27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.31 percent of residents in 27577 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 1.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven with its access to essential services, and paramount among these is healthcare. For residents of Smithfield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27577), the ease and efficiency with which they can reach medical facilities directly impact their overall health score. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around Smithfield, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Smithfield, as it directly influences their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Smithfield, a vibrant town in Johnston County, experiences the typical transportation challenges of a growing suburban area. The primary arteries for vehicular movement are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 70, and US Highway 301. These highways, while facilitating regional travel, can also contribute to congestion, especially during peak hours. The efficiency of healthcare access is therefore heavily reliant on these roadways.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and around Smithfield are a critical factor. The Johnston Health Smithfield hospital, a vital resource for the community, is generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive for most residents of the town. However, the specific drive time can fluctuate depending on the starting point within the ZIP code and the time of day. For those residing in the more rural areas of 27577, the journey might extend slightly, particularly if traversing secondary roads like NC Highway 210 or Buffalo Road.

Specialized medical services, such as those provided by specialists in Raleigh or Durham, necessitate longer commutes. Reaching Duke University Hospital in Durham typically requires a 45-60 minute drive, primarily utilizing I-40. Similarly, accessing WakeMed Raleigh Campus in Raleigh often takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-95 and US 70. These longer drive times underscore the importance of considering proximity to specialized care when evaluating healthcare access in Smithfield.

Public transportation options in Smithfield, while present, are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some bus services within the county. However, these routes are not extensive and may not directly serve all areas of the 27577 ZIP code. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be limited, potentially making it challenging for residents to rely solely on public transit for healthcare appointments.

JCATS buses may have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps or lifts, to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, it is essential to verify the specific features and route availability with JCATS directly. This is particularly important for individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance with mobility.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Smithfield and can offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. During peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, wait times can be longer, and fares may be higher.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available for residents of Smithfield. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, often for those who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation. Several companies operate in the area, including local and regional providers.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Smithfield, NC (27577) is influenced by a combination of factors. While the town boasts a local hospital and relatively short drive times for basic medical needs, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides additional support, but these services may not be readily available or affordable for all residents.

For individuals considering moving to Smithfield, it is crucial to assess their specific healthcare needs and transportation requirements. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent specialist appointments should carefully evaluate the drive times to specialized medical facilities in Raleigh or Durham. Individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive should investigate the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

The health score is also influenced by the infrastructure that supports transportation. The condition of roads, the presence of sidewalks and bike lanes, and the availability of parking at medical facilities all play a role in the ease and safety of healthcare access. These factors contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community.

Furthermore, the cost of transportation must be considered. The price of gasoline, the cost of vehicle maintenance, and the fares for ride-sharing services can all impact the affordability of healthcare access. For low-income residents, these costs can be a significant barrier to receiving necessary medical care.

In conclusion, while Smithfield offers reasonable access to basic healthcare services, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. The availability of a local hospital, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options enhances healthcare access. However, the limited public transit, reliance on personal vehicles, and longer drive times to specialized care facilities can pose barriers. Understanding these factors is essential for assessing the overall health score and making informed decisions about healthcare access when considering moving to Smithfield. The town continues to evolve, and improvements to transportation infrastructure and public transit could significantly enhance the health score for all residents.