28438, Evergreen, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28438, Evergreen, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.51 percent of residents in 28438 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 13.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Evergreen (ZIP Code 28438)

The quaint charm of Evergreen, North Carolina (ZIP code 28438), a community nestled amidst the rolling landscapes of Columbus County, promises a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the practicalities of healthcare access become paramount. This write-up explores the transportation landscape in and around Evergreen, evaluating its impact on healthcare access, and providing a "Hypertension Score" based on these factors. This score aims to offer a realistic assessment for those considering moving to Evergreen, particularly those prioritizing convenient access to medical care.

The cornerstone of our assessment revolves around the crucial connection between transportation and healthcare. Effective transportation is not merely about getting from point A to point B; it's about timely access to medications, regular check-ups, and specialized treatments. For individuals with hypertension, these elements are vital for managing their condition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Delays or difficulties in transportation can lead to missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and ultimately, compromised health outcomes.

**The Hypertension Score Methodology**

The "Hypertension Score" will be a composite measure reflecting the ease of access to healthcare facilities from various points within ZIP code 28438. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. Each category will be assigned a weighted score, with higher scores indicating better access and lower scores reflecting greater challenges. The final score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the least accessible and 10 representing the most accessible.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For many Evergreen residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare connecting Evergreen to the broader healthcare network is **US Highway 74/76**. Traveling east on 74/76 provides access to medical facilities in Whiteville, the county seat. Drive times to these facilities, including Columbus Regional Healthcare System, typically range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Heading west on 74/76 opens up access to facilities in Wilmington, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, a more comprehensive medical center. However, the commute to Wilmington can be significantly longer, potentially taking up to an hour or more, especially during peak hours. Local roads, such as **NC Highway 131** and **NC Highway 211**, provide alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and more rural driving conditions.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but the presence of occasional traffic and the distance to larger medical centers contribute to the challenges of healthcare access. The convenience of a personal vehicle is undeniable, but it also introduces potential complications such as vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and the physical limitations of driving for individuals with certain health conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Columbus County are limited. The primary provider is Columbus County Transit, offering demand-response services. These services require advance booking and may not be readily available for immediate medical needs. Information regarding specific routes and schedules is essential.

While Columbus County Transit strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible vehicles and the overall coverage area remain constraints. For individuals with mobility impairments, the reliance on demand-response services can present logistical challenges, potentially impacting their ability to attend appointments promptly. The lack of fixed-route bus services, especially connecting Evergreen to larger medical centers, further limits public transit's effectiveness for healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing for critical healthcare needs can be a gamble.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. While NEMT services offer a valuable alternative, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**The Hypertension Score for Evergreen (28438)**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for Evergreen (28438) is estimated to be a **5 out of 10**.

This score reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** While access to Whiteville is relatively convenient, the longer commute to Wilmington significantly impacts the score.
* **Public Transit:** The limited availability and demand-response nature of public transit contribute to a lower score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services further affect the score.
* **Medical Transport:** The presence of NEMT services provides a valuable, albeit potentially costly, option.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Evergreen**

Moving to Evergreen offers the allure of a tranquil lifestyle, but individuals with hypertension must carefully consider the implications of healthcare access. While personal vehicles provide the primary means of transportation, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. The presence of medical transportation services offers a critical lifeline, but their cost and advance booking requirements should be factored into the overall assessment.

For those considering moving to Evergreen, proactive measures are essential. This includes establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, understanding the availability and cost of medical transportation services, and exploring the potential for carpooling or assistance from family and friends. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.