27576, Selma, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27576, Selma, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.09 percent of residents in 27576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 5.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Selma, NC (ZIP Code 27576)

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone, especially those contemplating a move to a new community. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Selma, North Carolina (ZIP code 27576), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services, considering the various transportation options available. This score encompasses factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in accessing essential medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment, recognizing the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It aims to provide a clear understanding of the realities faced by residents of Selma when seeking medical attention. The score reflects the degree of ease or difficulty in reaching healthcare facilities, considering the practicalities of transportation.

Selma, a town in Johnston County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the town itself may offer some local services, residents often need to travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Raleigh or Smithfield. This necessitates a thorough examination of the transportation infrastructure.

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

The primary mode of transportation in Selma is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score." The major thoroughfare serving Selma is Interstate 95 (I-95), a vital north-south artery. While I-95 offers relatively swift travel, it can experience significant congestion, particularly during peak hours, which can extend drive times to critical medical appointments.

US Highway 70, another crucial route, provides east-west access and connects Selma to Raleigh and other surrounding areas. The drive to Raleigh, a major healthcare hub, via US-70 can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. US-301 is another important road, running parallel to I-95 and offering alternative routes, but it often experiences more local traffic and stoplights, potentially increasing travel times.

The drive to Smithfield, home to Johnston Health, a major healthcare provider, is considerably shorter, typically taking around 15-20 minutes via US-70 or US-301. However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to Raleigh or other larger cities, making drive times a significant factor in the overall health score.

The condition of the roads, including potholes and ongoing construction, can further influence drive times and the overall experience. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration. While most facilities offer parking, the volume of patients can sometimes lead to delays in finding a parking spot, adding to the stress of a medical visit.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Challenging Access**

Public transportation options in Selma are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some bus services, but these routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of residents seeking healthcare.

JCATS routes are subject to change and may not directly connect Selma to all healthcare facilities. The frequency of service is also a concern, with limited options during evenings and weekends, which can be particularly problematic for those needing urgent care or follow-up appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial aspect of public transit. JCATS strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating the system for individuals with disabilities can vary. The distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities can also pose a challenge for those with mobility limitations.

The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation creates a barrier to healthcare access, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical care.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Selma, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and wait times can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by medical transportation companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. However, medical transport services can be costly and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent care needs.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to the "Overall Health Score." While these services can bridge the gap in healthcare access, their limitations, including cost, availability, and advance booking requirements, must be considered.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Overall Health Score" for Selma reflects a complex interplay of factors. Drive times to major healthcare facilities, while manageable for those with personal vehicles, can be significantly impacted by traffic and road conditions. Public transit offers limited options, creating a barrier for those without access to a car. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternative solutions, but their availability, cost, and advance booking requirements present additional challenges.

The geographic location of Selma, while offering proximity to larger cities like Raleigh and Smithfield, necessitates travel for specialized care. The availability of local healthcare providers within Selma is also a crucial factor, impacting the need for longer travel distances.

**Moving to Selma: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Selma, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should evaluate their transportation needs, considering their ability to drive, access to public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services. Researching the location of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, is also critical.

Understanding the drive times to these facilities, the availability of parking, and the potential for traffic congestion can help prospective residents make informed decisions. For those reliant on public transit, exploring the routes and schedules of JCATS and assessing their suitability for accessing healthcare is crucial.

The "Overall Health Score" for Selma, based on transportation considerations, highlights the need for careful planning and preparation. While the town offers a welcoming community, the accessibility of healthcare requires a proactive approach to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care.