28409, Wilmington, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28409, Wilmington, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.16 percent of residents in 28409 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 Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.41 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilmington's 28409

Considering a move to Wilmington, North Carolina, and concerned about managing hypertension? This write-up provides a detailed “Hypertension Score” assessment for ZIP Code 28409, focusing on transportation options to access healthcare, crucial for consistent medical attention. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility.

Living with hypertension demands consistent monitoring and medication. This score helps you understand the ease of navigating the transportation landscape to reach your doctor, pharmacy, or specialist. We'll delve into the practical realities of getting from your home in 28409 to the care you need, ensuring you can make informed decisions about your health and your new home.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

The primary arteries for navigating 28409 are US-17, leading north and south, and US-74/76, heading east and west. These major thoroughfares are critical for reaching healthcare facilities. Traffic patterns, especially during peak hours, significantly impact drive times.

Driving to New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the largest hospital in Wilmington, from various points within 28409 presents a varied experience. Residents in the northern reaches of the zip code, closer to US-17, might face a 15-20 minute drive, assuming moderate traffic. Those residing further south, closer to Carolina Beach Road, could experience a 25-35 minute commute, especially during rush hour.

Accessing smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout Wilmington requires a more nuanced approach. Locations off major roads, like those nestled along Oleander Drive or College Road, might involve navigating congested intersections and slower secondary routes. Expect drive times to vary from 10-30 minutes, dependent on the specific location and time of day.

The ease of parking is another factor. NHRMC and larger medical complexes offer ample parking, but the distance from the parking lot to the clinic can be a consideration for those with mobility limitations. Smaller practices often have limited parking, potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Waves of the Wave Transit**

Wave Transit, Wilmington's public transportation system, provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, its coverage within 28409 and its overall frequency present challenges for consistent healthcare access.

Route 101, the primary route serving 28409, runs along Carolina Beach Road, offering access to some medical facilities along the way. Route 201, which runs along College Road, provides access to other clinics and medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

ADA accessibility is a crucial aspect of Wave Transit. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can still pose difficulties for those with frequent appointments or urgent needs.

The commute time on Wave Transit is significantly longer than driving. A trip to NHRMC from within 28409 could easily take an hour or more, factoring in wait times and transfers. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for individuals managing hypertension, who require timely access to medication and medical attention.

**Ride-Sharing & Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide on-demand transportation options within 28409. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for those with limited mobility or who prefer not to drive.

Ride-sharing costs can vary depending on demand, time of day, and distance. While generally more expensive than public transit, they offer the flexibility of door-to-door service, reducing the stress and time associated with travel.

Medical transport services, such as First Medical Transport and Coastal Transport, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient care.

Medical transport services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing. However, they provide a higher level of care and support, making them a valuable option for individuals with significant mobility limitations or complex medical needs.

**Pharmacy Access: The Crucial Link**

Access to pharmacies within 28409 is generally good. Numerous pharmacies, including chain pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS, and independent pharmacies, are located throughout the zip code.

Drive times to pharmacies are generally short, often within a 5-15 minute radius, depending on location. Public transit access to pharmacies is also available via Wave Transit routes, although travel times may be longer.

Ride-sharing and medical transport can also be utilized to access pharmacies, providing flexibility for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 28409 is a composite measure, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to NHRMC and other key healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, coverage, and ADA accessibility of Wave Transit routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of specialized medical transport services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** The proximity and accessibility of pharmacies within the zip code.

This score is not a single number, but rather a nuanced assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option.

**Recommendations for Managing Hypertension in 28409**

* **Assess Your Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive, your comfort level with public transit, and your budget for ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Choose a Convenient Healthcare Provider:** Select a primary care physician and specialists located within a reasonable distance from your home, minimizing travel times.
* **Plan Your Appointments:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering traffic patterns and public transit schedules.
* **Utilize Prescription Delivery Services:** Explore the option of mail-order prescriptions or pharmacy delivery services to reduce the need for frequent trips to the pharmacy.
* **Consider a Medical Alert System:** For individuals living alone, a medical alert system can provide peace of mind in case of a medical emergency.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Move**

Moving to Wilmington and managing hypertension requires careful consideration of healthcare access. ZIP Code 28409 offers a mix of transportation options, with varying degrees of convenience and accessibility. By understanding the transportation landscape, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and ensure your move to Wilmington is a success. The key is to proactively assess your needs, plan accordingly, and leverage the available resources to maintain your health and well-being. The availability of diverse transportation options makes moving to Wilmington a viable option for those with hypertension, provided they plan accordingly.