28617, Crumpler, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28617, Crumpler, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 28617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crumpler, NC (ZIP Code 28617)

The crisp mountain air of Crumpler, North Carolina, offers a serene backdrop for life, but the reality of healthcare access in this rural community requires careful consideration, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 28617, assessing its impact on healthcare access and providing a "Hypertension Score" to help potential residents understand the challenges and opportunities. The score, presented at the end, is a composite metric reflecting the ease of reaching essential medical services.

Moving to Crumpler necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension, is paramount. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation infrastructure.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Crumpler is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The mountainous terrain and dispersed population necessitate reliance on roadways. The most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the winding roads and scenic vistas.

**Route 16**, a vital artery, connects Crumpler to the larger towns of West Jefferson and Wilkesboro. Driving to **Ashe Memorial Hospital** in Jefferson, a crucial healthcare hub, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive primarily utilizes Route 16.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Wilkesboro. The journey to **Wilkes Medical Center** involves taking Route 16 south and then connecting to **US Highway 421**. This drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic or inclement weather.

Other important roads include **Old NC 16**, which offers alternative routes, and various county roads that provide access to local businesses and services. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Crumpler are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. The **Ashe County Transportation System** (ACTS) provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system offers curb-to-curb transportation for residents, including those needing medical appointments.

ACTS operates within Ashe County and can provide transportation to medical facilities within the county, including Ashe Memorial Hospital. However, travel outside the county, to Wilkesboro for example, is generally not available through ACTS, requiring a transfer or alternative arrangements.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. ACTS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling can pose challenges for those with urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Crumpler is sporadic. Availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore risky.

Medical transport services, on the other hand, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services typically require pre-booking and can transport individuals who need assistance with mobility.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide:** Offers NEMT services throughout the region, including to and from Crumpler.
* **Medical Transport of North Carolina:** Provides a wide range of medical transportation options.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** In emergency situations, local ambulance services are available.

These services can be a lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and availability may be limited.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves other critical factors. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services within a reasonable distance is crucial.

Ashe Memorial Hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. However, specialized care may require travel to larger medical centers in Wilkesboro or beyond.

The availability of pharmacies and access to prescription medications are also essential. Crumpler has local pharmacies, but the range of services and medications may be limited compared to larger towns.

**The Hypertension Score:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare access considerations, a "Hypertension Score" is assigned to ZIP code 28617. This score reflects the overall ease of accessing healthcare, specifically for individuals managing hypertension.

**Scoring Methodology:**

The score is based on a 1-10 scale, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest. The following factors are considered:

* **Drive Times to Primary Care:** (Weight: 30%) Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Drive Times to Emergency Care:** (Weight: 25%) Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** (Weight: 15%) More reliable and accessible public transit receives higher scores.
* **Availability of Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** (Weight: 15%) Greater availability and affordability receive higher scores.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** (Weight: 15%) Closer proximity and wider service offerings receive higher scores.

**Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 28617: 5.5**

**Interpretation:**

A score of 5.5 indicates a moderate level of healthcare access. While Ashe Memorial Hospital provides essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The need for travel to Wilkesboro for specialized care further complicates healthcare access. The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable alternative for some, but the cost and pre-booking requirements are significant considerations.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Register with a local primary care physician and establish a relationship for routine care.
* **Plan for Transportation:** Develop a transportation plan for medical appointments, including carpooling, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Consider Proximity to Pharmacies:** Identify local pharmacies and ensure access to necessary medications.
* **Stay Informed:** Stay informed about local transportation options, including ACTS services and medical transport providers.
* **Prepare for Emergencies:** Have a plan for emergencies, including knowing the location of the nearest emergency room and having a backup transportation plan.

Moving to Crumpler offers a unique lifestyle, but prospective residents, particularly those managing hypertension, must carefully consider the implications of transportation on their healthcare access. The Hypertension Score provides a valuable tool for assessing the challenges and opportunities, enabling informed decisions and proactive planning. By understanding the transportation landscape and taking the necessary steps, residents can successfully navigate the healthcare system and maintain their well-being in this beautiful mountain community.