27574, Roxboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27574, Roxboro, North Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.94 percent of residents in 27574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Person Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.63 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27574 (Roxboro, North Carolina)**

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access vital healthcare services. In Roxboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27574), this access is largely defined by the transportation options available. This report provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Prospective residents considering moving to Roxboro will find this information invaluable.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary arteries for healthcare access in 27574 are U.S. Highway 501 and U.S. Highway 158. These roads are the lifelines connecting residents to local hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. The drive time to Person Memorial Hospital, the primary healthcare provider, is generally short, averaging around 5-10 minutes for those residing within the town limits.

However, travel times expand significantly for specialized care. Accessing larger hospitals in Durham, such as Duke University Hospital or UNC Medical Center, requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via U.S. Highway 501 and then Interstate 85. This commute can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care.

Rural residents may face longer drive times, especially those living further from the town center. Secondary roads, such as North Main Street and Durham Road, provide access, but these routes are often less direct and may be subject to variable road conditions. The efficiency of these roadways directly impacts the overall health score.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Roxboro are limited. The Person County Transportation System (PCTS) provides demand-response services, which require advance booking. These services are essential for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly and individuals with disabilities. However, their availability is constrained by operational hours and scheduling demands.

The PCTS operates within Person County, and its reach to healthcare facilities within the county is reasonably good. However, for accessing healthcare beyond the county, such as in Durham, public transit is not a viable option. There are no direct bus routes or other forms of public transportation connecting Roxboro to the larger healthcare hubs in the region.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. The PCTS strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the reliance on demand-response scheduling can present challenges for those requiring immediate or urgent transportation. The lack of robust public transit significantly affects the health score, particularly for those who are transit-dependent.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Roxboro, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for healthcare-related travel, are another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. Companies like FirstMed and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to healthcare facilities.

These services can be particularly beneficial for those requiring regular appointments or those with chronic conditions. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. The efficiency and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation play a critical role in the overall health score, offering a safety net for those who cannot drive.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 27574 is moderate. The score reflects the following factors:

* **Strengths:** Relatively short drive times to the primary healthcare facility (Person Memorial Hospital) for residents within the town limits. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options for those who cannot drive.
* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transportation options, particularly for accessing healthcare outside of Person County. Longer drive times to specialized care facilities in Durham. Inconsistent availability and potential cost barriers associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The score is influenced by the need to improve public transportation and expand the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation.

**Recommendations**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve healthcare access in 27574, the following recommendations are proposed:

1. **Expand Public Transportation:** Advocate for increased funding and resources to expand the PCTS, including the potential for fixed-route services connecting Roxboro to healthcare hubs in Durham.
2. **Improve Ride-Sharing Access:** Collaborate with ride-sharing companies to ensure consistent service availability and explore options for subsidized fares for healthcare-related trips.
3. **Support Medical Transportation Services:** Partner with medical transportation providers to increase their presence in the area and explore funding mechanisms to reduce costs for patients.
4. **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the adoption of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
5. **Enhance Road Infrastructure:** Advocate for improvements to roadways, including U.S. Highway 501 and U.S. Highway 158, to ensure smooth and efficient travel to healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion**

The ability to access healthcare is fundamental to community well-being. In Roxboro (27574), the current transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity to Person Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for some residents. By implementing the recommendations outlined above, Roxboro can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. For those considering moving to Roxboro, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare access.