27607, Raleigh, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27607, Raleigh, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.78 percent of residents in 27607 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rex Hospital with a distance of 0.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 27607

Assessing the overall health score for accessing healthcare in Raleigh's 27607 ZIP code necessitates a comprehensive examination of transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all crucial factors influencing healthcare access. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and those considering moving to Raleigh, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the current infrastructure.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The 27607 ZIP code, encompassing areas like downtown Raleigh and portions of the historic Oakwood neighborhood, presents a mixed bag regarding automobile transportation. While the central location offers relatively short distances to various healthcare facilities, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, significantly impacts drive times.

Primary arteries like US-1 (Capital Boulevard) and I-40 provide access to major hospitals and specialist clinics. However, these highways can become bottlenecks, especially during rush hour. Commuting to Duke Raleigh Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, might take 15 minutes in light traffic but could easily double during peak periods. Similarly, accessing WakeMed Raleigh Campus, situated south of the area, can be a challenge, particularly when navigating the intersections along Western Boulevard.

Local roads, including New Bern Avenue and Hillsborough Street, offer alternative routes but are often congested with local traffic, adding to the overall commute time. The condition of the roads, with potholes and uneven surfaces, can further impact travel times and potentially exacerbate health issues for those with mobility challenges.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

Raleigh's public transit system, GoRaleigh, provides a network of bus routes serving the 27607 area. While the system is expanding, its reach to healthcare facilities remains somewhat limited. Several routes, including the 2, 3, and 11, offer connections to downtown hospitals and clinics, such as WakeMed Raleigh Campus and UNC Rex Healthcare.

However, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Long wait times and limited route options can make it challenging for individuals to attend appointments, particularly those with chronic conditions requiring frequent visits.

GoRaleigh offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial feature for ensuring healthcare access for all residents. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall navigability of the transit system for individuals with mobility limitations still need improvement.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. They provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for low-income individuals.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the 27607 area. These services, such as Care Ride and MedTrans, often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. They provide door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, these services may require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access and the 27607 Resident:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in 27607 is moderate. While the central location offers proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliance on automobiles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. Traffic congestion and the cost of ride-sharing services can significantly impact commute times and the financial burden on residents.

The availability of ADA-accessible public transit and specialized medical transportation services improves the score for individuals with disabilities. However, the need for more frequent bus service, expanded route options, and more affordable ride-sharing alternatives remains.

**Factors Influencing the Health Score:**

Several factors contribute to the overall health score. The density of healthcare facilities within and around the 27607 ZIP code is a positive aspect. The presence of major hospitals, specialist clinics, and urgent care centers provides residents with a wide range of healthcare options.

However, the lack of a robust public transit system and the potential for traffic congestion negatively impact the score. The cost of transportation, including gas, parking, and ride-sharing fees, can also create financial barriers to healthcare access, particularly for low-income individuals.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score, several initiatives are needed. Expanding the GoRaleigh bus network, increasing service frequency, and adding more direct routes to healthcare facilities would significantly improve access. Investing in dedicated bus lanes on major roads, like Capital Boulevard and New Bern Avenue, could help alleviate traffic congestion and reduce commute times.

Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income individuals or providing transportation vouchers could help address the financial barriers to healthcare access. Promoting walking and cycling infrastructure, such as bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, could encourage healthier transportation options.

**Moving to Raleigh and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Raleigh and residing in the 27607 ZIP code, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the central location offers advantages, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly evaluate the accessibility of the GoRaleigh system.

Individuals who drive should factor in potential traffic congestion and the cost of parking when assessing their healthcare access. Researching the location of healthcare facilities relative to potential residences and considering the availability of ride-sharing services is essential.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in 27607 reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from its central location and proximity to healthcare facilities, the limitations of the transportation infrastructure create challenges. Addressing these challenges through public transit improvements, affordable ride-sharing options, and infrastructure enhancements is crucial to ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents. The success of these efforts will significantly impact the overall health and well-being of the 27607 community.