27845, Jackson, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27845, Jackson, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.50 percent of residents in 27845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 13.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27845

This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 27845, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. We delve into the complexities of transportation options, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This analysis aims to inform individuals considering moving to Jackson, North Carolina, and to highlight potential challenges and opportunities related to accessing healthcare.

The Overall Health Score is a composite metric, considering the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach various healthcare providers. Factors like travel time, mode of transportation, availability of services, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities are all factored into the score. The higher the score, the better the healthcare access.

ZIP Code 27845, encompassing the town of Jackson, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its rural nature and limited public transportation options create specific challenges. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles, making drive times a critical factor in the Overall Health Score.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating the local road network. The primary thoroughfare is US-158, which serves as a vital artery connecting Jackson to neighboring towns and cities. Depending on the destination, residents may also utilize NC-46, a north-south route, and NC-305, offering access to areas further east.

For residents seeking primary care, several local clinics are within a reasonable driving distance. The drive to these facilities typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP Code. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals located in nearby cities like Roanoke Rapids or Rocky Mount.

The drive to Roanoke Rapids, the closest city with a major hospital, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken, often involving US-158 and US-258. This commute can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Rocky Mount, located further south, requires a drive of about an hour, primarily via US-158 and US-64. This longer distance increases the time commitment and potentially limits healthcare access for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 27845 are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider of public transit in the region is Roanoke Valley Transportation (RVT). However, RVT's service area does not directly extend into Jackson. Residents needing public transportation to access healthcare must rely on alternative arrangements.

The lack of robust public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The absence of regular bus routes or dedicated medical transport services creates a barrier to healthcare, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. While RVT strives to provide accessible services, the limited availability of its routes in the area means that those with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The absence of wheelchair-accessible buses or other specialized transportation services further exacerbates the problem.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand, potentially impacting the reliability of transportation to healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduled rides in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

However, the availability of medical transport services may be limited, and scheduling appointments often requires advance notice. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 27845 reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare availability. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create a mixed picture.

The proximity of local clinics provides reasonable access to primary care. However, the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care significantly impacts the Overall Health Score. The longer drive times, the lack of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services all contribute to challenges in healthcare access.

**Moving to Jackson: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Jackson, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the potential impact of limited public transit options.

Individuals with mobility issues or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle should investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services. They should also consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the potential drive times to access specialized care.

The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 27845 reflects the need for strategic planning and proactive measures to ensure adequate healthcare access. Individuals moving to Jackson should prioritize researching the availability of healthcare providers, assessing their transportation options, and making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 27845 highlights the need for improvements in healthcare access. Addressing the limitations in public transit, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability and accessibility of medical transport services are crucial steps.

Improving healthcare access requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Investing in transportation infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and promoting awareness of available resources can significantly improve the Overall Health Score and enhance the well-being of residents in Jackson and surrounding areas. Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where all residents have equitable and convenient access to the healthcare they need.