27282, Jamestown, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27282, Jamestown, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.37 percent of residents in 27282 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is High Point Regional Health System with a distance of 5.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Jamestown, NC (ZIP Code 27282)

Jamestown, North Carolina, a charming town nestled in the Piedmont Triad, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, prospective residents considering a move to Jamestown, particularly those prioritizing healthcare access, must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions within and surrounding ZIP code 27282.

The health score is not a simple numerical value. It is a nuanced evaluation of the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential healthcare services, taking into account various transportation modes and their inherent limitations. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the presence of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For most Jamestown residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The town's location offers reasonably efficient access to hospitals and clinics in Greensboro, High Point, and Winston-Salem. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 85 (I-85), US-70, and US-68.

Traveling to major medical centers like Cone Health's Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via I-85 North. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute. High Point Regional Hospital, another crucial healthcare provider, is accessible via US-68 South, with a drive time of roughly 10-15 minutes. Wake Forest Baptist Health facilities in Winston-Salem are farther, requiring a 30-40 minute drive, usually via I-40 West.

The condition of these roadways and the presence of ongoing construction projects can significantly impact commute times. Accidents on I-85 or I-40 can create significant delays, potentially affecting access to emergency medical care. Residents should always factor in these variables when planning healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Developing Option**

Public transportation options in Jamestown are limited, primarily relying on the Greensboro Transit Agency (GTA). The GTA operates several bus routes that serve the surrounding areas, but direct routes within Jamestown itself are scarce. This limitation presents a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, or those who cannot afford a car.

The primary bus routes serving the area, while not directly traversing Jamestown, offer connections to healthcare facilities. Route 11 (Greensboro-High Point) provides access to High Point Regional Hospital, while transfers to other routes can connect to healthcare providers in Greensboro. The frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, adding to the overall travel time.

The GTA's commitment to accessibility is noteworthy. All GTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on transfers and the limited route coverage within Jamestown present barriers to convenient healthcare access for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services are readily available in the Piedmont Triad, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility challenges, offer a crucial service for those unable to utilize traditional transportation methods. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. Several medical transportation providers operate in the area, catering to various needs, including non-emergency medical transport and wheelchair-accessible services.

**Overall Health Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Jamestown, NC (27282) is best described as **Moderate**. While the town benefits from relatively short drive times to major healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation impact the overall score.

The score is positively influenced by the proximity to multiple healthcare providers and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation options. However, the lack of robust public transit within Jamestown, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways pose challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Jamestown, especially those with mobility limitations or who rely on public transit, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Residents should research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, as well as the feasibility of utilizing the GTA bus system.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve healthcare access for Jamestown residents, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding the GTA's route coverage within Jamestown, particularly with routes connecting to healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Promoting the utilization of ride-sharing services and offering subsidies for low-income residents could also improve access.

Furthermore, educating residents about available medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would be crucial. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as traffic management systems on I-85 and US-70, could reduce commute times and improve the reliability of transportation.

Jamestown offers a desirable quality of life, but healthcare access is a critical component of overall well-being. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and implementing targeted improvements, the town can ensure that all residents have convenient and reliable access to the healthcare services they need. The future of healthcare access in Jamestown depends on a collaborative approach involving local government, healthcare providers, and transportation agencies, all working together to create a healthier community. The town's commitment to accessibility and innovation will ultimately determine its success in providing equitable healthcare for all.