27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.00 percent of residents in 27106 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Carolina Baptist Hospital with a distance of 4.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27106

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Winston-Salem's 27106 ZIP code, focusing on the critical factor of healthcare access through various transportation modes. Understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount to maintaining and improving the well-being of the community. This report delves into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering **moving to Winston Salem**.

The 27106 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, and its healthcare access is significantly influenced by its geographical layout and the available **transportation** infrastructure. The score reflects the combined impact of these elements on the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. A high score indicates excellent access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges that require attention and improvement.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in 27106 are Interstate 40 (I-40) and US-52. These highways provide the fastest routes to major medical centers like Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, both crucial for specialized care. Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific location within the ZIP code.

Residents in the northern parts of 27106, closer to I-40, generally enjoy shorter drive times to these hospitals. However, those residing in the southern or eastern sections may face longer commutes, particularly during peak hours. Surface streets, such as Reynolda Road, Stratford Road, and Silas Creek Parkway, offer alternative routes but are often subject to congestion, increasing travel time.

Weekday mornings and late afternoons typically experience the heaviest traffic, extending drive times by 15-30 minutes. The strategic use of navigation apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, can help drivers optimize their routes and avoid bottlenecks. Weekend travel generally offers smoother traffic flow, making healthcare access more convenient. Considering these variables is essential for residents planning medical appointments or facing emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes**

Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) provides public transit options within the city, including routes that serve the 27106 ZIP code. The network, though not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, offers a vital service for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. Key routes that serve the area include routes 1, 11, and 80, which connect to major hospitals and clinics.

However, public transit's impact on the overall health score is tempered by several factors. The frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours, can be limited, requiring longer wait times. Travel times are often significantly longer than driving due to multiple stops and potential delays. Furthermore, while WSTA strives to provide accessible services, the availability of fully accessible buses on all routes and the ease of navigating transfer points can be challenging for individuals with disabilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as ramps and designated seating, are available on WSTA buses. However, potential users should verify the accessibility of their specific route and any transfer points. Planning trips in advance and allowing ample time for travel are crucial when relying on public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options for residents of 27106. These services provide on-demand rides to medical appointments and other healthcare-related destinations. Availability and pricing can vary depending on the time of day and demand, but they generally offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit.

The rise of ride-sharing has improved healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized option.

Companies like FirstLight Home Care and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and personal care, making them a valuable resource for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 27106 reflects a mixed picture. While major hospitals are relatively accessible via highways, public transit and surface streets present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services adds to the options, but cost and accessibility remain concerns.

The score is influenced by the following factors: drive times, public transit frequency and accessibility, ride-sharing availability and cost, and the presence of medical transportation services. The score is also impacted by the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within and around the ZIP code.

For residents considering **moving to Winston Salem**, particularly those with healthcare needs, it is crucial to assess their **transportation** needs and the location of their preferred medical providers. Those who rely on public transit should carefully plan their routes and allow ample travel time. Those with mobility limitations should explore medical transportation services.

**Recommendations**

To improve the overall health score for healthcare access in 27106, several recommendations are proposed. Increasing the frequency and coverage of public transit routes, particularly during off-peak hours, would benefit many residents. Improving the accessibility of bus stops and transfer points is also essential.

Promoting and subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents could significantly enhance their access to healthcare. Expanding the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would also be beneficial. Finally, ongoing efforts to reduce traffic congestion on major roadways would improve drive times and make healthcare access more efficient for all residents.

By addressing these issues, Winston-Salem can improve the health and well-being of its residents in 27106, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care.