needs. These services often specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, requiring thorough research and planning.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Hyde County Transportation:** This local service may provide transportation to medical appointments, but availability and eligibility requirements should be confirmed.
* **Coastal Transportation:** This company serves the area, and they offer non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Other Regional Services:** Depending on the patient's specific needs, other regional medical transportation providers may also be available.

**Healthcare Access: A Multi-Faceted Challenge**

The "Hypertension Score" for Swanquarter reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the primary healthcare needs can be met by the medical facilities in Washington, the distance and reliance on personal transportation create challenges. The lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access for certain populations.

The implications of these transportation challenges extend beyond the inconvenience of travel. They can impact medication adherence, the ability to attend follow-up appointments, and the timely access to emergency care. This can lead to poorer health outcomes for individuals with hypertension.

**Moving to Swanquarter: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering moving to Swanquarter with pre-existing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. The following factors should be considered:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Evaluate the distance to primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency rooms.
* **Transportation Options:** Assess the reliability of personal vehicles, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the feasibility of medical transportation.
* **Financial Resources:** Budget for the costs associated with transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services.
* **Support System:** Identify potential sources of support, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can assist with transportation and healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for improved healthcare access in Swanquarter. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the transportation challenges present a significant barrier to healthcare for those managing hypertension. Efforts to enhance healthcare access could include:

* **Advocating for public transportation:** Explore the feasibility of establishing a public bus route or expanding existing transportation services to serve Swanquarter.
* **Promoting ride-sharing and medical transportation:** Facilitate partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services to ensure reliable and affordable transportation options.
* **Expanding telehealth services:** Encourage the use of telehealth to reduce the need for in-person appointments and improve access to healthcare services.

By addressing these challenges, Swanquarter can create a healthier and more supportive environment for all its residents, particularly those managing hypertension. The availability of reliable transportation and accessible healthcare services will contribute to the overall well-being of the community and make Swanquarter a more attractive place to live for those seeking a peaceful and healthy lifestyle.