27967, Powellsville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27967, Powellsville, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.00 percent of residents in 27967 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 5.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Powellsville, NC (ZIP Code 27967)

Powellsville, North Carolina, a rural community nestled in Bertie County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" for this area reflects the interplay of factors influencing a resident's ability to reach medical care, emphasizing the crucial role of transportation. This analysis explores the landscape of healthcare accessibility, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, providing valuable insights for both current residents and those contemplating moving to Powellsville.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension in Powellsville is the timely and consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. This is where transportation becomes paramount. The ability to navigate the local infrastructure directly impacts health outcomes. A high Hypertension Score would indicate significant barriers to care, while a low score suggests relatively easy access. This write-up assesses the current situation, offering a nuanced perspective on the realities of healthcare access in this specific ZIP code.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in Powellsville. The primary thoroughfare, US-17, provides the main artery connecting the town to larger population centers and healthcare facilities. Traveling south on US-17 leads to Windsor, the county seat, where the Bertie Memorial Hospital offers a range of medical services. The drive from Powellsville to Windsor typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, a relatively manageable timeframe for routine appointments. However, this assumes ideal conditions.

Further afield, residents may need to access specialized care in cities like Greenville, approximately an hour's drive via US-17 and US-264. This longer commute presents a greater challenge, particularly for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, who might require frequent monitoring or experience sudden health events. The condition of the roads, potential traffic delays, and the availability of reliable transportation all contribute to the overall Hypertension Score.

Secondary roads, such as NC-308 and NC-42, offer alternative routes, but they are often narrower and less well-maintained, potentially increasing travel time and risk. These roads are essential for reaching local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and other essential services within the immediate vicinity of Powellsville. The accessibility of these secondary routes is crucial for residents without reliable personal vehicles.

Public transportation options in Bertie County are limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. While there may be some demand-response services, such as those operated by the county, they are often restricted in scope and require advance booking. These services may not be readily available for urgent care needs or for individuals with mobility limitations. The absence of regular bus routes, especially those connecting Powellsville to healthcare hubs, presents a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services. However, the lack of an established public transit infrastructure in Powellsville makes ADA-compliant transportation a challenge. Individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations related to hypertension complications, may face significant difficulties in reaching medical appointments. This factor contributes heavily to a higher Hypertension Score for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Powellsville is uncertain. The rural nature of the area and the limited demand may restrict the presence of these services. Even if available, ride-sharing costs can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with limited incomes, exacerbating the challenges of healthcare access. The reliability of these services for time-sensitive medical needs is also a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may operate in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of these services vary, impacting their accessibility for Powellsville residents. The specific brands and their coverage area need to be investigated to determine their impact on the Hypertension Score.

The impact of the transportation infrastructure on the Hypertension Score is undeniable. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential absence of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for residents. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential transportation delays all contribute to the burden of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Powellsville, the availability of transportation is a critical factor. The relative isolation of the community and the distance to major healthcare facilities necessitate careful consideration of transportation options. Potential residents with hypertension should assess their ability to secure reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, medical transportation services, or assistance from family or friends.

The Hypertension Score for Powellsville, NC (ZIP Code 27967) is likely to be moderate to high, reflecting the transportation challenges. Improving healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include expanding public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing services, increasing the availability of medical transportation, and supporting community-based programs that provide transportation assistance. Addressing these transportation barriers is crucial for improving health outcomes and ensuring that all residents of Powellsville can access the healthcare they need. The ongoing assessment of the transportation landscape and the implementation of targeted interventions are essential to improve the Hypertension Score and promote a healthier community.