28466, Wallace, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28466, Wallace, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.48 percent of residents in 28466 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.72 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wallace, NC (ZIP Code 28466)

Wallace, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of Duplin County, offers a charming small-town atmosphere. However, when considering a move, especially for individuals managing hypertension, understanding the intricacies of healthcare access becomes paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment for ZIP code 28466, evaluating the availability of transportation options to healthcare facilities, a critical factor in managing this chronic condition.

The foundation of our assessment lies in understanding the drive times to the nearest healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management. The primary artery of transportation in this region is US-117, which traverses the town and connects Wallace to larger medical centers. A quick drive south on US-117 leads to Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, approximately a 15-20 minute journey. This proximity provides a crucial advantage, offering immediate access to emergency care and a range of medical services, including cardiology and internal medicine, both vital for hypertension management.

Venturing further afield, a trip north on US-117 and then east on I-40 opens up access to Wilmington, a larger city with a more extensive network of specialists and hospitals. This route, however, significantly increases travel time. Reaching New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic. This journey, while offering more specialized care, presents a challenge for regular check-ups and medication refills, essential components of hypertension management.

Another key highway, NC-41, provides a direct route to the east, offering an alternative path to Wilmington, though the travel time remains comparable to the US-117/I-40 route. The choice between these routes often depends on traffic conditions and the specific location of the healthcare provider within Wilmington. For those seeking specialists or more advanced treatments, the longer commute to Wilmington is often unavoidable, emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation.

Public transportation options in Wallace are limited. The Duplin County Transportation system offers demand-response services, requiring advance booking. This system, while providing a crucial lifeline for some, may not be ideal for those needing immediate access to healthcare or those with unpredictable appointment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of these services, especially on weekends or during off-peak hours, can be restricted, presenting a significant hurdle for consistent healthcare access.

The Duplin County Transportation system, while striving to provide ADA-compliant services, may face limitations in terms of immediate availability. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges, who might find it difficult to navigate the booking process or the wait times associated with these services. The lack of readily available public transit necessitates a reliance on alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. This makes it a less reliable and potentially expensive option for managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available. However, these services are often reserved for specific medical needs or require prior authorization. The cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for individuals managing hypertension. The need for pre-approval and scheduling can also limit the spontaneity of accessing healthcare.

The availability of pharmacies in Wallace is generally good, with several options for filling prescriptions. However, the proximity of these pharmacies to healthcare providers and the ease of access via transportation are crucial. The ability to quickly and conveniently obtain medications is a cornerstone of hypertension management.

In assessing the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 28466, we must consider the challenges associated with transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, highlighting the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to consistent healthcare access.

For individuals moving to Wallace with hypertension, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating the proximity of healthcare providers, the reliability of their personal transportation, and the availability of backup options, such as family, friends, or medical transportation services. Proactive planning is crucial to ensure seamless access to medical care.

The journey to healthcare is often more than just a physical commute; it's a journey of managing a chronic condition. For those with hypertension, consistent medical care is paramount. The "Hypertension Score" for Wallace, NC, reflects the importance of transportation in this journey. While the town offers a peaceful lifestyle, the availability of transportation to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the quality of life for those managing hypertension.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall score. The score emphasizes the need for careful planning, considering the potential challenges of accessing healthcare, and the importance of ensuring reliable transportation. This is a critical consideration when moving to Wallace.

The availability of healthcare access directly affects the management of hypertension. The ability to attend regular appointments, obtain medications promptly, and seek emergency care when needed is essential. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access in Wallace, NC.

In conclusion, while Wallace offers a desirable lifestyle, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 28466 reveals the importance of understanding the transportation landscape. For individuals managing hypertension, careful consideration of transportation options, proactive planning, and the potential limitations of public transit are crucial for ensuring consistent and timely access to healthcare. This understanding is essential for anyone considering moving to Wallace and managing their hypertension effectively.