27597, Zebulon, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27597, Zebulon, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.10 percent of residents in 27597 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wakemed, Raleigh Campus with a distance of 16.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27597

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Zebulon, North Carolina, ZIP Code 27597, focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access** through various **transportation** options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services, providing a comprehensive view for individuals considering **moving to Zebulon** or evaluating their existing access to medical care.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical layout of Zebulon and its surrounding areas. Zebulon, a charming town in Wake County, is strategically positioned, but its proximity to healthcare facilities varies. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty residents face when accessing crucial medical services.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for many Zebulon residents is personal vehicles. Therefore, drive times to healthcare facilities are paramount. The analysis considers the most common destinations for medical care, including hospitals, urgent care clinics, specialist offices, and primary care physicians.

Accessing major healthcare providers often involves navigating the region's roadways. The primary thoroughfare is US-64, which serves as a vital artery connecting Zebulon to Raleigh and other surrounding cities. Traveling east on US-64 offers access to facilities in Rocky Mount and Wilson. Other key roads include NC-96, which connects Zebulon to Wendell and Knightdale, and NC-39, which provides access to Louisburg.

Drive times to Raleigh, where many specialized medical services are concentrated, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. A typical drive to WakeMed Raleigh Campus, a major hospital, can range from 30 to 45 minutes, potentially longer during rush hour. Rex Hospital, another significant healthcare provider in Raleigh, may take a similar amount of time to reach.

For residents seeking care closer to home, the drive to the UNC Health Nash General Hospital in Rocky Mount, located approximately 30 minutes east on US-64, offers an alternative. The drive to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Zebulon and nearby towns like Wendell and Knightdale generally involves shorter commutes, often within 15 to 20 minutes.

**Public Transit Evaluation:**

Public transit options in Zebulon and the surrounding areas are limited but offer a viable alternative for some residents. The primary public transportation provider is GoRaleigh, which operates bus routes throughout Wake County. However, service within Zebulon itself is currently limited.

Residents may utilize GoRaleigh routes that connect Zebulon to Raleigh, providing access to major healthcare facilities. The primary route serving Zebulon is Route 110, which travels along US-64. This route, while offering a connection to Raleigh, may involve lengthy travel times due to the distance and potential for multiple transfers.

GoRaleigh buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may present challenges for those relying on public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option for Zebulon residents. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and the time of day. While ride-sharing offers flexibility, the cost can be a significant factor for some individuals, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other special needs, are also available. Companies like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical transportation, often coordinating with insurance providers. These services offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and comfortably.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 27597 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. While Zebulon offers a relatively convenient location, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can present challenges for some residents.

The drive times to major healthcare facilities in Raleigh can be a significant factor, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative solutions, but the cost and accessibility of these services must be considered.

The limited public transit options, while ADA-accessible, may not meet the needs of all residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

For individuals considering moving to Zebulon, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the available transportation options is crucial. While Zebulon offers a desirable quality of life, the accessibility of healthcare services should be a key factor in their decision-making process.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 27597 is moderately favorable. Residents have access to a range of healthcare facilities, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options require careful consideration. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services enhances the overall access, but the cost and accessibility of these services should be considered.

The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure and the potential expansion of public transit services could significantly improve the health score in the future. As Zebulon continues to grow, addressing the transportation needs of its residents will be crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.