27983, Windsor, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 27983, Windsor, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.97 percent of residents in 27983 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Bertie Hospital with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Windsor, NC (ZIP Code 27983)

Considering a move to Windsor, North Carolina (ZIP code 27983)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere, it's crucial to assess your healthcare access, especially if you manage hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, focusing on transportation options and their impact on reaching essential medical appointments. Understanding these factors is vital for maintaining consistent care and effectively managing your condition.

The "Hypertension Score" considers travel time, mode of transportation, and accessibility. A lower score signifies easier access to healthcare, while a higher score indicates potential challenges. We’ll delve into the specifics of transportation options available in and around Windsor, offering insights to help you make an informed decision.

**The Geography of Healthcare in Windsor**

Windsor, nestled in Bertie County, is a rural community. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in surrounding towns, influencing transportation needs. Understanding the distances and travel times to these facilities is paramount for those with hypertension, who require regular check-ups and potential emergency care.

**Driving: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves driving.

* **Vidant Bertie Hospital (Windsor):** Located within Windsor, this facility is the closest option. Drive times are minimal, offering immediate access for urgent needs.
* **Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital (Ahoskie):** This hospital is approximately a 20-30 minute drive. The primary route is via US-13 South. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours.
* **Other Specialists (Greenville, NC):** For specialized care, you may need to travel to Greenville, approximately a 1-hour 15-minute drive. The route involves US-13 South to US-64 East. This longer drive requires careful planning, considering potential delays and the need for rest stops.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Windsor is limited. Bertie County does offer a demand-response system, providing transportation to medical appointments. However, the system is not a fixed-route service and requires advance booking. This can pose challenges for those with unpredictable appointment schedules or urgent needs.

The demand-response system’s accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these services and the booking process need careful consideration when assessing healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternatives to Consider**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Windsor. While they can offer a convenient option, particularly for those without personal vehicles, their reliability and cost should be evaluated.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are available. These services offer door-to-door transport and can be a valuable resource for individuals unable to drive. Researching local medical transport providers, such as First Medical Transportation or Med-Ride, is crucial. Consider their service areas, costs, and the types of medical appointments they cover.

**Assessing Your Hypertension Score**

To calculate your personal Hypertension Score, consider the following factors:

1. **Distance to Healthcare:** The shorter the distance to your primary care physician and specialist appointments, the lower the score.
2. **Transportation Mode:** Personal vehicle offers the most flexibility. Public transport and ride-sharing services may have limitations.
3. **Reliability of Transportation:** Consider the dependability of your chosen mode of transportation. Factors such as traffic, service availability, and booking requirements impact reliability.
4. **Accessibility:** Evaluate the accessibility of each transportation option, considering mobility limitations and the availability of ADA-compliant features.
5. **Cost:** Factor in the cost of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing fees, or medical transport charges.

**Example Score Calculation**

Let's assume you need to see a cardiologist in Greenville.

* **Distance:** 60 miles.
* **Transportation:** You have a personal vehicle.
* **Reliability:** You are confident in your vehicle's reliability.
* **Accessibility:** Your vehicle is accessible.
* **Cost:** Gas and potential parking fees.

Your score would be relatively low, indicating good access. However, if you rely on ride-sharing, the score would increase due to potential availability issues and higher costs.

**Moving to Windsor with Hypertension: Key Considerations**

Moving to Windsor with hypertension requires careful planning. Prioritize the following:

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Find a local physician or one in a nearby town.
* **Assess Specialist Needs:** Identify the specialists you require and determine their locations.
* **Evaluate Transportation Options:** Research the availability and reliability of all transportation options.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Have a plan for accessing emergency medical care, including knowing the fastest route to the nearest hospital.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure you have a reliable system for refilling prescriptions and obtaining necessary medications.

**Conclusion: Empowering Your Healthcare Journey**

Understanding transportation options and healthcare access is critical for effectively managing hypertension in Windsor. By assessing your personal Hypertension Score and proactively planning your healthcare journey, you can ensure consistent care and maintain your well-being. This information aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about moving to Windsor and navigating the healthcare landscape. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider and local resources to create a personalized healthcare plan that meets your specific needs.