28453, Magnolia, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28453, Magnolia, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.60 percent of residents in 28453 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Magnolia, NC (ZIP Code 28453)

The quaint town of Magnolia, North Carolina, nestled in Duplin County, presents a unique challenge for its residents when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 28453, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities and ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of receiving timely and appropriate care. For those considering moving to Magnolia, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and often, medication. This necessitates regular appointments, making reliable transportation a fundamental aspect of healthcare management. The geographical layout of Magnolia, while charming, introduces complexities in navigating to and from medical appointments.

The primary thoroughfare in Magnolia is US Highway 117, a critical artery connecting the town to neighboring communities and larger healthcare hubs. Driving times to medical facilities will be a key factor in our assessment. Residents will also rely on secondary roads such as NC Highway 24 and NC Highway 903 to reach their destinations.

For individuals with personal vehicles, the drive to the closest significant medical center, Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton, typically takes approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Magnolia. This drive primarily involves traveling on US-117 and then connecting to US-421. The distance is roughly 20 miles. While seemingly manageable, this drive can be a significant barrier for those with mobility limitations or without access to a car.

Another healthcare option is New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, which is approximately 45-60 minutes away via NC-24 and US-117. This longer commute adds another layer of complexity, especially for individuals requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing acute health issues. The need for timely access to healthcare is paramount for those with hypertension.

Public transportation options in and around Magnolia are limited. Duplin County does not have a formal public bus system. The lack of a readily available public transit system poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or cannot afford a personal vehicle. This severely impacts healthcare access, particularly for elderly residents or those with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence is not as consistent or readily accessible as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can become expensive and unreliable, creating another hurdle for those with hypertension.

Medical transportation services are available, though the specific brands operating directly in Magnolia are limited. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services. However, these services are often reserved for urgent situations or for patients requiring specialized assistance. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any potential public transportation options would be a critical factor for individuals with mobility issues. Given the lack of a formal public transit system, this consideration is currently moot.

The "Hypertension Score" for Magnolia, NC (28453) is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the relatively long distances to major healthcare facilities, and the absence of a robust public transit system create substantial challenges for residents managing hypertension. The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transportation further exacerbate these difficulties.

For individuals considering moving to Magnolia, understanding these transportation limitations is essential. Careful consideration should be given to the availability of personal transportation or the potential costs associated with relying on ride-sharing or medical transport services. Proximity to healthcare facilities, while available, is not always easily accessible.

The lack of readily available transportation options directly impacts the ability of residents to adhere to their prescribed medication regimens and attend regular check-ups, which are critical for managing hypertension effectively. This can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs in the long run.

The ideal scenario would involve the development of a more accessible public transit system, potentially incorporating ADA-compliant features. This would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their ability to drive or their financial resources.

The current transportation landscape in Magnolia necessitates careful planning and resourcefulness for those managing hypertension. While the town offers a peaceful and welcoming environment, the challenges associated with healthcare access must be acknowledged. The "Hypertension Score" for Magnolia reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure to ensure that all residents can receive the timely and appropriate care they need to maintain their health and well-being. The future of healthcare access in Magnolia hinges on addressing these transportation barriers.