27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.84 percent of residents in 27885 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 44.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hosp Inc with a distance of 38.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Swanquarter, NC (ZIP Code 27885)

The overall health score for residents of Swanquarter, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27885) reflects a complex interplay of factors, but a critical component is **healthcare access**. This analysis focuses on the challenges and opportunities surrounding **transportation** to medical facilities, offering insights for individuals considering **moving to Swanquarter** and assessing their healthcare needs. The remoteness of this coastal community significantly impacts this score, demanding a thorough examination of available **transportation** options.

Swanquarter, nestled in Hyde County, presents a unique geographical challenge. The nearest significant medical centers are located in Washington, NC, approximately 40 miles away, or Greenville, NC, about 70 miles distant. This distance translates to considerable travel time, potentially hindering timely access to care and impacting overall health outcomes.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents involves personal vehicles. The most direct route to Washington, NC, typically utilizes NC-264 East. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes approximately one hour. However, this estimate doesn't account for potential delays due to weather, traffic, or road construction. The trip to Greenville, NC, involves a longer journey, often via NC-264 East and US-264 Bypass, or a combination of US-264 East and US-13 North. This drive can take upwards of one hour and thirty minutes, making it a significant time commitment for routine appointments or emergencies.

The quality of the roads themselves is a factor. While NC-264 is generally well-maintained, sections can experience wear and tear, particularly after inclement weather. The narrow roads, especially in rural areas, can also contribute to increased travel times and potential safety concerns.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Swanquarter. The local public transit system, if any, is likely to be minimal, with infrequent routes. The absence of readily available public transit significantly disadvantages individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

The potential for public **transportation** is further diminished by the lack of a robust network. The absence of a comprehensive bus system or rail service means residents are largely reliant on personal vehicles or, in the absence of those, less reliable options.

The lack of accessible public transit is a major concern for individuals with disabilities. Without dedicated routes or ADA-compliant vehicles, accessing healthcare becomes a significant hurdle. This lack of accessibility contributes to a lower overall health score for this population segment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in larger cities like Greenville and Washington, but their presence in Swanquarter is questionable. Even if available, the cost of these services for such long distances could be prohibitive for many residents, further limiting **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Rural Medical Transport or similar regional providers may offer services in the area. These services typically provide non-emergency medical **transportation** for appointments and other healthcare needs. However, availability and cost vary, and these services may not be readily accessible in all situations.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are available, but response times can be significantly impacted by the community's remoteness. The time it takes for an ambulance to arrive at a patient's location is critical in emergency situations. The distance to the nearest hospital or trauma center can also influence the outcome of a medical emergency.

The availability of local healthcare facilities is another key factor. Swanquarter has limited medical resources within the community. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care. The lack of local options adds to the burden of **transportation** and increases the overall time commitment for healthcare.

The overall health score for Swanquarter reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for long travel times all contribute to a lower score. The absence of readily available ride-sharing services and the cost of medical **transportation** further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Swanquarter**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Those with chronic health conditions, limited mobility, or without access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the potential difficulties of accessing healthcare.

The impact of weather on **transportation** should also be considered. Coastal communities are susceptible to hurricanes and other severe weather events, which can disrupt travel and limit access to healthcare.

The overall health score for Swanquarter is also influenced by the availability of preventative care services. Access to regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations can improve health outcomes and reduce the need for emergency care. The availability of these services within the community or in nearby towns is a key factor in assessing the overall health score.

The cost of healthcare is another important consideration. The expenses associated with **transportation** to medical appointments, coupled with the cost of medical care itself, can create a financial burden for residents.

The presence of telehealth services can mitigate some of the challenges of accessing healthcare in remote areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. However, the availability and accessibility of telehealth services vary, and they may not be suitable for all medical needs.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Swanquarter, NC, is significantly impacted by the challenges of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The remoteness of the community, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for long travel times all contribute to a lower score. Individuals considering **moving to Swanquarter** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities. Addressing these challenges through improved public **transportation**, increased access to medical **transportation** services, and the expansion of telehealth options would significantly improve the overall health score for residents of this unique coastal community.