27012, Clemmons, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27012, Clemmons, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.92 percent of residents in 27012 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davie Medical Center with a distance of 3.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clemmons, NC (ZIP Code 27012)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Clemmons, North Carolina (ZIP code 27012) requires a multifaceted understanding of healthcare access, deeply intertwined with the available transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching vital medical care. The proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities are crucial determinants of community well-being, impacting everything from preventative care to emergency response.

Clemmons, a charming suburb nestled in Forsyth County, offers a blend of residential tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, the reality of healthcare access within the community hinges on the efficiency of the transportation infrastructure. The ability to get to a doctor's appointment, specialist consultation, or hospital visit shouldn't be a barrier to good health.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation for most Clemmons residents is the personal vehicle. Navigating the roads is often the most direct route to healthcare providers. The major thoroughfare, **Interstate 40 (I-40)**, serves as a vital east-west artery, connecting Clemmons to Winston-Salem and beyond. Residents can quickly access hospitals like Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center or Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, both located in Winston-Salem, via I-40.

Travel times, of course, fluctuate depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, the commute along I-40 can become congested, potentially adding significant time to the journey. However, generally, a trip to a major medical facility in Winston-Salem is achievable within a reasonable timeframe, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic.

Beyond I-40, **US-421** provides another key route, offering a more direct path to some medical offices and facilities located closer to Clemmons. This road also provides access to local businesses and amenities. **Lewisville-Clemmons Road** and **Harper Road** are essential for navigating within Clemmons itself, connecting residents to local primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Clemmons are relatively limited. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency may not be ideal for all healthcare needs. Residents should research specific routes and schedules to see if they align with their medical appointments.

The WSTA operates routes that traverse Clemmons, with some lines offering connections to Winston-Salem. However, the frequency of these routes can be a challenge, potentially requiring long wait times or necessitating transfers. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. The WSTA strives to ensure accessibility, but riders should confirm the availability of accessible features on specific routes before relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another avenue for transportation, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for reaching healthcare facilities. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals with specific medical needs or mobility challenges, medical transport services offer specialized solutions. Companies like **MedTrans Corporation** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often pre-booked and cater to individuals requiring assistance with getting to and from medical appointments. They are particularly valuable for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for Clemmons residents is a reflection of their ability to access healthcare services. While the proximity to Winston-Salem offers access to a range of medical facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the overall picture.

**Moving to Clemmons: A Consideration for Health**

For individuals or families considering moving to Clemmons, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the community offers a desirable quality of life, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs, evaluate the available transportation options, and determine if they align with their individual circumstances.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Accessibility**

The overall health score for Clemmons, NC, is influenced by the interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While the community benefits from its proximity to Winston-Salem's medical facilities, improvements in public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of medical transport services could further enhance healthcare accessibility for all residents. Prioritizing these improvements would not only contribute to the well-being of the community but also make Clemmons an even more attractive place to live and thrive.