28467, Calabash, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.43 percent of residents in 28467 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 19.24 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Calabash, NC (ZIP Code 28467)

Relocating to the charming coastal town of Calabash, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28467), promises a slower pace and scenic beauty. However, prospective residents must consider a critical factor: access to healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and around Calabash.

The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits are essential for managing this condition. This score considers the time, cost, and ease of accessing necessary healthcare services, taking into account the available transportation infrastructure.

**The Score's Components:**

The Hypertension Score is built on several key components. First, we examine the accessibility of primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, nephrologists), pharmacies, and emergency medical services (EMS). Second, we assess the available transportation options: personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. Finally, we weigh the impact of these transportation choices on the overall healthcare experience, considering factors like travel time, cost, and convenience.

**Personal Vehicle Accessibility:**

Calabash's relative isolation means personal vehicles are the most common transportation method. Primary care physicians are located in Calabash itself, with several practices situated along **North Carolina Highway 17 (Ocean Highway)**, the town's main thoroughfare. Travel times to these facilities are generally minimal, offering a convenient option for routine appointments.

Specialist care, however, often necessitates travel outside Calabash. The nearest hospitals and cardiology practices are in **Shallotte**, a short drive north via **Highway 17**. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. For more specialized care, such as nephrology or advanced cardiac procedures, residents may need to travel to **Wilmington**, approximately an hour's drive via **Highway 17** and **US 74/76**.

Pharmacies are readily available within Calabash, primarily along **Highway 17**, ensuring easy access to medication refills. Emergency services, including ambulances, are also readily accessible, with response times varying depending on location within the ZIP code. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialist care and advanced medical procedures introduces a potential challenge for those unable to drive or with mobility limitations.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Calabash are limited. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) provides some services, but routes and schedules are not designed to serve the specific healthcare needs of hypertension patients. The system primarily focuses on providing transportation to essential services.

The BCTS operates on fixed routes, with limited frequency. The routes primarily serve the Shallotte area, with some connections to neighboring towns. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is limited, and the routes are not specifically designed to facilitate easy access to medical appointments. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Calabash, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. Availability may be limited, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, particularly for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Med-Ride and First Transit, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may involve higher costs than other transportation options.

**The Hypertension Score: A Summary**

Considering the factors discussed, the Hypertension Score for Calabash, NC (ZIP Code 28467) reflects a mixed picture. While access to primary care and pharmacies within Calabash is generally good, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialist care and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges.

The score is influenced by the need to travel to Shallotte or Wilmington for specialist appointments. The lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services further impact the score. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations.

**Overall, the Hypertension Score for Calabash, NC (28467) is moderate.** While the town itself offers convenient access to primary care and pharmacies, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialist care and the limited transportation options can create barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals considering moving to Calabash, NC (28467) with hypertension, several recommendations are essential. First, assess your ability to drive and maintain a personal vehicle. Second, investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Third, consider the proximity of specialist care facilities and the potential travel times.

Moving to Calabash offers a desirable lifestyle. However, a careful assessment of healthcare access, considering the available transportation options, is crucial. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure a smooth transition to this charming coastal community.

**Conclusion:**

The Hypertension Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access in Calabash. While the town offers many advantages, individuals with hypertension must carefully consider the transportation infrastructure and its impact on their ability to receive timely and convenient medical care. This assessment underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need to explore all available transportation options to ensure a healthy and fulfilling life in this beautiful coastal community. The ability to manage hypertension effectively is directly linked to the ease of access to healthcare services. Therefore, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for anyone considering moving to Calabash.