27202, Altamahaw, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27202, Altamahaw, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 27202 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alamance Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27202 (Altamahaw, NC)

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the ease of accessing healthcare services from ZIP code 27202, Altamahaw, North Carolina. We consider various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access for residents, especially those considering moving to Altamahaw, and to highlight potential challenges and opportunities for improvement.

The overall health score is influenced by several factors, including drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the affordability and accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transport options for those with specific needs. We also factor in the physical infrastructure, such as road conditions and the availability of accessible features on public transit, to ensure a holistic assessment.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for many Altamahaw residents is the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the local road network, with drive times varying depending on the destination and time of day. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 85 (I-85) provide quick access to Greensboro and Durham, where numerous hospitals and specialist clinics are located. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Local roads, including NC-62, NC-87, and US-70, offer alternative routes but may be slower due to lower speed limits and potential traffic lights. Residents should factor in these variables when planning healthcare appointments. Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but seasonal weather events, such as snow or ice, can pose challenges, particularly on less-traveled roads.

For example, a drive to Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington typically takes around 15-20 minutes via NC-62. A trip to Duke University Hospital in Durham via I-85 can take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. These drive times are crucial considerations when evaluating healthcare access, especially for those with urgent medical needs.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Altamahaw are limited but present. The Burlington Transit (BT) system provides bus service within Burlington and surrounding areas. While BT does not directly serve Altamahaw, residents can potentially utilize a combination of local roads and the BT system to reach healthcare facilities. However, this often involves multiple transfers and longer travel times, which can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The BT system offers limited ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating on some buses. However, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, may be restricted, which can impact the availability of public transportation for healthcare appointments.

The lack of extensive public transportation options in Altamahaw underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for accessing healthcare. This is a critical consideration for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for Altamahaw residents. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and the time of day. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option, it may not always be the most affordable or reliable choice, particularly for longer distances or during peak hours.

Specialized medical transportation services are available for individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare providers, offer a valuable resource for individuals who cannot utilize other transportation options. However, these services may be subject to availability, cost, and prior booking requirements.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Moving to Altamahaw:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare from ZIP code 27202 is moderately impacted by the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles. While drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of readily available public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can pose challenges for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Altamahaw, it is essential to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or require frequent medical appointments should consider the availability and cost of alternative transportation options. Researching the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialist services, and the ease of accessing those services via various transportation methods is crucial.

**Overall Assessment and Recommendations:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare from ZIP code 27202 reflects a need for improved transportation options. While the existing road infrastructure provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the limitations in public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can create barriers for some residents.

To improve healthcare access, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Advocate for increased public transportation:** Explore opportunities to expand the Burlington Transit (BT) system to better serve Altamahaw, including more frequent service and expanded routes.
* **Promote ride-sharing accessibility:** Encourage the availability of ride-sharing services, especially for individuals with limited transportation options.
* **Support medical transportation services:** Ensure the availability and affordability of specialized medical transportation services for those with specific needs.
* **Promote healthcare awareness:** Educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources in the area.

By addressing these areas, Altamahaw can work towards improving the overall health score for its residents and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. This will make the area more attractive to those considering moving to Altamahaw.