27107, Winston Salem, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27107, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.49 percent of residents in 27107 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Carolina Baptist Hospital with a distance of 6.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27107

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its accessibility to healthcare. In the heart of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, ZIP code 27107 presents a complex tapestry of transportation options, each influencing residents' ability to access vital medical services. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, offering an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare facilities within and around this specific area. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Winston-Salem, prioritizing their health and well-being.

The primary arteries of transportation in 27107 are crucial to this evaluation. US-52, a major north-south highway, slices through the eastern edge of the zip code, offering relatively swift access to healthcare facilities located along its corridor. Interstate 40, another vital route, borders the southern reaches, providing connections to regional medical centers. However, the reliance on these major highways introduces potential challenges, particularly during peak traffic hours. Congestion, accidents, and inclement weather can significantly extend drive times, impacting the timely arrival at medical appointments.

The local road network, including significant thoroughfares like North Liberty Street, West 4th Street, and Reynolda Road, further complicates the picture. These roads, while offering access to neighborhood clinics and practices, are often subject to stop-and-go traffic, especially near commercial districts and educational institutions. The density of these areas can lead to increased travel times, particularly for those needing immediate medical attention. This is a critical consideration when evaluating healthcare access.

Public transportation, while present, presents a mixed bag of opportunities and limitations. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) operates several bus routes that serve the 27107 area. Route 11, for example, traverses key areas, connecting residents to medical facilities along its path. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, may not be sufficient for all healthcare needs. Furthermore, the WSTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. But the overall coverage and efficiency of public transportation remain a factor in the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in Winston-Salem. These platforms offer a convenient, on-demand transportation alternative, particularly beneficial for those without personal vehicles or those seeking door-to-door service. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited financial resources. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with specific needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical transportation, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs that can further impact the overall health score.

Considering these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 27107 reflects a complex interplay of advantages and disadvantages. The presence of major highways like US-52 and I-40 facilitates access to regional medical centers, but the potential for traffic congestion introduces uncertainty. The local road network offers access to neighborhood clinics, but stop-and-go traffic can extend travel times. Public transportation provides a cost-effective option, but its frequency and coverage may not meet all needs. Ride-sharing services offer convenience, but at a potentially higher cost. Medical transportation services provide specialized support, but require pre-planning and incur additional expenses.

The accessibility of healthcare in 27107 is further influenced by the location of medical facilities. Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is located just outside the zip code, accessible via US-52 and I-40. Wake Forest Baptist Health, another prominent healthcare provider, has several facilities within reasonable driving distances. The proximity of these major medical centers is a significant advantage for residents. However, the concentration of healthcare facilities in certain areas can lead to increased traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

The availability of urgent care centers and walk-in clinics within the zip code and surrounding areas also contributes to the overall health score. These facilities offer convenient access to medical care for less serious conditions, reducing the need for trips to emergency rooms. The presence of these facilities improves the overall health score by providing readily available healthcare options.

The demographics of the 27107 population play a crucial role. Factors such as age, income, and disability rates influence the specific transportation needs of the residents. For example, elderly residents may rely more heavily on public transportation or medical transportation services. Low-income residents may face financial barriers to accessing ride-sharing services. The presence of a significant population with disabilities necessitates accessible transportation options.

The overall health score is not a static metric. It is subject to change based on improvements in transportation infrastructure, expansion of public transportation services, and the availability of new healthcare facilities. The ongoing development of transportation solutions, such as the potential expansion of bus routes or the implementation of new ride-sharing programs, could positively impact the overall health score.

The healthcare access challenges in 27107 are not insurmountable. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Planning ahead, utilizing available resources, and advocating for improved transportation options are crucial steps toward ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need.

**Overall Health Score:** Moderate. While major highways provide access to regional medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services create challenges. The availability of medical transportation services and urgent care centers helps to mitigate some of these challenges, but the overall score reflects a need for ongoing improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access. This is an important consideration for anyone moving to Winston-Salem, particularly those with specific healthcare needs or mobility limitations.