28666, Icard, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28666, Icard, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 28666 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blue Ridge Healthcare Hospitals, Inc with a distance of 10.97 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 28666

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. In ZIP Code 28666, encompassing the town of Icard, North Carolina, the prevalence of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern. This write-up explores the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension within this specific geographic area, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on the challenges and opportunities presented.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the barriers to timely and consistent medical care. For residents of Icard, a significant hurdle is transportation. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, can create a complex web for those needing regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialized treatments related to hypertension. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty with which individuals can navigate this web.

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Icard are Interstate 40 (I-40) and US Highway 64. I-40 provides a crucial east-west link, connecting Icard to larger population centers where specialized medical facilities are often located. US 64 runs east-west and provides access to other towns and cities in the region. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. Drive times to healthcare facilities, especially those outside of Icard, can be substantial, impacting the Hypertension Score.

For instance, a routine appointment at a primary care physician in Morganton, approximately 15 miles away, could take 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. A visit to a cardiologist or endocrinologist, potentially located in Hickory, about 25 miles away, could stretch to 40-50 minutes, especially during peak hours. These travel times, while seemingly manageable, can become obstacles for individuals with hypertension, who often require frequent monitoring and medication adjustments.

Public transportation options in 28666 are limited. The Catawba County Transportation System (CCTS) provides some services, but the frequency and coverage are restricted. The routes are designed to serve the greater Catawba County area, and their availability in Icard might be limited. Riders should be aware of the ADA accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, on CCTS vehicles. The CCTS schedule and route information would need to be meticulously reviewed to determine its utility for hypertension patients.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions, is a concern. For individuals on a fixed income or those without access to a smartphone, ride-sharing might not be a feasible option.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with limited mobility or other health challenges. Companies like FirstMed Transportation and CareRide are available in the region. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required. The Hypertension Score would factor in the availability and affordability of these options.

The impact of transportation challenges extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It can affect medication adherence, dietary choices, and overall lifestyle management. For instance, the lack of convenient access to grocery stores with healthy food options can hinder dietary changes. The stress of navigating transportation can exacerbate hypertension symptoms. The Hypertension Score must consider these indirect consequences.

The "Hypertension Score" for 28666 would be a composite metric, considering several factors. The first would be the average drive time to the nearest primary care physician, cardiologist, and pharmacy. Second, the availability and frequency of public transportation would be assessed. Third, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services would be evaluated. Finally, the score would factor in the availability of resources that support healthy lifestyle choices, such as access to grocery stores with healthy food options and community wellness programs.

A low score would indicate significant barriers to healthcare access, while a high score would reflect a more favorable environment. The goal of the score is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension in Icard. This score can be used to advocate for improvements in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community resources.

For those considering moving to Icard, the Hypertension Score is a crucial factor to consider. It is essential to assess the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The score can help potential residents make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

To improve the Hypertension Score in 28666, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding the CCTS routes and frequency, particularly in areas with high concentrations of residents with hypertension, is a crucial step. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could also be beneficial. Investing in telehealth infrastructure and promoting remote monitoring programs can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Icard requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers, local government, transportation agencies, and community organizations must work together to address the transportation challenges and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to manage their hypertension effectively. The Hypertension Score serves as a tool to monitor progress and guide these efforts, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.