27572, Rougemont, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27572, Rougemont, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.96 percent of residents in 27572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rougemont, NC (ZIP Code 27572)

Rougemont, North Carolina, a charming community nestled in Durham County, presents a unique tapestry of rural tranquility and the ever-present need for accessible healthcare. Evaluating the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 27572 necessitates a comprehensive analysis of transportation options, travel times, and the availability of medical facilities. This write-up provides a detailed assessment, offering insights for both current residents and those considering moving to Rougemont, specifically focusing on healthcare access.

The cornerstone of any health score is the ability to readily access medical services. In Rougemont, this hinges significantly on transportation infrastructure. The primary mode of travel for healthcare appointments is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on roads like Highway 501, the main artery connecting Rougemont to Durham and Hillsborough. Highway 501, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the I-85 interchange. This congestion can significantly impact drive times to medical facilities, influencing the overall health score.

Another critical route is Highway 157, offering a more direct path to Durham. This road, however, is primarily a two-lane highway, which can lead to delays, especially during inclement weather. The secondary roads, such as Stagville Road and Lebanon Road, provide access to local communities, but their narrow lanes and winding paths may not be ideal for emergency medical transport.

Drive times to healthcare providers are a critical determinant of the health score. For residents of Rougemont, the closest primary care physicians are typically located in Hillsborough or Durham. Travel times to these locations can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. Under normal circumstances, a drive to Hillsborough, via Highway 501, might take approximately 20-30 minutes. However, a trip to Durham, especially to Duke or UNC medical facilities, could easily extend to 30-45 minutes or even longer during rush hour. This extended travel time can negatively impact healthcare access, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent care.

Public transportation options in Rougemont are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) provides bus services in the broader Durham County area, but these services are not readily available in Rougemont. The lack of robust public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transport, which can be costly and inconvenient.

DATA does offer some routes that extend towards the outskirts of Durham, but these routes are not designed to serve Rougemont directly. The closest DATA bus stop may be several miles away, requiring a car or ride-share to get to the bus stop, adding an extra layer of complexity to the healthcare journey. Furthermore, the frequency of DATA buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not align with the schedules of medical appointments, further diminishing the health score. ADA-accessible features are available on DATA buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation, but their availability in Rougemont can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services might be limited during off-peak hours or in areas with low population density, further impacting the health score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, are another consideration. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport provide specialized transportation, but these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services can be a critical factor for individuals with disabilities or those who are unable to drive themselves.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance of Rougemont is a crucial component of the health score. While Rougemont itself does not have a hospital, residents can access medical services in nearby cities like Durham and Hillsborough. Duke University Hospital and UNC Hospitals are major medical centers located in Durham, offering a wide range of specialized medical services. However, the distance to these facilities, coupled with potential traffic delays, can pose a challenge.

Hillsborough, located closer to Rougemont, offers a more accessible option for primary care physicians and some specialty clinics. However, the availability of specialized medical services in Hillsborough is more limited compared to Durham. The choice of healthcare facility will depend on the individual's medical needs and their willingness to travel.

The overall health score for residents of Rougemont, NC (ZIP code 27572) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for traffic delays contribute to a moderate level of healthcare access. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport also play a significant role. While residents have access to quality healthcare facilities in nearby cities, the travel times and associated costs can negatively impact the overall health score, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, chronic conditions, or those without personal vehicles.

For those considering moving to Rougemont, it is essential to factor in these transportation challenges when assessing the overall health score. While the community offers a peaceful, rural environment, the accessibility of healthcare services requires careful consideration. Prospective residents should evaluate their healthcare needs, assess their transportation options, and plan accordingly to ensure they can readily access the medical care they require. The overall health score in Rougemont is, therefore, a nuanced assessment, reflecting the need for strategic planning to ensure optimal healthcare access.