27617, Raleigh, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27617, Raleigh, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.38 percent of residents in 27617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rex Hospital with a distance of 7.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27617

This analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare services within and from ZIP Code 27617 in Raleigh, North Carolina, providing an "Overall Health Score." The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, considering various transportation options. This is crucial information for anyone **moving to Raleigh**, particularly those prioritizing **healthcare access**. We will evaluate factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of the area's healthcare accessibility.

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This accessibility is often determined by the efficiency and availability of **transportation**. For residents of 27617, a suburban area, the landscape of healthcare access is shaped by a combination of factors. Understanding these factors is paramount for residents seeking to maintain or improve their well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many in 27617. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network and traffic patterns. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 440 (the Beltline) and Interstate 40 are critical arteries, connecting 27617 to various healthcare facilities. The drive to Duke Raleigh Hospital, for instance, located near the intersection of Wake Forest Road and the Beltline, typically takes between 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Navigating the Beltline, especially during peak hours, can present challenges. Congestion is common, particularly around the Six Forks Road and Glenwood Avenue exits. The drive to WakeMed Raleigh Campus, located off New Bern Avenue, may take 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day and traffic flow on US-64 East/New Bern Avenue. This highlights the importance of factoring in travel time when scheduling appointments.

Smaller roads, such as Falls of Neuse Road, provide alternative routes, but these can be subject to traffic lights and slower speeds. The proximity of 27617 to these major roads generally facilitates relatively easy access to a wide array of healthcare providers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the need for alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City**

The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The GoRaleigh bus system serves 27617, offering several routes that connect to major healthcare destinations. Route 10, for example, provides service along Falls of Neuse Road, connecting to the downtown area and transferring to other routes to various medical facilities.

The GoRaleigh system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. This is a crucial factor in ensuring equitable access to healthcare for individuals with disabilities. The bus system, while offering a vital service, may require longer travel times than driving, especially for destinations located further from the main bus routes.

Route 100, the GoRaleigh Rapid bus line, provides a faster, more direct connection to downtown Raleigh. From there, transfers can be made to other routes that serve healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service and the need for transfers can impact the overall travel time and convenience.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another avenue for healthcare access in 27617. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, so it is important to factor this into the overall cost of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and other needs. This is a particularly valuable option for individuals who require specialized assistance or have difficulty using public transit.

These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. However, the specialized care and convenience they provide make them a valuable option for those who require them.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 27617 is moderately high. The area benefits from relatively good access to major roadways, facilitating efficient driving times to healthcare facilities. The GoRaleigh bus system provides a public transit option, though it may be less convenient for some destinations. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, particularly for those with specific needs.

However, several factors can impact the overall score. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can increase drive times and impact the reliability of transportation. The frequency and coverage of the GoRaleigh bus system, while improving, could be enhanced to provide better access to all areas of the zip code and to more healthcare facilities. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a barrier for some individuals.

For those **moving to Raleigh**, 27617 offers a reasonable level of **healthcare access**. However, individuals should carefully consider their transportation needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with the GoRaleigh routes and schedules. Those who require specialized assistance should explore the availability of medical transport services.

This analysis highlights the importance of considering all available transportation options when assessing healthcare access. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each mode, residents of 27617 can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can reach the care they require. The continued investment in public transit and the expansion of ride-sharing and medical transport options will further improve the Overall Health Score for this community.