28508, Albertson, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.74 percent of residents in 28508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.01 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Albertson, NC (ZIP Code 28508)

The pursuit of optimal health, especially for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates seamless access to healthcare. This write-up delves into the complexities of healthcare access within ZIP Code 28508 (Albertson, North Carolina), focusing on transportation options and their impact on a hypothetical "Hypertension Score." This score, though not a formal medical metric, represents the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, factoring in travel time, mode of transportation, and accessibility. For those considering moving to Albertson, understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making.

Albertson, a small community in Duplin County, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The rural setting, while offering a slower pace of life, often translates to limited public transportation and greater reliance on personal vehicles. This reality directly influences the Hypertension Score, highlighting the importance of transportation infrastructure.

**The Highway to Healthcare: Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary arteries connecting Albertson to healthcare facilities are US Highway 117 and NC Highway 903. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic fluctuations, especially during peak hours or when agricultural equipment is on the road. The nearest major medical centers are located in Goldsboro (Wayne County) and Jacksonville (Onslow County), both requiring significant travel times.

Reaching Wayne UNC Health Care in Goldsboro, a hospital with specialized cardiology services, typically involves a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes via US-117 North. This journey, while relatively straightforward, can be affected by weather conditions and potential traffic delays. For individuals with hypertension, minimizing travel time is critical, as it reduces stress and ensures timely access to medical attention.

Alternatively, access to Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, a hospital with a cardiology department, requires a longer drive, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily via NC-903 South and US-258 South. This extended travel time increases the risk of complications during emergencies and can be a significant barrier to routine checkups. The Hypertension Score reflects this increased travel burden, recognizing the impact on healthcare access.

Local clinics and physician offices within Albertson and nearby towns like Wallace offer primary care services. However, these facilities may not provide specialized cardiology care, necessitating travel to larger hospitals for comprehensive treatment. The Hypertension Score acknowledges the importance of proximity to primary care providers while highlighting the need for access to specialized services.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Albertson are extremely limited. Duplin County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The absence of readily available public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation. This can include ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, or assistance from family and friends. The availability and affordability of these options directly influence the Hypertension Score, reflecting the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles.

While there are no fixed-route bus services, the county may offer limited demand-response transportation, which requires advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit, essential for individuals with mobility impairments, further diminishes the Hypertension Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be sporadic, particularly in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing directly impact the Hypertension Score, recognizing the potential for transportation barriers.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services, often provided by companies like Firstat Nursing Services or MedTrans, offer a more reliable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, these services come at a cost, which can be a barrier to healthcare access for some. The Hypertension Score acknowledges the value of medical transportation but also considers the financial implications.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Hypertension Score for Albertson, NC, reflects the interplay of these factors. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized medical care. The longer travel times to hospitals with cardiology services further contribute to a lower score.

The score is improved by the presence of local clinics and physician offices providing primary care, the availability of ride-sharing services (though limited), and the existence of medical transportation providers. The score emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration for individuals managing hypertension, especially those considering moving to Albertson.

The Hypertension Score is not a static measure. It can be improved through initiatives aimed at enhancing transportation access. This could include advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, or supporting the expansion of medical transportation services. Furthermore, the development of telehealth services could play a crucial role in improving healthcare access for residents of Albertson, reducing the need for extensive travel.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Albertson**

Living with hypertension in Albertson requires proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, it also presents challenges regarding healthcare access. The Hypertension Score serves as a reminder of the importance of considering transportation factors when making healthcare decisions.

For those considering moving to Albertson, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. Evaluating the availability of transportation options, including ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the support of family and friends, is crucial. Understanding the drive times to healthcare facilities and the potential for delays is also important.

By proactively addressing these transportation challenges, residents of Albertson can effectively manage their hypertension and access the healthcare services they need. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access and promoting a healthier future for the community. The journey to healthcare in Albertson, though sometimes challenging, is navigable with careful planning and a commitment to prioritizing health.