28579, Smyrna, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28579, Smyrna, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.98 percent of residents in 28579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 33.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 13.52 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Smyrna, NC (ZIP Code 28579)

Smyrna, North Carolina, a coastal community nestled in Carteret County, offers a unique blend of tranquility and accessibility. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the **transportation** landscape of ZIP Code 28579, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely medical care. This is crucial information for anyone **moving to Smyrna**, particularly those with health considerations.

The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the commute to healthcare facilities. Within ZIP Code 28579, the primary healthcare providers are located in nearby towns, requiring residents to navigate the local roadways. The most direct route often involves utilizing US Highway 70, a vital artery connecting Smyrna to Morehead City and Beaufort. Drive times to these locations, where hospitals and specialist clinics are situated, are generally manageable, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

However, relying solely on US Highway 70 presents potential hurdles. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and afternoons, congestion can increase travel times. Furthermore, the highway's two-lane configuration in certain stretches can lead to delays in the event of accidents or road closures. Alternate routes, such as NC Highway 24, offer secondary options, though these roads may add to the overall travel time, especially when heading west.

For those without personal vehicles, the options become more limited. Public transportation in Carteret County is primarily provided by Carteret County Transportation (CCT). CCT operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While CCT strives to provide door-to-door service, the system's efficiency can be affected by the availability of vehicles and the number of requests.

The CCT system is designed to be ADA accessible, with vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on pre-scheduled rides and the potential for longer travel times pose challenges for individuals experiencing acute hypertensive crises. The lack of fixed-route bus services within ZIP Code 28579 further complicates matters, making healthcare access reliant on either personal vehicles or the demand-response system.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering another **transportation** option. The availability of these services, however, can fluctuate depending on driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility issues or other medical needs. However, the cost of medical transport can be significant, and availability may be limited, especially for short-notice appointments.

The "Hypertension Score" for Smyrna, NC (28579) is not a single number, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of **transportation** options, and the potential for delays all contribute to the overall score.

The reliance on personal vehicles, US Highway 70, and the demand-response nature of CCT suggest that individuals with hypertension in Smyrna should proactively plan their healthcare access. This includes scheduling appointments in advance, allowing ample travel time, and having backup **transportation** plans in place.

Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides additional options, although these services may come with cost considerations. The absence of fixed-route public transit and the potential for traffic congestion on US Highway 70 highlight the need for careful planning and consideration of all available options.

For those **moving to Smyrna** with hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of researching local healthcare providers, assessing **transportation** options, and understanding the potential challenges and opportunities. This proactive approach can ensure timely access to medical care and contribute to effective hypertension management.

The assessment also emphasizes the need for individuals to consider the impact of traffic on US Highway 70. Morning and afternoon commutes can be particularly congested, and any accidents or road closures can dramatically increase travel times. This is especially critical for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis.

The CCT system, while ADA accessible, requires advance scheduling, which may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The ride-sharing services offer more flexibility, but driver availability and cost can be significant considerations. Medical transport services provide specialized support, but they are often expensive and may require advance booking.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a definitive judgment of the quality of life in Smyrna, but rather a practical assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access**. The score emphasizes the need for individuals with hypertension to be proactive in planning their healthcare needs, considering all available **transportation** options, and understanding the potential for delays.

In conclusion, Smyrna, NC (28579) offers a relatively manageable **transportation** landscape for individuals with hypertension. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of various **transportation** options, and the ADA accessibility of CCT are positive factors. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion on US Highway 70, and the limitations of the demand-response public transit system present challenges.

For those **moving to Smyrna**, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care and effectively managing hypertension. By proactively planning their healthcare needs, utilizing available resources, and being prepared for potential delays, residents can navigate the **transportation** landscape and maintain their health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" encourages a proactive approach, fostering a community where individuals with hypertension can thrive.