28640, Jefferson, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.18 percent of residents in 28640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640)

Considering a move to the charming town of Jefferson, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28640)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, specifically focusing on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. This score considers the ease of *transportation* to medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative options. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining consistent healthcare, a cornerstone of effective hypertension management.

Jefferson, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare *access*. The rural landscape, while beautiful, often translates to longer travel distances. This write-up aims to provide a clear picture of what to expect, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions.

The Hypertension Score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on several key components. It considers drive times to healthcare providers, the availability and reliability of public *transportation*, and the practicality of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to assess the overall ease of getting to appointments, picking up medications, and accessing emergency care.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary method of *transportation* in Jefferson is by personal vehicle. The most significant healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity is Ashe Memorial Hospital, located in Jefferson itself. Reaching the hospital from most residential areas within 28640 is generally straightforward.

Driving times are typically short. From the center of town, a journey to Ashe Memorial Hospital should take around five minutes. The main thoroughfare within Jefferson is US-221, a well-maintained road that provides easy access to the hospital. Residents living in the outlying areas, such as those near the New River or in the more mountainous regions, may experience slightly longer drive times, but even then, the journey should be under 20 minutes.

For specialized care or services not available locally, residents may need to travel to larger regional medical centers. The closest major city is Boone, North Carolina, home to Watauga Medical Center. The drive to Boone from Jefferson primarily utilizes US-421 South. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and specific location within Jefferson. This journey can be longer during peak travel times, especially during the fall foliage season.

Further afield, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, offers a wider array of specialist services. The journey involves a combination of US-421 South and I-77 South, covering a distance of approximately 100 miles. The drive time is typically around two hours, making this option less practical for routine appointments but potentially necessary for specialized treatments.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

Public *transportation* options in Jefferson are limited. The local *transportation* system is primarily focused on providing services for the elderly and disabled. This means that while public *transportation* exists, it is not a readily available option for the general population, especially those requiring frequent access to healthcare.

The Ashe County *Transportation* Authority (ACTA) operates a demand-response system. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance. The availability of this service can vary depending on demand and resource availability. The ACTA vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited scope and the need for pre-booking may make it less suitable for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments.

For individuals managing hypertension, the unreliability of public *transportation* can pose a significant challenge. Missed appointments or delays can disrupt medication schedules and compromise overall health management.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jefferson area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. The wait times for a ride can be longer, and the number of drivers may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours. This makes ride-sharing a potentially unreliable option for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services are available, primarily for non-emergency medical *transportation*. These services often cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves or who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport providers serve the Jefferson area. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the type of assistance required, and the specific provider.

**Hypertension Score Considerations:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 28640 reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** Relatively short drive times to Ashe Memorial Hospital are a positive factor. However, longer drive times to regional medical centers in Boone and Winston-Salem impact the score negatively, particularly for those requiring specialized care.
* **Public Transportation:** The limited availability and reliability of public *transportation* significantly detract from the score. The need for pre-booking and the lack of frequent service make it less suitable for managing a chronic condition like hypertension.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** While ride-sharing services are available, their reliability is questionable. Medical transport services offer a viable alternative but come with associated costs.

**Overall Assessment:**

The Hypertension Score for Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640) is moderate. While the presence of Ashe Memorial Hospital and the relatively short drive times to it are favorable, the limited public *transportation* options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services present challenges.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension Considering *Moving to Jefferson*:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Carefully evaluate your *transportation* needs and ability to drive. If you are unable to drive or prefer not to, the limited public *transportation* options may necessitate relying on family, friends, or medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the proximity of your chosen residence to Ashe Memorial Hospital.
* **Medication Management:** Establish a reliable system for medication refills and pick-ups, considering potential travel times.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Plan for emergency medical situations, including readily available *transportation* options.
* **Healthcare Provider Network:** Identify and establish a relationship with a primary care physician and other healthcare providers in the area.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as senior centers or social service agencies, that may offer assistance with *transportation* or healthcare-related needs.

*Moving to Jefferson* can be a rewarding experience, offering a slower pace of life and stunning natural beauty. However, individuals with hypertension must carefully consider the challenges of healthcare *access* and plan accordingly. By understanding the *transportation* landscape and proactively addressing potential obstacles, residents can successfully manage their health and enjoy the benefits of living in this charming mountain community.