27217, Burlington, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.09 percent of residents in 27217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alamance Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 27217

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Burlington, North Carolina, ZIP Code 27217, requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This evaluation delves into the complexities of transportation, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Burlington, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ease of reaching medical facilities. In 27217, the primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Interstate 85 (I-85), US Highway 70 (US-70), and North Carolina Highway 49 (NC-49). These highways and roads connect the residential areas of Burlington to the major healthcare providers in the city and surrounding areas. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, traffic congestion, and the specific location within the ZIP code.

For residents in the northern reaches of 27217, accessing Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in the area, might involve a relatively short drive, perhaps 10-15 minutes via NC-49 or US-70. Conversely, those residing in the southern or eastern parts of the ZIP code may face longer commutes, potentially exceeding 20 minutes during peak hours. The distance to other healthcare facilities, such as specialist clinics and urgent care centers, also influences the overall accessibility score.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although its availability and efficiency are crucial considerations. The City of Burlington Transit System provides bus services within the city limits. Understanding the specific routes, their frequency, and their ADA accessibility is paramount. The primary bus routes serving 27217 need to be identified, noting their stops and their proximity to major healthcare providers.

The presence of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor in evaluating the health score. Individuals with disabilities must have equal access to transportation to receive medical care. Furthermore, the frequency of bus services is vital. Infrequent routes or limited operating hours can significantly hinder healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability and cost-effectiveness in 27217 must be assessed. While ride-sharing provides a convenient alternative, particularly for those without access to public transit or personal vehicles, the cost can be a barrier for some residents. The reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, also influences the overall health score.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs who cannot use standard transportation. Companies like CareRide and other specialized medical transport providers may operate in the area. The availability of these services, their coverage area within 27217, and the types of medical conditions they accommodate are critical.

The cost of medical transport, including insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses, is another significant factor. For individuals with chronic illnesses or mobility limitations, medical transport can be essential for accessing regular medical appointments and treatments. The efficiency of these services, including the time it takes to schedule a ride and the punctuality of the transport, also contributes to the overall health score.

The proximity of pharmacies and other essential healthcare services, such as dental clinics and mental health providers, also contributes to the overall healthcare access score. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance, accessible via the available transportation options, enhances the quality of life for residents.

To calculate the overall health score, each of these factors must be weighted and analyzed. Drive times to major healthcare providers, the availability and frequency of public transit routes, the presence of ADA-accessible features, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transport services are all crucial. The proximity of pharmacies and other healthcare services also contributes to the final score.

The score should also consider the demographics of 27217. Factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the percentage of residents with disabilities are relevant. Areas with a higher concentration of vulnerable populations may require a more robust transportation infrastructure to ensure equitable healthcare access.

For someone considering moving to Burlington, understanding the healthcare access landscape is essential. A high overall health score indicates a well-connected community with multiple transportation options, making it easier for residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Conversely, a lower score may highlight challenges in accessing healthcare, potentially impacting residents' health outcomes and quality of life.

The health score should be regularly updated to reflect any changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, or demographic trends. This ensures that the assessment remains accurate and relevant, providing valuable information for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The ultimate goal is to create a community where healthcare access is not a barrier but a readily available resource. By carefully evaluating the transportation options available in 27217, the overall health score can be a valuable tool for promoting health equity and improving the well-being of all residents. The ease of transportation to healthcare facilities directly impacts the health and well-being of the residents.

The analysis must also consider the impact of traffic congestion on drive times. Peak hours on I-85, US-70, and NC-49 can significantly increase commute times, particularly for those traveling to and from healthcare appointments. Understanding the typical traffic patterns and identifying potential bottlenecks is crucial for a realistic assessment.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services should be considered. Telehealth can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation by allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. The availability of telehealth services in 27217 and the ease with which residents can access them can improve the overall health score.

The overall health score for 27217 is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It should be a catalyst for improvements in transportation infrastructure, public transit services, and healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community.