27872, Roxobel, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.86 percent of residents in 27872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 18.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Roxobel, NC (ZIP Code 27872)

This comprehensive analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Roxobel, North Carolina (ZIP code 27872), focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, especially for those considering moving to Roxobel. We will explore the available modes of transportation, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, evaluating their efficiency, affordability, and suitability for various health needs.

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. Factors like distance, transportation infrastructure, and the availability of alternative transportation options significantly influence an individual’s ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This report considers these factors in the context of Roxobel, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

**Private Vehicle Transportation: The Primary Route**

For residents of Roxobel, the private vehicle remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The relative isolation of the town necessitates reliance on personal cars for most medical appointments and treatments. The primary arteries for travel are US-158 and NC-461. US-158, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to larger towns like Murfreesboro and Ahoskie, where more extensive medical facilities are located. NC-461, running north-south, offers connectivity to smaller communities and local healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. For basic primary care, residents might find clinics within a 15-20 minute drive. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often requires traveling to larger regional hospitals, potentially increasing drive times to 30-60 minutes or even longer, especially during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The condition of the roads also plays a crucial role. While US-158 and NC-461 are generally well-maintained, local roads may be less so, potentially impacting vehicle safety and increasing travel times. The cost of owning and operating a vehicle, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Roxobel and the surrounding areas are severely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves the town. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those who do not own vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While some regional transit authorities may offer demand-response services, such as dial-a-ride programs, their availability and coverage are often restricted. These services usually require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them less reliable for urgent medical needs or appointments scheduled at inconvenient times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and routes is essential to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some of the larger towns within reasonable driving distance of Roxobel. However, their presence in Roxobel itself is less certain, and their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including but not limited to: MedTrans, Firstat Nursing Services, and American Medical Response (AMR).

While medical transport services can be invaluable for individuals with specific needs, they can be expensive and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly for those residing in remote areas.

**Healthcare Access and Community Well-being**

The lack of robust transportation options in Roxobel has significant implications for the overall health and well-being of its residents. Limited access to healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced adherence to treatment plans, and poorer health outcomes. This is particularly concerning for individuals with chronic diseases, who require regular medical care to manage their conditions effectively.

The absence of reliable transportation also affects the ability of residents to access preventive care services, such as screenings and vaccinations. These services are crucial for early detection and prevention of diseases, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Roxobel**

For individuals considering moving to Roxobel, it is essential to carefully evaluate the healthcare access landscape. The reliance on private vehicles necessitates careful consideration of the distance to healthcare facilities, the condition of the roads, and the associated costs.

Those who do not own vehicles or have mobility limitations should explore alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing, medical transport, and demand-response transit services. It is crucial to investigate the availability, cost, and reliability of these services before making a move.

Prospective residents should also consider the availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities. Access to these providers can significantly reduce travel times and improve the overall healthcare experience.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Roxobel, NC (ZIP code 27872) is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. While private vehicles remain the primary mode of transport, the lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport pose significant challenges. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including investing in public transportation infrastructure, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the affordability of medical transport.

Improving healthcare access is not only a matter of individual well-being but also a critical factor in fostering a thriving and healthy community. By prioritizing transportation solutions and investing in healthcare infrastructure, Roxobel can ensure that all its residents have the opportunity to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. This will also make Roxobel more attractive for those considering moving to the area.