27555, Micro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27555, Micro, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.54 percent of residents in 27555 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 8.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27555

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven with the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare. In ZIP Code 27555, a region experiencing significant growth, particularly with individuals and families *moving to Micro*, understanding the landscape of *transportation* options to medical facilities is paramount. This report provides an *Overall Health Score*, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare based on various commuting modalities, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

ZIP Code 27555, encompassing the town of Micro, North Carolina, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare *access*. While the town itself offers limited medical facilities, residents rely on surrounding towns and cities for specialized care. This necessitates a thorough examination of the available *transportation* infrastructure and services.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of *transportation* for residents of 27555 to access healthcare is by car. The major thoroughfare connecting Micro to larger medical centers is US Highway 301. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP Code and the destination, drive times can vary considerably. For instance, a trip to Wilson Medical Center in Wilson, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

Traveling to Johnston Health in Smithfield, about 25 miles away, requires navigating US Highway 301 and potentially Interstate 95 (I-95). This journey can extend to 35-45 minutes, and even longer during peak hours or if there are incidents along the way. The condition of the roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact travel times.

For specialized care in Raleigh, approximately 50 miles away, residents must utilize US Highway 301, Interstate 95, and potentially US Highway 64. This commute can consume 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic congestion. The extended travel time poses a significant challenge, especially for individuals requiring urgent or frequent medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public *transportation* options in 27555 are severely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There are no fixed-route bus services that directly connect Micro to major healthcare facilities. This absence of public transit creates a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive.

The absence of a robust public *transportation* network disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. The lack of accessibility to healthcare facilities due to limited public transit can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately affecting health outcomes.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 27555, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and distance traveled. Ride-sharing may not be a reliable option for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or lack other *transportation* options. Several medical *transportation* providers operate in the area, including companies that offer non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and may have associated fees.

The availability and affordability of medical *transportation* services are essential for ensuring that residents of 27555 can access necessary healthcare. However, the reliance on these services can add to the overall cost of healthcare and may not be readily available in all situations.

**Specific Considerations: ADA Compliance and Brand Names**

When evaluating public *transportation* options, it is crucial to assess their compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA-compliant services ensure that individuals with disabilities can access *transportation* without barriers. This includes features such as wheelchair accessibility, ramps, and designated seating.

For ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services, it is essential to consider the specific brands and their associated costs and services. Researching the reputation and reliability of these providers is crucial to making informed decisions. While the specific brands operating in 27555 may vary, it is important to identify providers that offer reliable, affordable, and accessible *transportation* options.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The *Overall Health Score* for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 27555 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities through driving, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services present challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities can be significant, especially for those requiring specialized care in larger cities. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system creates barriers for vulnerable populations. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offer alternative options, but their availability, cost, and reliability can vary.

As the population of 27555 continues to grow, particularly with individuals and families *moving to Micro*, addressing the challenges of healthcare *access* is crucial. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring options for improving public *transportation*, supporting ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services, and potentially attracting additional healthcare providers to the area.

The *Overall Health Score* for 27555 can be improved by enhancing the *transportation* infrastructure and services, ensuring that all residents have equal *access* to quality healthcare. Investing in these areas will not only improve the health and well-being of the community but also contribute to the overall economic vitality of the region.