27924, Colerain, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27924, Colerain, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.19 percent of residents in 27924 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 11.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Colerain, NC (ZIP Code 27924)

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a health condition like hypertension, necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access. For prospective residents considering a move to Colerain, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27924), this write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing essential medical care. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately painting a picture of the ease with which individuals can manage their hypertension within this rural community.

Colerain, nestled in Bertie County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural character means healthcare facilities are not readily available on every corner. This necessitates a careful evaluation of how residents will reach their doctors, pharmacies, and other vital medical services. The "Hypertension Score" considers these factors, providing a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape and its implications for managing high blood pressure.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Colerain is personal vehicles. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network. The closest major medical facilities, including hospitals and specialist clinics, are located in nearby towns and cities.

The most direct route to Vidant Bertie Hospital in Windsor, NC, typically involves traveling along US-17 South. The drive, depending on traffic, averages around 20-25 minutes. This represents a relatively manageable commute, especially for routine check-ups and non-emergency care. However, this drive time can be affected by seasonal tourism, especially during peak travel times.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Accessing Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC, requires a drive of approximately 35-40 minutes, usually via NC-45 North. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, particularly for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or those requiring frequent medical interventions.

Accessing larger hospitals in Greenville, NC, such as Vidant Medical Center, requires a longer journey. This typically involves taking US-17 South and then US-264 East. The drive can take between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, potentially presenting challenges for those requiring immediate medical attention or regular appointments.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the importance of proactive healthcare management. Regular appointments, medication refills, and lifestyle modifications are crucial in preventing emergency situations that could necessitate longer travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Bertie County are limited. The primary provider is the Bertie County Transportation Department, offering demand-response services. This means rides must be scheduled in advance, making it less suitable for spontaneous medical needs.

The service operates Monday through Friday, with limited weekend availability. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who require weekend medical care or pharmacy access. The transportation department offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling requirements and limited service area restrict its effectiveness for many residents.

The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions. While the Bertie County Transportation Department provides a crucial service, it cannot fully meet the transportation needs of all residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Colerain or Bertie County. This leaves residents reliant on other options for transportation.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services offer door-to-door transportation to medical appointments and other healthcare-related needs.

The cost of medical transportation services can be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited financial resources. Insurance coverage varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can quickly accumulate. It is essential to investigate insurance coverage options and explore potential financial assistance programs to ensure access to these vital services.

**The "Hypertension Score" and its Implications**

The "Hypertension Score" for Colerain, NC (27924), reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to local hospitals and clinics, but longer travel times for specialized care.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options, requiring advance scheduling and restricting access.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Lack of readily available ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation:** Availability of medical transportation services, but with potential cost considerations.

This score suggests that residents of Colerain need to be proactive in managing their hypertension. This includes:

* **Establishing a strong relationship with their primary care physician.**
* **Scheduling regular check-ups and medication refills in advance.**
* **Exploring options for home delivery of medications.**
* **Investigating medical transportation services and understanding insurance coverage.**
* **Considering the location of healthcare providers when selecting a home.**

**Moving to Colerain: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Colerain while managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" provides a balanced perspective. The community offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, but healthcare access requires careful planning.

The manageable drive times to local hospitals and clinics provide a degree of convenience. However, the limited public transit and lack of ride-sharing services necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. They should research local medical transportation services, understand insurance coverage options, and establish a strong relationship with a primary care physician.

Ultimately, the success of managing hypertension in Colerain depends on proactive healthcare management, careful planning, and a willingness to adapt to the transportation realities of a rural community. Moving to Colerain can be a positive experience, but it requires a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape and a commitment to prioritizing health and well-being.