27847, Kelford, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27847, Kelford, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.42 percent of residents in 27847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 13.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27847

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 27847, which encompasses the charming rural area surrounding Kelford, North Carolina, this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the multifaceted aspects of transportation and its impact on healthcare access for residents. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Kelford and seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Kelford is **US-17**. This highway, while offering a relatively direct route to larger towns and cities where healthcare facilities are concentrated, can be subject to traffic delays, especially during peak hours. Another key road is **NC-42**, which provides a more local connection to surrounding communities. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the destination.

For instance, a trip to Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on US-17. Traveling to larger medical centers in Greenville, like Vidant Medical Center, can extend the journey to approximately an hour and fifteen minutes, requiring travel on US-17 and potentially the US-264 bypass. These drive times can be a significant barrier for individuals requiring urgent or frequent medical attention.

Public transportation options in 27847 are limited, presenting a considerable challenge for those without personal vehicles. The local public transit system, if available, may have limited routes and schedules, often focusing on connecting smaller towns. Information about the specific routes and ADA accessibility features is difficult to find.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transport. The absence of a reliable public transportation system disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This absence significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for the community.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their reliability and cost-effectiveness can be unpredictable. Availability is often contingent on driver presence, which may be sparse in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to healthcare facilities, can quickly become prohibitive, placing an additional financial burden on residents. The dependability of ride-sharing for scheduled appointments or emergency situations is not guaranteed, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services, often provided by private companies or ambulance services, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services are typically expensive and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent medical needs. The availability of medical transport services and their associated costs must be factored into the "Overall Health Score."

The geographical isolation of Kelford and the surrounding areas presents a unique challenge to healthcare access. The distance to major medical facilities, coupled with the limitations of transportation options, can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and increased stress for patients and their families. This situation underscores the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access in the community.

The "Overall Health Score" for 27847, when considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. The availability of personal vehicles and the presence of ride-sharing services offer some degree of access, but the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical transport services create significant barriers. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly for those requiring specialized care, are substantial.

The community's health is intertwined with its ability to overcome these transportation challenges. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-sharing options, and increasing the availability of medical transport services would significantly enhance the "Overall Health Score" for residents of 27847. Furthermore, exploring the possibility of telehealth services and expanding the presence of local healthcare providers could mitigate the impact of long travel distances.

For individuals considering moving to Kelford, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Understanding the limitations of available transportation options and planning accordingly is essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for community-based solutions to improve transportation and healthcare access, ultimately fostering a healthier and more vibrant community.