Hypertension Score

28616, Crossnore, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

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Health Scores

Travel Score in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.18 percent of residents in 28616 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Charles A Cannon Jr Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.12 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina

Hypertension Score 63
People Score 46
Provider Score 49
Hospital Score 83
Travel Score 32

Closest Hospital - CHARLES A CANNON JR MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 28616 Crossnore North Carolina
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.14
1 Car 0.00 0.00 19.36
2 Cars 40.91 40.91 40.83
3 or More Cars 59.09 59.09 37.67

Vehicular Access in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina

Travel Score Review of 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crossnore, NC (ZIP Code 28616)

Considering a move to the serene mountain community of Crossnore, North Carolina (ZIP code 28616)? This assessment delves into the complexities of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the transportation landscape for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the challenges and opportunities in this realm is crucial for making informed decisions about your well-being. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease of accessing essential medical care.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the reality that consistent healthcare, including regular check-ups and medication refills, is paramount for managing hypertension. The ability to reliably reach medical appointments is not merely a convenience; it is a necessity. This write-up explores the transportation options available within and surrounding Crossnore, offering a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for those with hypertension.

Crossnore, nestled in Avery County, presents a unique environment. Its beauty and tranquility are undeniable, but its rural setting also influences healthcare access. The primary concern is the distance to medical facilities, which necessitates a thorough examination of transportation options.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Route**

The most common mode of transportation in Crossnore is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The primary artery connecting Crossnore to larger towns and healthcare providers is US-221. Heading south on US-221 provides access to the county seat of Newland, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Newland hosts the Avery County Health Department, a crucial resource for preventative care and chronic disease management.

Further south, US-221 intersects with NC-194, leading to Banner Elk (another 15-20 minute drive from Crossnore) and Boone (roughly a 40-50 minute drive). Boone is the home of Watauga Medical Center, a larger hospital offering a wider range of specialized services. The journey to Boone involves navigating winding mountain roads, which can be challenging, especially during inclement weather.

The drive times mentioned are estimates and can fluctuate depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions. Winter in the mountains can bring snow and ice, significantly impacting travel times and safety. Individuals with hypertension should factor these variables into their planning, ensuring they have contingency plans for accessing healthcare during adverse conditions.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, ADA Considerations**

Public transportation options in Avery County are limited. The primary provider is the Avery County Transportation Authority (ACTA). ACTA offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is essential for those without personal vehicles, but its limitations are worth noting.

ACTA's service area encompasses Avery County, including Crossnore, Newland, Banner Elk, and portions of Watauga County. The availability of rides is dependent on scheduling and the availability of drivers. Individuals with hypertension, requiring frequent appointments, must plan meticulously and book rides well in advance.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. ACTA is obligated to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility impairments. This includes vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles may be limited, and advance notice is necessary to ensure availability.

The infrequent nature of public transit in this area, coupled with the need for advance scheduling, presents a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension. The reliance on a single provider and the potential for delays can create stress and impede timely access to care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The Modern Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally available in the larger towns like Boone, but their presence in Crossnore is less certain. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not recommended.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more reliable alternative. These services cater to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies such as LogistiCare and MTM (Medical Transportation Management) operate in the region, providing services for Medicaid and other insurance plans.

The availability and coverage of NEMT services depend on insurance plans and eligibility criteria. Individuals with hypertension should verify their insurance coverage for NEMT services and understand the process for scheduling rides. NEMT offers a more dependable solution than ride-sharing, but it still requires advance planning and coordination.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Recommendations**

The "Hypertension Score" for Crossnore (ZIP code 28616) is, therefore, moderately challenging. While the area offers natural beauty and a peaceful lifestyle, healthcare access presents significant hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing create challenges for those managing hypertension.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When choosing a residence, consider proximity to medical facilities and pharmacies.
* **Evaluate Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for NEMT services and explore all available options.
* **Develop a Transportation Plan:** Create a comprehensive transportation plan, including backup options, for medical appointments.
* **Consider Weather Contingencies:** Plan for potential weather-related delays and have alternative transportation arrangements in place.
* **Communicate with Healthcare Providers:** Inform healthcare providers about transportation challenges and discuss strategies for managing appointments and medication refills.
* **Explore Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication management, when appropriate.

**Conclusion: A Balancing Act**

Moving to Crossnore presents a trade-off. The tranquility and natural beauty are undeniable, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. Individuals with hypertension must proactively address the transportation challenges, leveraging available resources and developing robust plans to ensure consistent access to medical care. The "Hypertension Score" underscores the need for meticulous planning and proactive engagement with healthcare providers to successfully navigate the transportation landscape and maintain optimal health in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community. Understanding these factors is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Crossnore.

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Health Scores Near 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina

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Health Scores in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina