27565, Oxford, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27565, Oxford, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.98 percent of residents in 27565 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Granville Health Systems with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oxford, NC (ZIP Code 27565)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in Oxford, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27565), to determine an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, offering insights for potential residents considering moving to Oxford. The evaluation emphasizes accessibility, affordability, and efficiency, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this community.

The primary mode of transportation in Oxford, as in many rural areas, is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on driving to access healthcare services. The town's location presents both advantages and disadvantages. Proximity to major roadways is a boon, while the absence of a robust public transportation network poses challenges. The primary arteries for navigating the area are US-15, US-158, and NC-96. These roads connect Oxford to surrounding towns and cities, including Durham and Raleigh, where more specialized medical care is available.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within Oxford are generally manageable. Oxford itself hosts Granville Health System, a significant healthcare provider offering a range of services. Reaching the hospital from most locations within the ZIP code is typically a short drive, often under 15 minutes. However, access to specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Durham or Raleigh. This increases drive times, potentially impacting the Overall Health Score.

Traveling to Durham, approximately 30 miles away, via I-85 presents a relatively straightforward commute. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. A trip to Duke University Hospital, a major healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, accessing healthcare facilities in Raleigh, roughly 45 miles away, involves traveling on US-1 and I-85. This journey, while offering more specialized options, can take over an hour, further complicating healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Oxford are limited. Granville County Transit offers a demand-response service, providing transportation within the county. This service is available to all residents, but it requires advance booking and may not always be ideal for urgent medical needs. The limited frequency and potential for longer travel times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. The availability of accessible vehicles for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) is a crucial factor to consider. Information on ADA-compliant vehicles and services is available through Granville County Transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Oxford, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments or those with limited financial resources. This variable availability and cost impact the Overall Health Score.

Medical transport services cater to individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring ambulance transport or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Several companies operate in the area, providing specialized services for patients who cannot drive themselves or utilize other forms of transportation. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey to medical appointments. The availability and affordability of these services are vital to the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score for Oxford, NC (27565) is moderately impacted by the transportation landscape. While the presence of a local hospital and the proximity to larger medical centers in Durham and Raleigh provide access to a range of healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but their reliability and affordability can be variable.

For individuals considering moving to Oxford, a thorough understanding of the transportation options is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility should carefully assess the available services and their limitations. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fares, should also be factored into the decision-making process.

The Overall Health Score is also affected by the availability of preventative care and primary care physicians within the community. A robust network of primary care providers can reduce the need for travel to more distant medical facilities. The ability to access routine check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings is essential for maintaining good health and preventing more serious medical conditions.

The community's commitment to improving healthcare access is also a critical factor. Initiatives to expand public transportation, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, or provide financial assistance for medical transport can significantly improve the Overall Health Score. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential for creating a more accessible and equitable healthcare system.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for Oxford, NC (27565) reflects a community with moderate healthcare access. While the presence of a local hospital and the proximity to larger medical centers are positive factors, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. Potential residents considering moving to Oxford should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the available resources to ensure they can effectively access the healthcare services they require. The ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access will ultimately determine the future of the Overall Health Score for this community.