28424, Brunswick, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28424, Brunswick, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.94 percent of residents in 28424 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 3.41 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brunswick County (ZIP Code 28424)

Considering a move to the charming coastal community of Brunswick County, specifically within the 28424 ZIP code? Perhaps you're already a resident, concerned about managing hypertension and the accessibility of necessary healthcare. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape, crucial for understanding your "Hypertension Score" – a measure of how easily you can access medical care, particularly for managing hypertension. This score is heavily influenced by transportation options, a vital component of healthcare access.

The 28424 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Brunswick County, including the towns of Calabash, Sunset Beach, and parts of Ocean Isle Beach. Its geography, a blend of barrier islands, waterways, and mainland, presents unique transportation challenges. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments is paramount for effective hypertension management.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in this area. The major thoroughfare is **Highway 17**, a vital artery connecting the coastal communities. Drive times to healthcare facilities fluctuate depending on traffic, especially during peak seasons. For example, reaching the nearest major hospital, **Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center** in Bolivia, from Calabash can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic flow on Highway 17.

Navigating the smaller roads is crucial. **Highway 904** provides access to Sunset Beach and connects to Highway 17. Similarly, **Highway 179** offers access to Ocean Isle Beach. These routes, while scenic, can become congested, impacting drive times to medical appointments. Remember, consistent and timely medication adherence is crucial for hypertension management, and transportation delays can directly impact your health.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Brunswick County are limited. The county operates a public transit system, **Brunswick County Transit**, which primarily serves as a demand-response service. This means you must schedule rides in advance. While this service offers door-to-door transportation, it's not designed for spontaneous trips.

The transit system’s routes are not fixed and are tailored to individual requests, making it difficult to estimate travel times. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on pre-booked rides and the potential for longer travel times due to multiple stops can present challenges for those needing frequent medical attention. This impacts the Hypertension Score, as reliance on this service can be unpredictable.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Costs can also fluctuate based on demand, adding another layer of complexity to planning transportation to medical appointments.

For those with specific medical needs, several medical transport services operate in Brunswick County. **MedStar Ambulance Service** and **Brunswick County EMS** provide emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are crucial for individuals unable to drive or utilize other transportation options. However, they require pre-authorization and may not be suitable for routine check-ups or medication refills.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Assessment**

The availability of healthcare facilities within the 28424 ZIP code is a significant factor in your Hypertension Score. While the area boasts several primary care physicians and specialists, the distance to specialized care, such as cardiology, can be a concern. The proximity to Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center is a significant advantage, but drive times, as discussed earlier, must be considered.

The availability of pharmacies for medication refills is another critical element. Several pharmacies are located within the 28424 ZIP code, offering convenient access to essential medications. However, if you rely on mail-order prescriptions, you must factor in delivery times and potential delays.

**Moving to Brunswick: A Transportation Perspective**

If you're considering moving to Brunswick County, especially if you have hypertension, carefully assess your transportation needs. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, and the availability of public transit and ride-share services is limited. Consider the location of your home relative to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services.

Factor in potential traffic delays on Highway 17 and other roads, especially during peak tourist seasons. Evaluate your ability to drive, and if you cannot, explore the availability and reliability of ride-share, medical transport, and Brunswick County Transit.

**Conclusion: A Holistic Approach**

Managing hypertension effectively requires a multifaceted approach, and transportation is a critical component. Your "Hypertension Score" in the 28424 ZIP code is influenced by several factors: drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and the proximity of healthcare facilities.

A well-informed understanding of the transportation landscape allows you to make informed decisions about your healthcare. By proactively addressing transportation challenges, you can ensure consistent access to medical care, medication refills, and the overall support needed to manage your hypertension effectively. This proactive approach directly contributes to a higher "Hypertension Score" and a better quality of life in your new community.