27823, Enfield, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.99 percent of residents in 27823 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 16.48 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27823 (Enfield, NC)**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential healthcare services. In Enfield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27823), a rural area, this access is significantly influenced by transportation infrastructure and options. This report assesses the overall health score of the community, focusing on the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access, particularly for individuals considering moving to Enfield. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transportation, providing a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access.

The overall health score for Enfield, NC (27823), concerning healthcare access is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The rural nature of the area presents inherent challenges, primarily in the form of limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles. This score is influenced by several factors, including the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the affordability of these options. The current state of affairs presents a mixed bag for residents, and especially those considering a move to Enfield.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Enfield is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares in the area are US-301 and NC-48, which provide access to nearby towns and cities where healthcare facilities are located. However, these roads are often subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics can vary considerably depending on the time of day and the destination.

For example, a trip to Vidant Edgecombe Hospital in Tarboro, approximately 15 miles away, could take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic on US-301. Similarly, a trip to Halifax Regional Medical Center in Roanoke Rapids, about 30 miles away, could take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the route taken, often utilizing US-301 and US-158. These drive times can be a significant burden for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While the primary highways are generally well-maintained, secondary roads can be less so, potentially adding to travel time and increasing the risk of accidents. This is a critical factor for those with mobility limitations or those who may not have access to reliable vehicles. The infrastructure, while present, requires consistent upkeep and investment to facilitate optimal healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Reality**

Public transportation options in Enfield are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the town itself. The primary public transit option is the Roanoke-Chowan Regional Transportation System (RCRTS), which provides demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service is available to the general public, but it is often under-resourced and may not always be able to accommodate all requests, especially for same-day appointments.

The RCRTS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and the need for advance booking can pose significant challenges for those with urgent medical needs or those who lack the ability to plan their transportation well in advance. The lack of a fixed-route bus system further exacerbates the problem, making it difficult for residents to access healthcare facilities without relying on personal vehicles or other transportation alternatives.

The absence of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who are elderly, low-income, or have disabilities. This is a key area where improvements are needed to enhance the overall health score of the community. The availability of reliable and affordable public transportation is a critical factor in ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Enfield is limited. While these services may be present in larger cities nearby, their presence in Enfield is not guaranteed, and their availability can be sporadic. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for accessing healthcare, particularly for those who require regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, are available but can be expensive. These services typically cater to individuals who need assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for low-income individuals.

The lack of readily available and affordable ride-sharing and medical transportation options further compounds the transportation challenges faced by residents of Enfield. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transportation, creates a healthcare access gap that needs to be addressed. The introduction of ride-sharing services or the expansion of medical transportation options could significantly improve the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Enfield**

For individuals considering moving to Enfield, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The limited transportation options can impact the ability to access healthcare services, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions or those who require frequent medical care. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and assess whether they have access to a reliable vehicle or can afford the cost of alternative transportation options.

The availability of healthcare facilities in the area is also a factor. While Enfield itself has limited healthcare facilities, nearby towns and cities offer a wider range of services. However, the distance to these facilities and the transportation challenges associated with accessing them should be carefully considered.

Individuals moving to Enfield should research the availability of transportation assistance programs, such as those offered by the county or non-profit organizations. These programs may provide financial assistance or transportation services to help individuals access healthcare. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring access to healthcare and maintaining overall health.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the overall health score for Enfield, several steps can be taken. Investing in the RCRTS, increasing its service area, frequency, and hours of operation is a priority. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to incentivize service in the area could also be beneficial. Additionally, exploring the feasibility of establishing a local medical transportation program, perhaps in partnership with local healthcare providers or non-profit organizations, could help address the needs of those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford private transportation.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of existing transportation assistance programs and ensuring that these programs are adequately funded and accessible is crucial. Improving the condition of the roads and ensuring that they are well-maintained can also contribute to safer and more efficient transportation. Addressing these issues will help to improve the overall health score of the community and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare services they need.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Enfield, NC (27823), is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The limited transportation options, including the lack of robust public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, present significant challenges for residents. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and promoting the availability of transportation assistance programs is essential to improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare. For those considering moving to Enfield, a careful assessment of transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is crucial to ensure a successful transition.