27830, Fremont, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27830, Fremont, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.81 percent of residents in 27830 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27830

ZIP Code 27830, encompassing Fremont, North Carolina, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, where the interplay of geography, transportation infrastructure, and available services shapes the overall health score. Evaluating this score requires a deep dive into the realities of commuting to healthcare, considering the available options and their associated challenges. The following analysis provides a comprehensive overview, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

The most significant factor influencing healthcare access in Fremont is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's layout and the distribution of healthcare facilities necessitate driving for most medical appointments. The primary arteries for transportation are US Highway 301, a major north-south thoroughfare, and NC Highway 581, providing east-west connectivity. Residents seeking specialized care or advanced medical services often face commutes to larger cities like Goldsboro, Wilson, or even Raleigh, each presenting different time commitments.

Drive times to Goldsboro, the closest city with a significant concentration of healthcare providers, typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on US 301 and the specific destination within the city. Wilson, also offering a variety of medical options, is approximately a 20 to 40-minute drive, primarily via US 301 and occasionally using NC 58. Raleigh, with its extensive network of hospitals and specialists, demands a longer commute, usually taking between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes, primarily via US 70.

The condition of the roads, especially US 301 and NC 581, can significantly impact travel times. While generally well-maintained, these roads can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near Goldsboro. Accidents or construction can further exacerbate delays, highlighting the importance of planning and flexibility when scheduling medical appointments. These factors directly influence the overall health score, as longer commute times can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention, especially for preventative care.

Public transportation options in Fremont are limited. The primary provider is the Wayne County Transit System, which operates a demand-response service. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, a process that can be challenging for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the transit system's routes and schedules may not always align with the operating hours of healthcare facilities, particularly those outside of Goldsboro.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The Wayne County Transit System is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access transportation. However, the availability of these services and the advance booking requirements can still pose challenges. The lack of fixed-route public transportation significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who face mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be unpredictable, impacting the overall health score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like FirstCall Medical Transportation and others provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. While these services can be valuable, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can influence their accessibility.

The availability and affordability of medical transport services are crucial for improving the health score, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. The effectiveness of these services depends on their reliability, affordability, and the ability to accommodate the specific needs of the patient.

When considering a move to Fremont, potential residents should carefully evaluate the healthcare access situation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the overall health score. Individuals with chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or those who prefer to rely on public transportation should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the feasibility of accessing medical services in the area.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 27830 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The accessibility of healthcare is a critical determinant of community health, and the transportation infrastructure plays a pivotal role in shaping this accessibility. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport must be carefully considered.

Ultimately, the health score reflects the degree to which residents can readily access the healthcare they need. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation options is crucial for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can receive timely and appropriate medical care. Addressing the transportation challenges and expanding access to healthcare services are essential steps in improving the overall health score for the community of Fremont.