27213, Bonlee, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27213, Bonlee, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 27213 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Randolph Hospital with a distance of 22.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: 27213 (Bonlee, North Carolina)

This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 27213, focusing on the critical factor of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering **moving to Bonlee**, North Carolina, as it offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical services in this rural area.

The Overall Health Score is a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services. This score incorporates factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Bonlee, nestled in Chatham County, presents a landscape where personal vehicles are often the primary mode of **transportation**. The geographical layout necessitates reliance on roadways for healthcare access. The nearest major medical facilities are located in surrounding towns and cities, requiring travel along various routes.

For residents needing to reach Chatham Hospital in Siler City, the most direct route typically involves traveling east on NC-42. The drive time is usually around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey is generally straightforward, offering relatively smooth travel conditions. However, any delays on NC-42, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact access to urgent care.

Accessing larger hospitals and specialized care necessitates longer journeys. For example, Duke University Hospital in Durham, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive, primarily via US-64 East. This route involves navigating a busy highway, increasing the potential for delays due to congestion or accidents. Similarly, UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, another significant healthcare provider, requires a similar travel time, also primarily using US-64 East.

These extended drive times highlight a critical aspect of healthcare access in Bonlee: the need for reliable **transportation**. Residents must factor in potential travel delays when scheduling appointments or in emergency situations.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transit options in the 27213 ZIP code are limited. Chatham County does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. The absence of readily available public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

While there may be limited dial-a-ride services offered by the county, availability and accessibility can vary. These services may require advance booking and are often primarily focused on serving seniors and individuals with disabilities. The lack of a robust public transit infrastructure underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bonlee area. However, their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles, or those who are otherwise unable to drive themselves. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local and regional providers. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, adding to the overall expense of healthcare access.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The factors outlined above contribute to the Overall Health Score for the 27213 ZIP code. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare.

The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles and the extended drive times to reach medical facilities. The absence of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services further exacerbate this challenge. These factors can lead to delayed access to care, increased stress for patients, and potential difficulties in managing chronic conditions.

The presence of medical transportation services provides a crucial lifeline for some residents, particularly those with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier.

**Considerations for Moving to Bonlee:**

For individuals and families considering **moving to Bonlee**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the availability of reliable **transportation** options.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or frequent medical appointments should consider the potential impact of extended drive times and the availability of medical **transportation** services. Those without personal vehicles should investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** options.

The Overall Health Score for 27213 reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the logistical challenges of healthcare access must be carefully considered.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for 27213 is impacted by several factors. While the area benefits from its rural charm, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges to **healthcare access**. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some solutions, but cost and reliability remain significant considerations. For individuals considering **moving to Bonlee**, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential to ensure a positive and healthy quality of life. Careful planning and preparation are key to navigating the healthcare landscape in this rural setting.