27876, Seaboard, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27876, Seaboard, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.37 percent of residents in 27876 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 12.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27876

The quaint town of Seaboard, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 27876, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the challenges inherent in accessing essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, focusing on the accessibility of medical facilities, considering the transportation infrastructure, and evaluating the ease with which residents can reach the care they need. For those contemplating moving to Seaboard, understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" considers several key elements. These include drive times to various healthcare providers, the availability and efficacy of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the options for medical transportation. Each of these factors is weighted based on its impact on healthcare access. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential difficulties.

Seaboard’s location in Northampton County significantly influences its healthcare landscape. The nearest significant medical centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. The primary thoroughfares for travel are US-158, which runs east-west, and NC-35, which travels north-south. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours or in the event of an accident.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the "Overall Health Score." The closest hospitals are in Roanoke Rapids, approximately a 25-30 minute drive via US-158 and I-95. This drive time can be significantly extended during inclement weather or heavy traffic. Urgent care facilities are also available in Roanoke Rapids, offering a more immediate option for non-emergency medical needs.

Specialist care often requires longer journeys. For example, access to specialized medical services in Greenville, NC, a regional hub for healthcare, can take up to an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves traveling on US-158 to US-64, and then onto US-264. Further afield, access to larger medical centers in Raleigh, NC, could take over two hours, impacting access to specialized care, and diagnostic services.

Public transportation options in Seaboard are limited. The primary provider of public transportation in Northampton County is the Roanoke Valley Transportation Authority (RVTA). However, RVTA’s services are limited in scope, with routes primarily focused on serving the larger towns and cities within the county. While RVTA may offer some demand-response services, such as paratransit for individuals with disabilities, the availability of these services in Seaboard may be restricted, and require advance booking.

The RVTA buses are equipped with features to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. This includes ramps, lifts, and designated seating areas. However, the limited frequency and geographic coverage of the RVTA’s routes in Seaboard present a significant challenge for residents who rely on public transportation for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability can be affected by factors such as driver availability, time of day, and the distance to the nearest pickup location. Residents may experience longer wait times, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. Several companies operate in the region, offering services ranging from non-emergency medical transport to ambulance services. These companies include both local and regional providers, and their services can be accessed by contacting them directly or through healthcare providers.

The availability of medical transportation services is a positive factor in the "Overall Health Score." However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and may not be covered by all insurance plans. The need for advance booking and the potential for delays can also impact access to healthcare.

The “Overall Health Score” for commute to healthcare in ZIP code 27876 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The score is impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and potential delays associated with medical transportation.

For those considering moving to Seaboard, understanding these challenges is vital. While the area offers a peaceful, rural environment, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration. Residents must be prepared to rely on personal vehicles, explore alternative transportation options, and potentially face longer travel times to reach healthcare providers.

The "Overall Health Score" for Seaboard, NC (27876) is moderate. While residents can access healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents significant challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential for longer travel times all contribute to a lower score.

Improving healthcare access in Seaboard requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding medical transportation services would all contribute to a higher "Overall Health Score." Promoting healthcare awareness and education within the community would also empower residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The challenges in healthcare access in Seaboard highlight the importance of community involvement and collaboration. Local organizations, healthcare providers, and government agencies can work together to address these challenges, ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need.

The future of healthcare access in Seaboard depends on addressing the transportation and healthcare access issues. This includes promoting innovative solutions, such as telehealth services, to provide remote healthcare consultations and monitoring. By addressing these challenges, Seaboard can improve its "Overall Health Score" and create a healthier community for all its residents.