27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.73 percent of residents in 27524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 26.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27524

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access vital resources, and chief among these is healthcare. For residents of Four Oaks, North Carolina, residing in ZIP code 27524, the ease and efficiency with which they can reach medical facilities significantly impacts their overall well-being. This write-up delves into the multifaceted landscape of healthcare accessibility, assessing the commute options, and ultimately providing an “Overall Health Score” for this critical aspect of life in Four Oaks.

The journey to healthcare begins with understanding the geographical realities. Four Oaks is a charming, growing town nestled in Johnston County, a region that, while experiencing growth, still presents challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary determinant of accessibility here is **transportation**. The availability of reliable, efficient, and affordable means of getting to a doctor's appointment, a specialist's office, or a hospital is paramount.

For those who prefer the independence of personal vehicles, the primary arteries for navigating the area are **Interstate 95** and **US Highway 70**. These thoroughfares are vital, yet their efficacy is determined by traffic patterns, especially during peak commuting hours. From Four Oaks, a trip to the major medical centers in Raleigh, the state capital, typically involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This drive would likely utilize I-95 North to US-70 East, or potentially, US-70 West to I-95 South. Local roads, such as **NC Highway 96** and **Brogden Road**, offer alternative routes, though they are slower and may encounter more stop-and-go traffic.

The drive-time to local urgent care facilities and smaller clinics within Johnston County is generally shorter, often ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Raleigh or surrounding areas. This extended commute time can be a significant barrier for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in this area are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. Johnston County does offer a public transit system, but it is primarily designed for demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This system, while offering a lifeline for some, may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments. The routes are not numerous, and frequency is often limited. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, while adhering to ADA standards, still requires advance planning and may involve longer travel times. The lack of robust public transit significantly diminishes the "Overall Health Score" for residents who rely on it.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another avenue for transportation. Their availability in Four Oaks is generally reliable, though surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as during severe weather events, can make them expensive. For individuals with fixed incomes or limited financial resources, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive, making it difficult to access necessary healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation Services** and **LogistiCare** often contract with healthcare providers or insurance companies to provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically cater to individuals with disabilities, those who cannot drive, or those who require assistance with mobility. However, availability and eligibility for these services depend on insurance coverage and specific medical needs, and they may require advance booking.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in ZIP code 27524 is influenced by several factors. The availability of personal vehicles is a significant advantage for many residents, allowing them to reach a variety of medical facilities within a reasonable timeframe. However, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a disparity for those without access to them. The limited public transportation options, while offering a lifeline for some, are insufficient to meet the needs of the entire community. The reliance on ride-sharing services, while available, can be cost-prohibitive for some residents.

The geographical location of Four Oaks, while offering a small-town charm, also presents challenges. The distance to major medical centers in Raleigh and surrounding areas necessitates longer commute times, which can be a barrier to accessing specialized care. This is especially true for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Four Oaks, ZIP code 27524, is therefore, moderately positive. While the availability of personal vehicles and ride-sharing services provides options for many residents, the limitations of public transportation and the distance to specialized medical facilities create challenges for others. This score could be improved by expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of medical transportation services, and encouraging the development of more healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity.

For those **moving to Four Oaks**, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is crucial. While the town offers a welcoming community and a slower pace of life, prospective residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and their ability to access medical services. Researching the availability of transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, is essential. Identifying the location of local clinics, urgent care facilities, and hospitals, and assessing the commute times to these facilities, is equally important.

Furthermore, prospective residents should consider their insurance coverage and whether it adequately covers transportation costs and access to specialized medical care. Understanding the local healthcare landscape will empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring they can thrive in their new home.

The “Overall Health Score” reflects the complex interplay of factors that determine healthcare access. While the community offers certain advantages, it also presents challenges that must be addressed to ensure that all residents can receive the care they need. Continuous efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, expand healthcare services, and support vulnerable populations will be essential to elevate the “Overall Health Score” and enhance the well-being of the residents of Four Oaks.