27344, Siler City, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27344, Siler City, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.65 percent of residents in 27344 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chatham Hospital Inc with a distance of 1.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Siler City (ZIP Code 27344)

This assessment provides an overall health score for healthcare access within ZIP code 27344 (Siler City, North Carolina), focusing on transportation options. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options. The goal is to inform individuals considering **moving to Siler City** about the ease or difficulty of reaching necessary healthcare services. This analysis is crucial because reliable **transportation** is a cornerstone of good health, directly impacting an individual's ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The overall health score is a composite measure, factoring in accessibility, affordability, and reliability of transportation options. Each element is weighted based on its impact on healthcare access. Factors such as the availability of public transportation with ADA compliance, the presence of ride-share options, and the proximity of healthcare facilities all contribute to the final score. The higher the score, the better the healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

Siler City's location in central North Carolina means residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US-64, US-421, and NC-150. Drive times to healthcare facilities are highly variable depending on the destination and time of day.

For routine appointments, the drive to the closest primary care physicians within Siler City is typically manageable, often taking less than 15 minutes. However, specialized care or hospital visits may require travel outside of the immediate area.

For instance, a trip to UNC Health Chatham Hospital in nearby Siler City, a critical access hospital, could take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic along US-64. Traveling to larger medical centers in Greensboro or Durham, such as Cone Health or Duke University Hospital, can involve a commute of 45 minutes to an hour and a half, primarily using US-64 and US-421, which can experience congestion during peak hours.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. US-64 is a major east-west thoroughfare, and its condition is generally good. US-421 is a key north-south route, and its maintenance is also typically adequate. However, unexpected road closures or construction can significantly impact travel times, particularly for those with urgent medical needs.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Siler City are limited. The Chatham County Transit (CCT) provides some service within the county, but the routes and schedules are not designed to specifically cater to healthcare access. CCT does offer routes that serve some key areas in Siler City, but its frequency and coverage are limited, particularly for those needing to reach facilities outside of the immediate town.

The CCT system is designed with ADA compliance in mind, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and infrequent schedules pose a challenge for those relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

The lack of extensive public transportation significantly impacts the overall health score. While the CCT provides a baseline level of service, it is insufficient to meet the needs of many residents, especially those without access to a personal vehicle or those who cannot drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Siler City, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments or longer distances to healthcare facilities. The reliability of ride-sharing can be another concern, as wait times can vary, and drivers may not always be readily available.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services, such as FirstMed and others, are designed to provide specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. They often offer door-to-door service and may include assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle.

While medical transport services offer a valuable resource, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Siler City is moderately impacted by transportation factors. While the town offers local healthcare options, access to specialized care and larger medical centers requires travel. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents.

The reliance on personal vehicles emphasizes the importance of car ownership and the ability to drive. For those without these resources, healthcare access can be significantly compromised. The cost and availability of medical transport services are crucial for those with mobility limitations.

The proximity of UNC Health Chatham Hospital is a positive factor, providing emergency and basic medical care within a reasonable distance. However, the need to travel to larger medical centers in Greensboro or Durham for specialized care adds complexity to the healthcare access equation.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Siler City is influenced by a combination of factors. The presence of local healthcare facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the proximity of UNC Health Chatham Hospital are positive aspects. However, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care centers are areas of concern.

The score is moderate, reflecting the mixed landscape of healthcare access in the area. Individuals considering **moving to Siler City** should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to a vehicle. Those who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing should be aware of the limitations and potential challenges.

The availability and affordability of medical transport services are essential for those with mobility limitations. Understanding these factors is critical for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of residents. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is inextricably linked to the ability to receive timely and appropriate **healthcare**. This makes **healthcare access** a key consideration for anyone **moving to Siler City**.