27542, Kenly, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27542, Kenly, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.07 percent of residents in 27542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 15.28 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27542 (Kenly, North Carolina)**

Considering a move to Kenly, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27542)? Assessing healthcare access is paramount. This comprehensive analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities from this rural community, considering transportation options and potential barriers. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a clear picture of healthcare accessibility. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about your well-being.

Kenly's location in Johnston County presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The community's rural nature dictates reliance on personal vehicles, with public transportation options limited. Understanding these nuances is essential for a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility. The score will reflect a composite of these factors, offering a valuable perspective for potential residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Kenly is personal vehicles. Drive times to medical facilities significantly impact the Overall Health Score. Major roadways dictate these journeys. Interstate 95 (I-95) serves as the primary north-south artery, providing access to larger towns and cities with more extensive medical services.

Traveling south on I-95 offers access to medical facilities in Smithfield and Clayton, typically within a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic. The use of US Highway 301, a parallel route to I-95, offers a slower, alternative route, often experiencing more traffic congestion, potentially increasing travel times.

Heading north on I-95, you'll find access to medical facilities in Wilson and Rocky Mount. These destinations are generally within a 45- to 60-minute drive. The slower pace of US Highway 301 will take longer to get to these locations.

Local roads, such as NC Highway 222 and NC Highway 581, provide access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities closer to Kenly. These local routes, while offering convenience, might not provide the full spectrum of medical services available in larger towns. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

The Overall Health Score is negatively impacted by these drive times. The reliance on personal vehicles and the distances to major medical centers contribute to a lower score, especially for those without reliable transportation or facing mobility challenges.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Kenly are extremely limited, significantly impacting the Overall Health Score. Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some services, but their routes and schedules are not designed to serve the specific needs of healthcare access.

JCATS operates demand-response services, requiring advance booking. This can be a significant barrier for those requiring immediate medical attention. Furthermore, the service area may not extend to all healthcare facilities, further limiting its utility.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. JCATS is required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring accessible vehicles. However, the limited service area and advance booking requirements may still present challenges for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of robust public transit severely impacts the Overall Health Score. The limited availability and potential inconvenience of JCATS significantly reduce the accessibility of healthcare for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Kenly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kenly area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, further impacting the Overall Health Score.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. These services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), can transport patients to and from medical appointments.

The availability and cost of medical transport services also influence the Overall Health Score. While these services provide a vital lifeline for certain populations, they can be expensive and may not be readily available for all medical needs. The need for pre-booking and coordination can also add complexity to accessing healthcare.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services partially mitigates the limitations of public transit and long drive times. However, the potential for cost and availability issues still negatively impacts the Overall Health Score.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 27542 is moderately low. The primary factors contributing to this score are:

* **Long drive times:** The reliance on personal vehicles and the distances to major medical facilities increase travel times.
* **Limited public transit:** The lack of robust public transit options restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Variable ride-sharing and medical transport:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be inconsistent.

These factors create potential barriers to accessing timely and efficient healthcare. While Kenly offers a rural lifestyle, the healthcare access challenges must be considered.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Kenly**

Potential residents considering a move to Kenly should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should thoroughly research the availability of medical services and transportation options.

Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the reliability of transportation. If you rely on public transit or ride-sharing, assess the feasibility of using these services for your medical needs. Explore the availability and cost of medical transport services.

For those with reliable transportation, the long drive times to medical facilities should be factored into their decision-making process. Plan for potential delays and consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times.

**Conclusion**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Kenly, NC (ZIP Code 27542) reflects the challenges of accessing medical services in a rural environment. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, potential residents must carefully weigh the transportation limitations and healthcare access issues before making a decision. A thorough understanding of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services is essential for ensuring your well-being. Making an informed decision about your healthcare access is a critical step in considering moving to Kenly.