28748, Leicester, North Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 28748, Leicester, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.70 percent of residents in 28748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Mission Hospital And Asheville Surgery Ce with a distance of 10.77 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28748 (Leicester, North Carolina)**

Nestled in the verdant embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Leicester, North Carolina, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. This analysis, the Hypertension Score, evaluates the ease of reaching essential medical services within and around ZIP code 28748, focusing on transportation options and their implications for individuals with hypertension. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share accessibility, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this picturesque community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities promptly. For Leicester residents, this often means navigating the winding roads that characterize the region. The primary route for accessing healthcare in Asheville, the nearest city with comprehensive medical services, is generally via Leicester Highway (Highway 19/23). The drive to Mission Hospital, a major medical center, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, the drive can be longer during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Other healthcare options, like urgent care facilities or specialist clinics, may be more accessible. Accessing these facilities might involve traveling on secondary roads like New Leicester Highway or Weaverville Road, which can add to the overall commute time. The Hypertension Score considers these variations, recognizing that a quick trip to a pharmacy for medication refills is just as vital as a visit to a cardiologist.

Public transportation, a crucial element of healthcare access, presents a limited landscape in Leicester. The Asheville Transit System (ATS) provides some service, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all areas of the ZIP code. Route S3, for instance, might be an option, but its schedule and stops would need careful evaluation to determine its suitability for medical appointments. Individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent medical attention, would find this challenging.

The ATS buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, which is a crucial consideration for those with mobility issues. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still pose significant barriers. The Hypertension Score acknowledges the importance of ADA compliance but also recognizes the limitations of the current public transit infrastructure in Leicester.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. While these services are available in the Asheville area, their reliability and cost can vary, especially in less populated areas like Leicester. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could significantly impact the affordability of accessing healthcare.

The Hypertension Score considers the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services, understanding that individuals with hypertension may need to schedule frequent medical appointments or require immediate transportation in case of a health emergency. The score weighs the convenience of ride-sharing against potential financial burdens and the uncertainty of availability.

Medical transport services offer a specialized option for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare providers, can transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering a higher level of care and support. However, these services typically come at a higher cost and may require pre-booking, making them less suitable for urgent situations.

The Hypertension Score evaluates the availability and accessibility of medical transport services, recognizing their importance for individuals with severe health conditions or mobility limitations. The score considers the cost, scheduling requirements, and geographic coverage of these services, providing a comprehensive assessment of their suitability for residents of Leicester.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP code 28748 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score considers the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options.

The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that can change based on factors such as traffic conditions, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing services. The score also considers the specific needs of individuals with hypertension, such as the frequency of medical appointments, the need for medication refills, and the potential for health emergencies.

For individuals considering moving to Leicester, the Hypertension Score provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of accessing healthcare. The score highlights the importance of planning transportation options, considering the potential for unexpected delays, and exploring alternative solutions to ensure timely access to medical services.

The Hypertension Score also underscores the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access in Leicester. This could include advocating for increased public transit service, promoting ride-sharing programs, or supporting the development of telehealth services.

Ultimately, the Hypertension Score is a tool designed to empower individuals with hypertension to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By understanding the transportation landscape in Leicester, residents can better navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate medical care they deserve. The score serves as a catalyst for discussions about healthcare access, encouraging community members, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work together to create a healthier environment for everyone.