27406, Greensboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27406, Greensboro, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.58 percent of residents in 27406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Moses Cone Physician Services, Inc with a distance of 5.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27406

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when assessing the overall health of a community. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of Greensboro, North Carolina, specifically within the 27406 ZIP code, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare transportation. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This information is particularly valuable for individuals and families considering moving to Greensboro, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The 27406 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area of Greensboro, and its healthcare accessibility is influenced by the local transportation infrastructure. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 40 (I-40), Interstate 85 (I-85), and US Highway 29 (US-29), all of which intersect or border the area. These highways facilitate relatively quick access to major medical facilities, particularly those located along the I-40 corridor. However, the speed and efficiency of these routes can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic volume, especially during peak hours.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary. Cone Health's flagship hospital, The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, is a central point of access, often reachable within 10-20 minutes from most locations within 27406, barring heavy traffic. Other hospitals, like Wesley Long Hospital, are also readily accessible. Smaller clinics and urgent care centers are scattered throughout the area, potentially offering shorter drive times for routine medical needs. The presence of these diverse healthcare options contributes positively to the overall health score.

Public transportation, provided by Greensboro Transit Agency (GTA), offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the 27406 area, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, and 15. While these routes provide a crucial service, the frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Additionally, travel times on public transit are generally longer than driving, often requiring transfers, which can be a significant inconvenience for individuals with mobility issues or urgent medical needs.

GTA strives to provide accessible transportation. All GTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents. However, the geographic coverage of the bus routes may not reach every corner of the 27406 ZIP code, potentially leaving some residents with limited public transit options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services are readily available in Greensboro, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing is a significant advantage, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The availability of these services does improve the overall health score.

Medical transport services are essential for individuals who require specialized assistance. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments and other medical needs. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility impairments or those who require assistance with medical equipment. The availability of these specialized services contributes significantly to the overall health score, especially for vulnerable populations.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in 27406 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of major highways like I-40 and I-85 facilitates relatively quick access to major hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles can create challenges for those without transportation. Public transit, while offering an alternative, is limited by route frequency and travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable options, but their affordability and availability can vary.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities also plays a crucial role. The concentration of hospitals and clinics along major transportation corridors enhances access for many residents. However, individuals living in more remote areas of the 27406 ZIP code may face longer travel times, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation. This disparity in access can negatively impact the overall health score.

The socioeconomic factors within the 27406 ZIP code also influence healthcare access. Individuals with lower incomes may face challenges in affording ride-sharing services or medical transportation. Limited access to personal vehicles can also disproportionately affect these populations. Addressing these socioeconomic disparities is crucial for improving the overall health score and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents.

To further enhance the "Overall Health Score," several improvements could be implemented. Expanding the GTA bus route network and increasing service frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, would improve access for those reliant on public transit. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents could reduce transportation costs. Further, promoting awareness of medical transport options and ensuring their affordability would be beneficial.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 27406 reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from the presence of major highways, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, challenges remain. The limitations of public transit, socioeconomic disparities, and the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities all impact the overall score. For those moving to Greensboro, understanding these factors is critical for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access programs can lead to a healthier and more equitable community.