27248, Franklinville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27248, Franklinville, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.77 percent of residents in 27248 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Randolph Hospital with a distance of 7.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Franklinville (ZIP Code 27248)

Franklinville, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of Randolph County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, intricately linked to the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 27248, considers the multifaceted nature of healthcare access, particularly focusing on the transportation infrastructure that connects residents to vital medical services. A comprehensive understanding of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services is crucial for evaluating the overall health score of this community, especially for those considering moving to Franklinville.

The foundation of healthcare access in Franklinville lies in the ability to physically reach medical facilities. The primary mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on roadways to connect with hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Interstate 85, a major artery traversing the region, provides a crucial link to larger healthcare hubs. However, direct access from Franklinville to I-85 is limited, requiring travel on secondary roads.

Highway 22, a key thoroughfare, serves as a primary conduit, connecting Franklinville with nearby towns and cities. This route offers access to Asheboro, where Randolph Hospital, the primary medical facility serving the area, is located. The drive time to Randolph Hospital from Franklinville, via Highway 22, typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Highway 64 also provides access to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, access to more specialized care often necessitates longer journeys. Greensboro, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away via I-85, offers a wider array of medical specialists and advanced treatment options. Winston-Salem, about an hour's drive via I-85 and US-421, provides even greater access to tertiary care centers and specialized medical services. These longer drive times can present challenges for residents, particularly those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Public transportation options in Randolph County, and specifically within the 27248 ZIP code, are limited. Randolph County Transportation provides demand-response service, offering transportation to medical appointments. However, this service requires advance booking and operates within specific hours. Availability can be a concern, especially for urgent medical needs. The lack of a robust public transit system, with fixed-route buses, significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of accessible public transportation features, such as ADA-compliant buses, further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially when considering the frequent trips required for ongoing medical care. This aspect is critical when considering the overall health score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Several providers operate in the region, including non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, the availability of these services, and their coverage by insurance, can vary.

The overall health score for Franklinville, within the 27248 ZIP code, is significantly influenced by the limitations in transportation options. While the proximity to Randolph Hospital provides a baseline level of healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the constraints of limited public transit and ride-sharing options create barriers. The drive times to specialized medical facilities in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, coupled with the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transport, further contribute to these challenges.

The impact of these transportation limitations extends beyond simply accessing medical appointments. It affects the ability to attend preventative care visits, manage chronic conditions effectively, and seek timely treatment for acute illnesses. These factors directly influence the overall health and well-being of Franklinville residents.

For individuals considering moving to Franklinville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Understanding the drive times to various medical facilities, the availability of public transit or ride-sharing options, and the potential costs associated with medical transport is essential. This information will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being in this community.

Addressing the transportation challenges in Franklinville is vital for improving the overall health score. This could involve exploring options such as expanding the availability of demand-response public transit, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments, or increasing the availability of medical transportation services. Investing in these initiatives would not only improve healthcare access but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community. The success of this community hinges on the ease of transportation and the health of its residents.