27356, Star, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27356, Star, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.88 percent of residents in 27356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Montgomery Memorial Hosp with a distance of 7.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Star, NC (ZIP Code 27356)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially to a more rural area like Star, North Carolina (ZIP code 27356). This comprehensive analysis, framed as an "Overall Health Score," evaluates the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, providing a nuanced perspective for prospective residents. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for maintaining well-being in this community.

The foundation of healthcare access in Star rests on the road network. The primary artery is **US-220**, a vital north-south corridor. Depending on the specific healthcare facility, travel times can vary. For instance, a journey to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, a major regional hospital, can take approximately 45 to 60 minutes via US-220 South and **NC-211**. This drive, while manageable, requires careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.

Smaller clinics and practices in nearby towns like Asheboro or Troy might offer shorter drive times, potentially reducing the stress associated with longer commutes. However, the availability of specialized services, like cardiology or oncology, might necessitate travel to larger hospitals, extending the commute and adding to the overall burden. The condition of the roads, including secondary routes like **NC-73** and **NC-109**, also plays a role, particularly during inclement weather.

Public transportation options are limited in Star. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. While the **Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation (PART)** serves the larger region, its routes and schedules may not adequately connect Star with healthcare facilities. This lack of readily available public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicle ownership for accessing healthcare.

The absence of robust public transit disproportionately affects individuals with mobility limitations. The lack of accessible bus routes and ADA-compliant features exacerbates the challenges faced by people with disabilities. This underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services, to ensure equitable access to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a potential solution, although their availability in rural areas like Star can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, especially for frequent appointments or ongoing treatments. The reliability of these services, particularly during peak hours or in emergencies, needs to be carefully considered.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize ride-sharing. These services are particularly vital for patients requiring dialysis, chemotherapy, or other specialized treatments. The availability and responsiveness of these services directly impact the overall health score.

Several medical transport providers serve the area. However, the response times and availability of these services can vary depending on the location of the patient, the nature of the medical need, and the resources available. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant financial burden, potentially impacting access to care.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Star, NC (27356) is moderate. While the road network provides a primary means of transportation, the lack of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport pose significant challenges. The distance to major healthcare facilities and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the importance of careful planning and preparedness.

Moving to Star requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. Prospective residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, their ability to drive, and their financial resources. Those with chronic conditions or limited mobility should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and consider the potential impact on their overall well-being.

The development of a more robust public transit system, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and increased availability of affordable medical transport would significantly improve the health score for Star. These improvements would enhance healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their age, ability, or income.

The local community can also play a role in improving healthcare access. Initiatives such as community carpools, volunteer driver programs, and partnerships with healthcare providers can help bridge the transportation gap. These collaborative efforts can create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment.

When considering a move to Star, prospective residents should research the healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, including their specialties, hours of operation, and insurance acceptance. They should also familiarize themselves with the available transportation options and develop a plan for accessing healthcare. This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth transition and maintain a high quality of life.

The overall health score is not static. It can be improved through community efforts, policy changes, and technological advancements. By addressing the transportation challenges, Star can create a healthier and more vibrant community for all its residents. This proactive approach ensures that the promise of a new life in Star is not overshadowed by the complexities of healthcare access.