27048, Stoneville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27048, Stoneville, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.96 percent of residents in 27048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Rockingham with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Stoneville, NC (ZIP Code 27048)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Stoneville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27048) necessitates a deep dive into the crucial component of healthcare access. This analysis will meticulously examine the available transportation options, weighing their efficacy and accessibility in relation to medical facilities. The ease with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and other vital healthcare services directly impacts their well-being. This is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Stoneville, as understanding the logistical challenges of healthcare access is paramount.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Stoneville lies in the availability of reliable transportation. The primary mode of travel for most residents will undoubtedly be the automobile. Stoneville is a relatively rural area, and the geography necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most errands, including medical appointments. The primary roadways serving the area are US-220, a major north-south artery, and NC-704, which provides east-west connectivity. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can influence travel times.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. The nearest hospital, UNC Rockingham Health Care in Eden, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US-220 South. This time frame is generally acceptable, but it can be affected by traffic, weather, and unforeseen circumstances. For specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger cities like Greensboro or Winston-Salem, which can extend drive times to an hour or more. The convenience of readily available healthcare is a critical aspect of the overall health score.

Public transportation options in Stoneville are limited. The primary provider is the Rockingham County Transit System. While the system offers routes, their frequency and coverage are restricted, particularly in rural areas. Schedules are often limited, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, and this feature is generally present in the Rockingham County Transit System. However, the overall impact of public transit on healthcare access is relatively low due to its limited scope.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Stoneville, though their presence is not as widespread as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be costly and unpredictable, potentially creating barriers to healthcare access for some residents. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services are therefore critical considerations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, offer an alternative. Companies like First Medical Transportation and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility requirements. While valuable for those who qualify, these services may not be readily available or affordable for all residents, especially those requiring immediate or unscheduled medical attention.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Stoneville, NC (27048) is moderate. While the presence of US-220 and NC-704 provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities by car, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the constraints of medical transportation services present challenges. These transportation limitations can negatively impact the ability of residents to receive timely and convenient medical care.

The absence of robust public transportation options is a significant drawback. This lack of alternatives disproportionately affects individuals who do not own vehicles, those with disabilities, and the elderly. The reliance on personal vehicles can also be a burden for those with limited financial resources, as it involves costs associated with fuel, maintenance, and insurance.

The distance to specialized medical facilities in larger cities like Greensboro or Winston-Salem further compounds the transportation challenges. The extended travel times can be particularly problematic for individuals requiring specialized care or frequent follow-up appointments. This geographical reality highlights the importance of considering the transportation infrastructure when evaluating the overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Stoneville, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. The ability to easily access healthcare services is a fundamental aspect of a healthy lifestyle, and it should be a primary consideration when choosing a place to live.

The overall health score reflects the complex interplay of various factors. The drive times, the public transportation, the ride-sharing services, and the medical transportation services all contribute to the ease or difficulty with which residents can access healthcare. The availability and affordability of these transportation options directly influence the health and well-being of the Stoneville community.

Furthermore, the availability of healthcare providers within the community itself is a factor. The presence of local clinics and primary care physicians can reduce the need for extensive travel. Access to pharmacies and other essential healthcare services within Stoneville also improves the overall health score.

Ultimately, improving the overall health score for Stoneville requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transportation programs can enhance healthcare access for all residents. Simultaneously, encouraging the establishment of more healthcare providers within the community will further improve the overall health score, making Stoneville a healthier place to live.