27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.98 percent of residents in 27964 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 14.27 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Point Harbor, NC (ZIP Code 27964)

Point Harbor, North Carolina, a charming coastal community nestled within ZIP code 27964, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to essential healthcare services, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions. It's designed to assist potential residents in making informed decisions about their **healthcare access** needs.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local **transportation** landscape. It considers factors such as the availability of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of travel methods, and the accessibility of services for individuals with mobility limitations. This analysis aims to help individuals contemplating **moving to Point Harbor** understand the practicalities of managing their health within this specific geographic context.

The primary healthcare hub for Point Harbor residents is often the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, approximately 25 miles south. Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** to this facility. The journey typically involves navigating US-158 East, the main artery connecting Point Harbor to the Outer Banks. Traffic flow on US-158 can vary significantly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Weekday commutes outside of peak hours generally take around 35-45 minutes, while weekend travel or during holiday periods can extend to an hour or more. The road is generally well-maintained, but potential weather-related delays, particularly during hurricane season, must be considered.

For those seeking specialized care or additional options, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately 40 miles west, provides another choice. This route involves traveling on US-158 West, then merging onto US-17 South. The drive time to Elizabeth City usually takes between 50 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This journey presents a longer commute but offers access to a broader range of specialists and services.

Public **transportation** options in the 27964 area are limited. The Dare County Transportation System offers a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. This service provides door-to-door **transportation** within Dare County, potentially offering a lifeline for those unable to drive or lacking reliable vehicle access. However, the service operates on a limited schedule, and availability can be constrained. This is an important factor to consider when evaluating **healthcare access**.

The Outer Banks Dare County Transit System (OBX Transit) provides a bus service, but routes and schedules are primarily focused on serving the Outer Banks towns and tourist destinations. While some routes might indirectly connect to areas closer to Point Harbor, direct routes to healthcare facilities are not readily available. Riders should be aware that the OBX Transit buses are generally accessible, with features for passengers with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and circuitous routes make it less than ideal for regular healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Outer Banks, but availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-season or in the more remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not always feasible. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips. This makes **healthcare access** more challenging.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing non-emergency medical transport, are available. Companies like Care Ride and others provide services to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. While offering a viable solution, they can be costly and require advance booking.

The "Hypertension Score" for Point Harbor, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the primary healthcare facility is within a reasonable driving distance, reliance on personal vehicles is high. Public **transportation** options are limited and not ideally suited for regular medical appointments. Ride-sharing services are available but can be unreliable and expensive. Medical **transportation** services offer a viable alternative but come with added costs.

Individuals with hypertension, or those considering **moving to Point Harbor** with existing health conditions, should carefully assess their **transportation** needs. Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Exploring the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services is also prudent. Furthermore, understanding the limitations of public **transportation** and ride-sharing options is essential.

For those with mobility limitations, the Dare County Transportation System offers a crucial lifeline, but its limited schedule and booking requirements necessitate careful planning. The accessibility features of the OBX Transit buses, while not offering direct routes, are a positive aspect. However, the overall reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays during peak seasons contribute to a less-than-ideal "Hypertension Score."

In conclusion, while Point Harbor offers a desirable lifestyle, the **transportation** landscape presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Careful planning, consideration of alternative **transportation** options, and a proactive approach to **healthcare access** are essential. Potential residents should thoroughly research their **transportation** needs and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing medical care, especially when **moving to Point Harbor**. The "Hypertension Score" in this context highlights the need for careful consideration and proactive planning to ensure seamless healthcare management within this charming coastal community.