27613, Raleigh, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27613, Raleigh, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.61 percent of residents in 27613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rex Hospital with a distance of 7.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27613

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 27613, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. It examines the transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, to determine the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This score is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Raleigh**, as it highlights a crucial aspect of quality of life.

ZIP Code 27613, encompassing a significant portion of North Raleigh, presents a complex tapestry of transportation options, each impacting healthcare accessibility differently. The score reflects the realities of navigating this area, considering both the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of travel. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of how easily residents can access necessary medical care.

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

The primary mode of transportation in 27613, as with much of Raleigh, is the personal vehicle. This necessitates an examination of drive times to various healthcare facilities. The major roadways, including Interstate 540 (the Triangle Expressway), US-70, and Falls of Neuse Road, form the critical arteries for this commute.

Traveling to WakeMed North Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, typically involves navigating Falls of Neuse Road or, for those further east, a combination of US-70 and Capital Boulevard. During peak hours, congestion can significantly extend these commutes. Morning and evening rush hours can transform a 15-minute drive into a frustrating 30-minute ordeal, impacting appointment adherence and overall well-being.

Other hospitals, such as Duke Raleigh Hospital, require navigating a network of roads, including I-440 (the Raleigh Beltline) and Wade Avenue. The further south a resident lives within 27613, the more likely they are to experience longer drive times to these facilities. The presence of traffic signals and intersections along these routes also contributes to travel time variability.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The City of Raleigh operates a public transit system, GoRaleigh, offering a limited network of bus routes within 27613. While the system provides an alternative to driving, its impact on healthcare access is nuanced.

Several bus routes, including routes 5, 18, and 25, traverse key areas of 27613, offering connections to major thoroughfares and healthcare facilities. However, frequency and route coverage are significant limitations. Many routes operate on 30- to 60-minute intervals, which can be inconvenient for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Furthermore, the system's geographical limitations restrict access for residents living in more remote areas of the zip code. The need to transfer between routes to reach certain healthcare facilities also increases travel time and complexity.

GoRaleigh strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, accessibility is not always seamless, and challenges such as limited sidewalk infrastructure and the distance between bus stops and medical facilities can still pose difficulties.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient on-demand transportation option for residents of 27613. These services offer flexibility and eliminate the need for personal vehicle ownership. They are particularly useful for those unable to drive or without access to a car.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier to healthcare access, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase expenses. The availability of drivers can also be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas of the zip code.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While they offer a valuable service, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 27613 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, presents a challenge. While ride-sharing services offer an alternative, the cost and availability can be a concern. Public transit, though present, has limitations in terms of frequency, coverage, and travel time.

The score is influenced by the specific location within the zip code. Residents closer to major roadways and healthcare facilities generally experience better access. Those in more remote areas, or who rely on public transit, may face greater challenges.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Improving healthcare access in 27613 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit routes and increasing frequency would significantly benefit residents. Investing in dedicated bus lanes and improved infrastructure along key corridors would expedite travel times.

Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could make them more affordable. Encouraging the development of more healthcare facilities within the zip code, or in close proximity, would reduce drive times and improve convenience.

For individuals **moving to Raleigh**, understanding the transportation landscape within 27613 is crucial. Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing services. These factors directly impact quality of life and the ability to maintain good health.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static. It can evolve with infrastructure improvements, technological advancements, and policy changes. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of 27613 have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The goal is to foster a community where healthcare is accessible, affordable, and convenient for all.