27320, Reidsville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27320, Reidsville, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.14 percent of residents in 27320 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Rockingham with a distance of 10.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27320 (Reidsville, NC)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In Reidsville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27320), this access is profoundly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture for prospective residents considering moving to Reidsville. This analysis aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access within the context of local transportation infrastructure.

The primary consideration is the accessibility of medical facilities. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and emergency services. Factors such as drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transport options are all weighed.

**Driving Times and Road Network:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Reidsville is the automobile. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the time it takes to reach medical facilities. The primary arteries are US-29, a major north-south highway, and NC-14, which provides east-west connectivity. These routes are critical for accessing larger hospitals and specialist clinics.

Driving to the primary healthcare provider, UNC Rockingham Health Care, located at 1200 North Elm Street, is relatively straightforward. From most residential areas within 27320, the drive is typically under 15 minutes. Using US-29 is the fastest route, allowing for efficient travel. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend these commute times.

Specialist care often necessitates travel outside of Reidsville. The drive to Cone Health in Greensboro, for instance, can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the exact location within 27320 and the traffic conditions on US-29 and I-40. Similarly, access to Duke Health facilities in Durham requires a commute of approximately one hour, primarily via US-29 and I-85. These longer commutes highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential impact on a resident’s overall health.

The condition of secondary roads, such as Freeway Drive and Scales Street, also influences healthcare access. These roads serve as vital connectors to US-29 and NC-14. Their condition and the presence of traffic signals can affect travel times, especially for residents in more remote areas of the ZIP code.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Reidsville, while present, presents limitations. The Rockingham County Transportation Authority (RCTA) provides bus services within the county. However, the routes and schedules are limited, and they may not directly serve all residential areas within 27320, especially those in more rural locations.

The RCTA's routes primarily focus on providing transportation to employment centers, shopping areas, and social service agencies. The routes are not designed to prioritize access to healthcare facilities. Therefore, relying solely on public transit for medical appointments can be challenging.

The RCTA does offer ADA-accessible services, including lift-equipped buses, to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times can still pose significant barriers to healthcare access for those who depend on public transit.

The lack of extensive public transportation options underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for residents of 27320 seeking healthcare. For those considering moving to Reidsville, assessing the availability of reliable transportation is crucial.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a supplemental transportation option. However, their availability in Reidsville can be variable. While these services are generally accessible, the response times and the cost of rides can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day.

Ride-sharing can be a viable option for accessing healthcare, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available. These services are designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs to and from medical appointments. Companies such as First Transit and American Medical Response (AMR) provide medical transport services in the area.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized and often more reliable option for individuals who require assistance. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. The availability of these services can be a critical factor in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 27320 is moderately positive. While the proximity of UNC Rockingham Health Care offers convenient access to primary care, the reliance on private vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges.

The drive times to specialist care facilities in Greensboro and Durham can be significant, potentially impacting appointment adherence and overall health outcomes. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Reidsville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and accessibility of alternative transportation options.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static. It can be influenced by factors such as the expansion of public transit services, the increased availability of ride-sharing, and the development of new healthcare facilities within the community.

**Conclusion:**

Healthcare access in 27320 is a complex interplay of transportation infrastructure, service availability, and individual needs. While the presence of a local hospital and the availability of alternative transportation options are positive factors, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs when evaluating the "Overall Health Score" and making decisions about moving to Reidsville. The ability to efficiently and reliably access healthcare is a cornerstone of a healthy community, and understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring a positive health outcome.