28682, Terrell, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28682, Terrell, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.40 percent of residents in 28682 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake Norman Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Terrell, NC (ZIP Code 28682)

Terrell, North Carolina, a serene community nestled along the shores of Lake Norman, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 28682, aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" by evaluating transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and those contemplating moving to Terrell, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The prevalence of hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, underscores the importance of readily available healthcare. Regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments are vital for controlling this condition. The ability to easily access healthcare facilities directly impacts a patient's ability to adhere to these critical regimens.

### The Road Ahead: Automobile Transportation

The primary mode of transportation in Terrell is undoubtedly the automobile. The town's relatively low population density and limited public transit infrastructure make personal vehicles essential for navigating to healthcare appointments. The most direct route to healthcare facilities typically involves utilizing major roadways.

Traveling east on **NC-150** offers access to medical services in Mooresville, a drive that can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but rush hour congestion can significantly extend travel times. Heading south on **NC-150** and then merging onto **I-77** provides access to healthcare in Charlotte, a longer journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination and traffic. This interstate corridor, while efficient, is prone to heavy congestion during peak hours.

For those seeking healthcare in Denver, a westward journey on **NC-150** is the most direct route. This drive typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, offering a closer option for certain medical needs. The roads are generally less congested than those leading to Mooresville or Charlotte, but traffic can still be a factor during school drop-off and pick-up times.

The reliability of automobile transportation hinges on factors beyond just distance. Vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and the driver's physical condition all play a role. For individuals managing hypertension, the stress of navigating traffic and the potential for delays can exacerbate their condition. Therefore, the convenience and efficiency of automobile travel must be weighed against these potential drawbacks.

### Public Transit: Limited Options

Public transportation options in Terrell are extremely limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The local Iredell County Area Transportation System (ICATS) offers some services, but these are primarily demand-response, meaning they require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The service area is also geographically limited.

ICATS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for advance scheduling can make it challenging to rely on public transit for regular healthcare appointments, especially for those requiring frequent monitoring or treatment.

The nearest major public transit hub is in Charlotte, offering a more extensive network of bus routes and the LYNX Blue Line light rail. However, accessing these services from Terrell requires a significant commute, often involving a combination of automobile travel and potentially multiple transfers. This can be time-consuming and stressful, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Terrell can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can significantly increase costs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require advance booking and may be subject to insurance coverage limitations.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation can add to the overall cost of healthcare, potentially impacting a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan. The availability of these services is also subject to factors beyond the patient's control, such as driver availability and weather conditions.

### Evaluating the Hypertension Score

The "Hypertension Score" for Terrell, NC (28682) reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score considers the following elements:

* **Automobile Accessibility:** The ease of navigating to healthcare facilities via major roadways (NC-150, I-77) and the potential impact of traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The limitations of ICATS and the challenges of accessing public transit in Charlotte.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these alternative transportation options.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for Terrell, NC (28682) would likely be moderate. While the availability of automobile transportation provides a relatively convenient means of travel, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation create challenges for some residents.

### Implications for Moving to Terrell

For individuals considering moving to Terrell, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Those with hypertension should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare facilities and factor in the potential costs and time commitments associated with transportation. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the ability to manage the stress of travel are all critical considerations.

Moving to Terrell offers the appeal of a tranquil lifestyle, but it is essential to balance this with the realities of healthcare access. A proactive approach, including researching healthcare providers, exploring transportation options, and developing a plan for managing medical appointments, is essential for ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health.

In conclusion, while Terrell offers a desirable living environment, individuals with hypertension must carefully evaluate the transportation options available to them. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for careful planning and resourcefulness to ensure timely and accessible healthcare, enabling residents to effectively manage their condition and enjoy a healthy life in this lakeside community.