28326, Cameron, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.44 percent of residents in 28326 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Carolina Hospital with a distance of 12.74 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cameron, NC (ZIP Code 28326)

The journey to maintaining healthy blood pressure, or managing hypertension, in Cameron, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28326), involves a complex interplay of personal choices and the surrounding environment. Crucially, this includes the availability and accessibility of healthcare. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, a vital component of **healthcare access**, for residents of this community. Understanding these options is paramount, especially for individuals considering **moving to Cameron** and those already residing here. We will analyze drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" to assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care.

Cameron, a town nestled in Moore County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to **transportation**. The town's relative remoteness, coupled with its limited public transit infrastructure, necessitates a thoughtful approach to navigating the healthcare system. The ability to promptly access medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care is fundamental for managing hypertension effectively.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation**. Several healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, though the specific routes and travel times vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day.

Pinehurst Medical Clinic, a significant provider in the area, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive from the heart of Cameron. The most direct route typically involves taking US-15/501 North, a major thoroughfare that connects Cameron to the larger towns of Pinehurst and Southern Pines. Traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours, adding to the commute time.

Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, a comprehensive healthcare facility, is also accessible via US-15/501 North. Drive times to the hospital range from 25-30 minutes, again subject to traffic conditions. This route offers generally well-maintained roads, but drivers should be mindful of speed limits and potential congestion.

For residents seeking specialized care or access to a wider range of services, a trip to Fayetteville, approximately an hour's drive via US-1, might be necessary. This longer commute underscores the importance of planning and considering potential delays. US-1 is a major highway, but traffic can be heavy, especially near Fayetteville, impacting the overall travel time.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in Cameron are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The availability of bus services is minimal, and routes are infrequent. This situation presents a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The Moore County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides some public **transportation** services. These services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, especially on weekends. The MCTA primarily serves the needs of seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited access to other **transportation** options.

The MCTA services are not designed for quick, spontaneous trips. They are often used for scheduled medical appointments and other essential errands. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. Confirming ADA accessibility and booking requirements is a necessity.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cameron, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand for rides. This can present challenges for individuals needing to access healthcare at short notice.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative. Companies like First Medical Transportation and American Medical Response may operate in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance for individuals with mobility challenges. However, they often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other options.

**The Hypertension Score:**

To assess the ease of **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension in Cameron, we can assign a "Hypertension Score." This score will reflect the challenges and opportunities presented by the **transportation** landscape.

The score will be based on several factors: drive times to key healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical **transportation**.

* **Drive Times:** The longer the drive times, the lower the score. This is because extended travel can increase stress levels, potentially impacting blood pressure.
* **Public Transit:** The more limited the public transit options, the lower the score. Lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The reliability and availability of ride-sharing services will be factored into the score.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability and affordability of medical **transportation** services will improve the score.

Given the current **transportation** landscape in Cameron, the Hypertension Score would likely be moderate. While healthcare facilities are within driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some relief, but their accessibility and affordability must be considered.

**Recommendations:**

For residents of Cameron managing hypertension, several strategies can improve **healthcare access**:

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments in advance and factor in potential travel times and traffic delays.
* **Explore Options:** Investigate all available **transportation** options, including ride-sharing services and medical **transportation**.
* **Community Resources:** Connect with local organizations and support groups that may offer assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments.
* **Advocate for Improvement:** Support initiatives to improve public transit options and expand the availability of **transportation** services for residents.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare system in Cameron, NC, requires careful consideration of the **transportation** options available. While the town offers a degree of **healthcare access**, the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. A proactive approach, including planning, exploring available resources, and advocating for improved **transportation** infrastructure, is essential for ensuring that residents of Cameron can effectively manage their health and well-being. The decision to consider **moving to Cameron** should include a thorough assessment of these **transportation** factors and their impact on **healthcare access**.