28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28337, Elizabethtown, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.61 percent of residents in 28337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 1.78 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethtown (ZIP Code 28337)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates reliable and efficient access to healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Elizabethtown, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28337), assessing its impact on healthcare access for residents, especially those with hypertension. Understanding the commute to healthcare is crucial for anyone considering moving to Elizabethtown or already residing there, as it directly influences the ability to adhere to treatment plans and maintain well-being.

Elizabethtown, a charming town nestled in Bladen County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its rural setting influences the availability and efficiency of various transportation options. This report will delve into the nuances of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many Elizabethtown residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The town's layout and the location of healthcare providers significantly influence drive times. Key highways like US-701 and NC-87 serve as vital arteries, connecting Elizabethtown to surrounding areas and healthcare facilities. Travel times, however, are subject to traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

A critical consideration is the distance to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics. Bladen County Hospital, located within Elizabethtown, provides essential medical services. Drive times to this facility are generally short, typically within 10-15 minutes for most residents. However, for specialized care, residents may need to travel to facilities in nearby towns like Fayetteville or Wilmington.

Traveling to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, approximately 30 miles away, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic on NC-87 and US-401. This journey becomes particularly challenging for individuals with hypertension, who may experience stress or fatigue during the commute. Similarly, the drive to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, a further distance, can extend to over an hour, impacting healthcare access.

The condition of local roads also plays a significant role. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and limited shoulders on some roads can pose safety risks, particularly for individuals with health concerns. Regular road maintenance and improvements are crucial to ensure safe and efficient transportation for all residents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Elizabethtown are limited. Bladen County does not have a robust public bus system. This lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a comprehensive public transportation network disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. These individuals may struggle to access essential healthcare services, leading to delayed treatment and potentially poorer health outcomes. The absence of ADA-compliant features on public transit vehicles also poses a challenge for individuals with mobility impairments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Elizabethtown, but their availability and affordability can vary. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden for individuals with limited incomes, potentially hindering their ability to attend medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, typically offer door-to-door service and may include assistance with mobility. However, the availability of medical transportation services in Elizabethtown may be limited, and the cost can be substantial.

Several medical transport brands might serve the area, but availability and specifics need local confirmation. These include companies like First Transit, LogistiCare, and MTM, which often contract with insurance providers or local agencies.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The 'Hypertension Score' for Elizabethtown (ZIP Code 28337) reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. Considering the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation, the score is moderate.

The score is negatively impacted by the distances to specialized care facilities, the lack of a comprehensive public transit system, and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services. However, the presence of Bladen County Hospital within Elizabethtown and the availability of some ride-sharing and medical transportation options provide some mitigation.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in Elizabethtown requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including expanding bus routes and ensuring ADA compliance, would significantly benefit residents. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income individuals and expanding the availability of medical transportation options are also crucial.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and increasing the availability of specialist clinics within Elizabethtown can reduce the need for long-distance travel. Community outreach programs that educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources are also essential.

For individuals considering moving to Elizabethtown or those already residing there, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. While Elizabethtown offers a peaceful environment, navigating healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration of the available transportation options. The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a valuable tool for assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in this community, encouraging informed decision-making and advocating for improvements in the transportation infrastructure to better serve the health needs of all residents. The goal is to ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier to well-being, but a readily available resource for everyone in Elizabethtown.