27519, Cary, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27519, Cary, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.07 percent of residents in 27519 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wakemed, Cary Hospital with a distance of 6.85 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Cary, NC (ZIP Code 27519)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Cary, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27519) requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A crucial aspect of this assessment is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, encompassing various modes of transportation. This write-up will examine the transportation landscape within and around 27519, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access and its impact on the well-being of those considering moving to Cary.

The foundation of any healthcare access analysis rests on the proximity and availability of medical facilities. Cary, a rapidly growing suburb of Raleigh, boasts a diverse range of healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized practices. However, the mere presence of these facilities doesn't guarantee easy access. Transportation infrastructure plays a pivotal role, shaping how residents interact with the healthcare system.

**Driving the Healthcare Journey:**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Navigating the roads of Cary and the surrounding areas is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can significantly impact commute times, especially during peak hours. Understanding the major arteries and their associated travel times is crucial.

Interstate 40 (I-40) serves as a major east-west corridor, providing access to healthcare facilities in both Cary and neighboring cities like Raleigh. Drive times on I-40 can fluctuate dramatically, particularly during rush hour. Commuting eastward towards Raleigh, where major hospitals like WakeMed Cary Hospital and UNC Rex Hospital are located, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic volume.

US Highway 64 (US-64) offers another critical route, running east-west through Cary. This highway provides direct access to several medical facilities and often serves as an alternative to I-40, particularly for residents in the southern parts of 27519. However, US-64 also experiences heavy traffic, especially around major intersections.

Other important roads include Cary Parkway, Kildaire Farm Road, and High House Road. These roads provide crucial links within Cary, connecting residential areas to medical offices, urgent care centers, and pharmacies. While these roads are generally less congested than I-40 or US-64, they can still experience delays during peak hours.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the overall health score. Residents closer to hospitals and clinics will naturally have better access. Those living further away, especially in areas with limited public transportation, may face significant challenges, potentially delaying or discouraging necessary medical care.

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

Cary's public transportation system, while still developing, offers an alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic. The GoCary bus system operates throughout the town, providing connections to various destinations, including healthcare facilities.

Several GoCary routes serve 27519, including routes that connect to WakeMed Cary Hospital and other medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. While the GoCary system is designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, including ADA-compliant buses, the overall coverage and frequency remain a challenge.

The GoTriangle regional bus system provides connections to Raleigh and other surrounding areas, offering access to a wider range of healthcare options. However, these routes often require transfers and can significantly increase travel times. The accessibility of GoTriangle buses is also important to consider, with ADA-compliant features ensuring access for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of public transit is a positive factor in the overall health score, especially for those who rely on it. However, the limitations of the current system, including route frequency and coverage, can hinder healthcare access for some residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Cary, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical equipment. Several medical transport brands operate in the Cary area, providing door-to-door service and ensuring patients can reach their appointments safely and comfortably.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services enhances healthcare access, particularly for those with specific needs. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals, and their reliability can be affected by factors such as driver availability and traffic conditions.

**Healthcare Access and the Decision to Move:**

For individuals considering moving to Cary (ZIP Code 27519), the accessibility of healthcare is a significant factor. The overall health score is influenced by the availability of healthcare facilities, the transportation options available, and the ease with which residents can reach medical care.

The presence of major hospitals, clinics, and specialized practices in and around Cary is a positive aspect. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation can create challenges for some residents. The increasing availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers additional options, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 27519 is a mixed bag. While Cary offers a good selection of healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure requires further development to ensure equitable access for all residents. Those moving to Cary should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services in their preferred location.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 27519 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While Cary offers a strong healthcare infrastructure, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. The ease of driving, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall picture. The future of healthcare access in Cary will depend on continued investment in transportation infrastructure and the development of innovative solutions to meet the diverse needs of its residents. The evolving transportation landscape will continue to shape the health and well-being of those who call Cary home.