27209, Biscoe, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27209, Biscoe, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.62 percent of residents in 27209 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Randolph Hospital with a distance of 24.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27209

Considering a move to Biscoe, North Carolina, ZIP code 27209? Assessing the accessibility of healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and available services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access within this community.

The health score considers several factors, including the availability of medical facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the presence of resources for individuals with disabilities. This assessment aims to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access, enabling informed decisions about relocating to Biscoe.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in 27209 is personal vehicles. The ease of navigating roadways significantly impacts healthcare access. Residents rely on several key routes.

Traveling north on **US-220** provides access to healthcare facilities in Asheboro, approximately a 30-45 minute drive. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially delaying medical appointments. Heading south on **US-220** leads to Rockingham, offering additional healthcare options, again, a 30-45 minute drive.

Local roads, such as **NC-211** and **NC-24/27**, serve as crucial connectors within the community and to surrounding towns. These roads, however, are primarily two-lane highways, which can increase travel times, especially in adverse weather conditions. Emergency services, such as ambulances, depend on these roadways, making their condition and accessibility vital.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 27209 are limited. This significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.

The lack of a comprehensive public transit system presents a major challenge. While there may be limited demand-response services, they are unlikely to be readily available for unscheduled medical appointments. The absence of a reliable public transportation system restricts healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in 27209, but their presence is not guaranteed, and availability can be inconsistent. This variability can make scheduling medical appointments challenging.

Medical transport services are another option. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including **Care Ride** and **First Choice Medical Transportation**. While these services offer a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and can be costly.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and healthcare facilities. However, the limited public transit options in 27209 raise concerns about ADA compliance. Individuals with disabilities may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare without readily available, accessible transportation.

Healthcare facilities themselves must adhere to ADA guidelines, ensuring accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized transport highlights the importance of ensuring that all modes of transportation are accessible for individuals with disabilities.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services**

The availability of healthcare facilities within and around 27209 directly impacts the "Overall Health Score." The closest hospital is **FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital-Richmond**, located in Rockingham. Other options include **FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital** in Pinehurst, and **Randolph Hospital** in Asheboro.

These facilities offer a range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, emergency care, and surgical procedures. The distance and travel time to these facilities are crucial factors in evaluating healthcare access.

**Impact on Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 27209 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation is a significant factor, making healthcare access easier for those with cars. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services pose challenges.

The availability of healthcare facilities in nearby towns mitigates some of these challenges. However, the travel times to these facilities can still be considerable, particularly for urgent medical needs.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 27209 requires a multi-faceted approach.

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Investing in a more robust public transportation system, including fixed-route buses or demand-response services, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and potentially subsidizing rides for low-income residents could improve access.
* **Expand Medical Transport Services:** Increasing the availability and affordability of medical transport services would be beneficial.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintaining and improving roadways, particularly those leading to healthcare facilities, would reduce travel times and improve safety.
* **Community Outreach:** Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is crucial.

**Conclusion: Moving to Biscoe**

Choosing to move to Biscoe, NC, requires a thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape. While the area offers adequate healthcare facilities, the limitations in transportation options impact access. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about relocating to 27209 and ensure their well-being. The "Overall Health Score" provides a realistic assessment, allowing potential residents to evaluate the healthcare accessibility and make informed decisions about their health and future in Biscoe.