27841, Hassell, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27841, Hassell, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 27841 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Martin General Hospital with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27841

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 27841, encompassing the rural community of Hassell, North Carolina, hinges significantly on **transportation** access to **healthcare**. Living in a geographically isolated area presents unique challenges, demanding a comprehensive evaluation of available options. This write-up analyzes the commute landscape, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to provide a nuanced understanding of **healthcare access** for those residing in or **moving to Hassell**.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in 27841 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the region's vast distances. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Ahoskie, approximately 20 miles away, or in Windsor, roughly 15 miles distant. The drive to Ahoskie, the most likely destination, typically involves using NC-461, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. The journey, while seemingly short, can take upwards of 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Windsor, offering a closer option, is accessible via NC-308. This route, also a two-lane thoroughfare, offers a slightly quicker commute, usually taking around 20-25 minutes. However, the availability of specialized medical services in Windsor might be limited, potentially necessitating a longer drive to Ahoskie or even further to larger hospitals in Greenville or Elizabeth City, which are both over an hour away. These longer commutes add significant time and stress, potentially deterring individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

Public transportation options within 27841 are extremely limited. The county's transit system might offer demand-response services, but these are often pre-booked and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. Information on specific routes and schedules is scarce, and the system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance needs to be thoroughly investigated. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are likely available in the area, but their reliability and affordability are questionable. The rural nature of 27841 might lead to longer wait times and higher fares, making them less practical for routine medical appointments. Their availability for emergency situations is also uncertain, as drivers might be scarce in the area. The reliance on ride-sharing, especially for those with limited financial resources, could create a barrier to **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services, like ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in bridging the gap. The response time for ambulances in a rural area is critical. The presence of reliable NEMT providers, offering transportation for appointments and other non-emergency medical needs, is also vital. The specific brands operating in 27841 need to be identified, along with their service areas, pricing, and availability. These services are essential for individuals unable to drive themselves or utilize other modes of transportation.

The overall health score for 27841 is significantly influenced by the challenges in **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to reduced **healthcare access**. The drive times to medical facilities, while not excessively long, can become a deterrent, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The availability and accessibility of medical transport services are critical for improving the health score.

The community's health score could be improved by several strategies. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanding routes and increasing frequency, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting the availability of NEMT services and ensuring their affordability would enhance **healthcare access**.

Community outreach programs, educating residents about available transportation options and assisting with scheduling appointments, could help overcome some of the challenges. Telehealth services, allowing remote consultations and monitoring, could also alleviate the need for frequent travel. These initiatives would contribute to a more positive health score.

For those **moving to Hassell**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider their **healthcare** needs and assess their ability to navigate the region's transportation landscape. The availability of a personal vehicle is almost essential. Researching local medical facilities, transportation options, and the availability of support services is highly recommended.

The health score for 27841 is not solely determined by the physical distance to medical facilities. It is also influenced by the ease and reliability of **transportation**. The lack of diverse transportation options creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, impacting overall health outcomes. The community's health score could be improved by addressing these **transportation** challenges, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can access the **healthcare** they need. The success of any community in 27841, like all rural communities, depends on the ease with which residents can move, and the ease with which they can access the healthcare they need.