27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.44 percent of residents in 27281 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Carolina Hospital with a distance of 30.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jackson Springs, NC (ZIP Code 27281)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Jackson Springs, North Carolina, ZIP code 27281, this access is primarily dictated by transportation infrastructure and available services. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the various transportation options available to residents seeking medical care, and analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of each. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Jackson Springs, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their well-being.

The score is derived from a composite of factors, including drive times to medical facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options. Each factor is weighted based on its impact on healthcare access for the average resident, considering factors like age, mobility, and socioeconomic status.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Jackson Springs is the personal vehicle. The area's rural nature means that driving is often the most direct and convenient route. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are US-1, NC-73, and NC-211. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times.

The closest major healthcare provider is FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital-Pinehurst, approximately 20 miles away, a drive that typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on US-1. This drive time is acceptable for routine appointments, but it becomes more critical in emergency situations. Other facilities, such as smaller clinics and urgent care centers, are located in nearby towns like Carthage and Southern Pines, offering shorter drive times for less critical needs.

For residents needing specialized care, the drive times can extend significantly. Larger hospitals in cities like Fayetteville or Raleigh, offering specialized services, can require journeys of one to two hours. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 27281 are limited. The Moore County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides some services, but they are primarily focused on demand-response transportation, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. This system is not designed for spontaneous trips to the doctor's office. MCTA offers ADA-compliant vehicles, but the limited service area and pre-booking requirements make it less than ideal for general healthcare access.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge, especially for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of regular bus routes to medical facilities creates a dependence on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services, increasing the cost and complexity of healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson Springs area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by FirstHealth, are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services are often reserved for those with specific medical needs or limited mobility, and they may require pre-authorization or have associated costs.

**Overall Health Score: A Nuanced Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Jackson Springs, NC (27281) is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The area's reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, creates challenges for some residents. Drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable for routine care, but can become problematic for specialized services or in emergency situations.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some relief, but their limitations in terms of availability, cost, and eligibility criteria cannot be ignored.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Jackson Springs**

For individuals considering moving to Jackson Springs, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the availability of medical transport services.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is crucial for accessing healthcare in Jackson Springs.
* **Transportation Planning:** Plan medical appointments in advance, considering potential traffic delays and the availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** Investigate the availability and eligibility requirements for medical transport services if needed.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the proximity of housing to medical facilities and the ease of access to major roadways.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as senior centers or volunteer driver programs, that may offer transportation assistance.

The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic metric, subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, service expansions, and evolving healthcare needs. Staying informed about local transportation options and healthcare resources is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being in Jackson Springs. The community's health is intrinsically linked to its transportation network, and future developments in this area will significantly impact the quality of life for its residents.