28582, Stella, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28582, Stella, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.02 percent of residents in 28582 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 11.18 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stella, NC (ZIP Code 28582)

The crisp air of coastal North Carolina, the scent of salt and pine, and the allure of a slower pace of life – these are the promises that draw many to the charming community of Stella (ZIP Code 28582). Yet, alongside the idyllic scenery, potential residents must consider a crucial factor: **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the practicalities of reaching medical care, specifically for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. We will assess the **transportation** landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of travel, to determine a "Hypertension Score" for this area, a key consideration for anyone **moving to Stella**.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access lies in the rural nature of the region. While Stella itself offers a sense of tranquility, it is not a hub for specialized medical facilities. The nearest hospitals and comprehensive healthcare providers are located in neighboring towns, primarily in Morehead City and Jacksonville. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most residents, making **transportation** a critical determinant of the Hypertension Score.

Let's begin with the most common mode: driving. From Stella, the journey to Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, a major regional hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 25-35 minutes. The most direct route utilizes US Highway 24 East, a well-maintained thoroughfare that provides a relatively smooth and predictable commute. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours or on weekends, can extend this travel time. The journey to Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, a larger facility with a wider range of specialized services, is a longer undertaking. Expect a drive of around 45-60 minutes, primarily via US Highway 24 West and then onto NC Highway 17 South. This route involves navigating a greater distance and potentially encountering heavier traffic, especially near Jacksonville.

The reliability of these drive times is crucial for individuals managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency situations demand prompt and predictable access to care. Any significant delays can negatively impact the Hypertension Score, increasing the risk of complications. The ease of navigating these routes is also important, especially for those with mobility limitations or visual impairments.

Public **transportation** options in this area are limited. The Onslow County Area Transit System (OCATS) provides some bus service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to the needs of healthcare access for Stella residents. The routes, while offering some connectivity, are infrequent, with limited weekend service. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, while present, may not be guaranteed on every route or at all times. Therefore, relying solely on public transit for regular healthcare appointments would be challenging, and likely score poorly for a hypertensive patient.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments. While these services can provide a valuable backup option, they are unlikely to be a primary **transportation** solution for managing hypertension in Stella.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another consideration. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations or other needs. These services often require advance booking and may involve higher costs compared to other options. However, they can provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other **transportation** alternatives. The availability and responsiveness of these services are important factors in evaluating the Hypertension Score.

The infrastructure of the roads and highways also plays a role. The condition of US Highway 24 and NC Highway 17, and the presence of traffic lights and intersections, can influence travel times and the overall convenience of accessing healthcare. Well-maintained roads contribute to a smoother and safer journey, while poorly maintained roads can exacerbate the challenges of commuting.

The availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within Stella itself is another factor. While Stella may not have a full-service hospital, the presence of local pharmacies for medication refills and urgent care clinics for minor health concerns can significantly improve the Hypertension Score. These local resources can reduce the need for frequent long-distance travel, providing greater convenience and peace of mind.

Considering all these factors, we can formulate a preliminary Hypertension Score for Stella (ZIP Code 28582). The score will reflect the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the overall convenience of accessing medical care.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for longer drive times to specialized medical facilities, the Hypertension Score for Stella is moderately impacted. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, residents must carefully consider the **transportation** challenges associated with managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The score would be improved by increased public transit frequency and routes, the consistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of more local healthcare resources. For individuals **moving to Stella**, particularly those with hypertension, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and a proactive plan for accessing healthcare are essential. This includes establishing relationships with healthcare providers, exploring medical **transportation** options, and understanding the potential impact of travel times on their health management. The dream of a tranquil coastal life in Stella must be balanced with the practical realities of healthcare access, making informed decisions about **transportation** and healthcare a crucial part of the transition.