27047, Siloam, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27047, Siloam, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.68 percent of residents in 27047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Regional Hospital with a distance of 11.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27047 (Siloam, NC)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 27047 (Siloam, NC), focusing on the critical element of transportation to medical facilities. We will dissect the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, assessing their feasibility and impact on overall well-being. This is especially pertinent for those *moving to Siloam*, considering the ease or difficulty of reaching necessary medical care.

ZIP code 27047, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural landscape necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of alternative transportation options is limited. The overall health score will reflect these realities, providing a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape and its influence on health outcomes.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments in Siloam is the personal vehicle. The geography, while beautiful, dictates longer travel times compared to more urban environments. Reaching major medical centers requires navigating a network of highways and secondary roads.

For residents needing specialized care, a drive to Winston-Salem, approximately 50 miles away, is often necessary. This journey typically involves taking **US-601 South** to **I-77 South**, and then connecting to **US-421 South**. Depending on traffic, this drive can take anywhere from one to one and a half hours.

Closer options include facilities in Mount Airy, a roughly 15-mile drive. This route primarily utilizes **US-601 North** and can be completed in approximately 20-30 minutes. The shorter drive time to Mount Airy makes it a more practical choice for routine appointments and urgent care needs.

Travel times are significantly affected by weather conditions. Snow and ice, common during winter months, can severely impede travel, potentially delaying or even preventing access to care. This is a crucial factor in the overall health score, as it highlights the vulnerability of residents during inclement weather.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 27047 are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

Surry County, where Siloam is located, does offer a demand-response transit service, Surry County Transit. However, this service requires advance booking and may not always be readily available for immediate medical needs. Information regarding route numbers and ADA features is not readily available, suggesting a lack of robust infrastructure. The limited scope and availability of public transit contribute negatively to the overall health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability depends on driver density, which can fluctuate. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are available, offering transport for patients with mobility limitations or other specific needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to accommodate medical equipment. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than standard transportation, potentially creating a financial burden for residents.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The geographical isolation of Siloam, combined with the limited transportation options, creates potential barriers to healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for individuals with chronic conditions requiring regular medical attention. The longer travel times and potential for transportation difficulties can lead to delayed or missed appointments, negatively impacting health outcomes.

The availability of telehealth services can partially mitigate these challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a substitute for all types of medical care, and its effectiveness depends on factors such as internet access and the nature of the medical condition.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP code 27047 is considered moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create challenges.

The long drive times to major medical centers, the lack of robust public transit, and the potential for weather-related disruptions all contribute to a lower score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

The score reflects the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in Siloam. This could include exploring options to expand public transportation, promoting telehealth services, and supporting initiatives that address the transportation needs of vulnerable populations.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations can be implemented. Investing in the expansion of public transit, even if it’s a demand-response system, could significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles. Promoting telehealth services and ensuring adequate internet access is crucial, especially for those in rural areas.

Community partnerships could facilitate the development of volunteer driver programs or subsidized transportation options for low-income individuals. Educating residents about available transportation resources and advocating for policies that support healthcare access are also essential.

The overall health score is not static. It is a reflection of the current state of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. By implementing strategic improvements, the community can enhance the ability of its residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. For those *moving to Siloam*, understanding these transportation realities is critical to planning for their healthcare needs. The health of the community is directly linked to its ability to connect with healthcare.