27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.59 percent of residents in 27974 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Shiloh, NC (ZIP Code 27974)

The quaint, rural community of Shiloh, North Carolina (ZIP code 27974) offers a slower pace of life, a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of urban centers. However, the tranquility of this northeastern corner of the state presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This "Hypertension Score" delves into the complexities of transportation options, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of how individuals in Shiloh can effectively commute to their healthcare appointments and manage their health. The analysis is crucial for those contemplating moving to Shiloh and for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The core of this evaluation centers on the concept of "healthcare access," a multi-faceted term encompassing not just the availability of medical facilities but also the ease with which individuals can reach them. For those living with hypertension, consistent medical care, including regular check-ups and medication management, is paramount. Therefore, the ability to reliably and efficiently travel to these appointments is a critical determinant of their overall health outcomes. The following sections examine the various transportation avenues available in and around Shiloh, considering their respective advantages, limitations, and suitability for individuals with hypertension.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many Shiloh residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Elizabeth City and Camden often involves navigating the local road network. The primary arteries include US-158, a crucial east-west thoroughfare connecting Shiloh to Elizabeth City, and NC-343, which provides access to Camden. The drive to Elizabeth City, home to Albemarle Hospital and numerous medical practices, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Navigating these roads requires careful consideration for those with hypertension. Driving itself can be a stressor, potentially elevating blood pressure. Therefore, planning ahead, allowing ample time for travel, and avoiding peak traffic hours are essential strategies. Additionally, the condition of the roads, especially after inclement weather, can affect drive times and add to the stress of the journey. Regular vehicle maintenance and a well-stocked emergency kit are prudent precautions for all drivers, but especially so for individuals with health concerns.

The drive to Camden, although shorter in distance, may involve navigating more rural roads. This can mean encountering slower traffic, potentially longer wait times at intersections, and limited access to amenities along the way.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Shiloh are, unfortunately, quite limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts individuals with hypertension, who may face mobility challenges or financial constraints that make owning or maintaining a car difficult.

While specific bus routes serving Shiloh are not readily available, the possibility of accessing services in Elizabeth City should be investigated. The absence of detailed information about bus routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features highlights the need for further investigation and potentially, advocacy for improved public transit services.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Elizabeth City, and their availability in Shiloh may be dependent on driver availability. These services offer a potentially convenient alternative to driving, especially for individuals unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services in a rural area like Shiloh can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare providers, can offer specialized assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While potentially more expensive than ride-sharing, medical transportation services provide a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. Researching available medical transport brands in the area is crucial for those who need this service.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: A Holistic View**

The "Hypertension Score" for Shiloh, NC (27974) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the relatively short distances to healthcare facilities in Elizabeth City and Camden are a positive aspect, the limited transportation options, particularly the lack of robust public transit, pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, while common, can be a source of stress and expense.

Individuals with hypertension considering moving to Shiloh or currently residing there should carefully assess their transportation needs and resources. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transportation. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance, exploring all available transportation options, and budgeting for transportation costs, is essential for ensuring consistent and reliable healthcare access.

The lack of readily available information about public transit and the limited presence of ride-sharing services highlight the need for community-based solutions. This could involve advocating for improved public transit, exploring the feasibility of a local volunteer driver program, or supporting initiatives that increase the availability of medical transportation services. Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Shiloh requires a collaborative effort, involving residents, healthcare providers, and local authorities, to ensure that all individuals, including those with hypertension, can receive the care they need. The journey to optimal health should not be hindered by transportation barriers.