28344, Godwin, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28344, Godwin, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.35 percent of residents in 28344 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital with a distance of 9.85 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Godwin, NC (ZIP Code 28344)**

Godwin, North Carolina, a charming community nestled in the heart of Cumberland County, presents a unique landscape for its residents, especially when considering healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 28344, aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. It considers the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities, a crucial factor for managing hypertension, a condition often requiring frequent medical attention. This write-up examines various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in the context of healthcare access.

The primary challenge for Godwin residents is the geographical distribution of healthcare resources. While the town itself offers some local medical services, specialized care often necessitates travel to Fayetteville, the county seat, or even further afield. This immediately places a premium on efficient and reliable transportation. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the availability, accessibility, and affordability of these transportation options, recognizing that timely access to healthcare is paramount for effective hypertension management.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many Godwin residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to Fayetteville, where the majority of specialized medical facilities are located, involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. Traveling to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically requires a drive along US Highway 301, a major north-south artery. The journey, depending on traffic, can range from 20 to 30 minutes.

Another option is to utilize NC Highway 82, which offers a more scenic, albeit potentially slower, route. This road connects Godwin to the broader regional network, eventually leading to Fayetteville. The travel time via NC Highway 82 can be slightly longer, potentially adding 5-10 minutes to the overall commute.

Other roads like Godwin-Falcon Road and South River Road offer alternative routes, particularly for accessing smaller clinics or urgent care facilities. However, these roads are often less maintained and can be subject to traffic congestion during peak hours. The "Hypertension Score" will account for these variations, recognizing that the ease of driving, including road conditions and traffic patterns, significantly impacts healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation in Cumberland County is provided by the Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST). FAST operates a network of bus routes, offering a potentially viable alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of routes serving Godwin specifically is limited. Residents may need to rely on a combination of routes, potentially involving transfers, to reach their healthcare appointments.

The FAST system's route number 15 provides a crucial link, though it may require a transfer. The route's schedule and frequency are critical factors. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the availability of FAST routes, including their frequency, operating hours, and the potential for delays. The presence of ADA-compliant features on FAST buses is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility challenges, a consideration particularly relevant for those managing hypertension.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas. In Godwin, their availability is subject to the same factors that influence their presence in any suburban or rural area: driver availability, surge pricing, and the overall demand. While ride-sharing can provide a convenient option, it may not always be the most affordable or reliable solution, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized approach. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive at their appointments safely. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including First Choice Medical Transportation and Care Ride. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the availability, cost, and reliability of these services, recognizing their potential to significantly improve healthcare access for those with hypertension.

**Assessing Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" will integrate all these factors to provide a holistic assessment of healthcare access in Godwin. It will consider the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The score will also factor in the distance to various healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency rooms.

The "Hypertension Score" will provide an understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist for Godwin residents. It will highlight the importance of reliable transportation in managing hypertension and underscore the need for strategies to improve healthcare access. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Godwin.

**Conclusion: Implications for Residents**

For residents of Godwin, particularly those managing hypertension, the availability of efficient and affordable transportation is critical. While the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transport, the FAST bus system, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options offer valuable alternatives. The "Hypertension Score" will provide a valuable tool for residents and prospective residents, helping them to understand the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It also highlights the potential benefits of living in a community with accessible healthcare and transportation options, an important factor for anyone considering moving to Godwin.