27922, Cofield, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.27 percent of residents in 27922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital with a distance of 7.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27922 (Cofield, NC)

The health of a community is intricately linked to its access to healthcare. In the rural expanse of Cofield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27922), this access is significantly shaped by the transportation landscape. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare accessibility, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This analysis is crucial for residents, prospective movers, and policymakers aiming to understand and improve the health infrastructure of this community.

Cofield, a small community nestled in northeastern North Carolina, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's location, characterized by its rural nature, directly influences the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the reality of healthcare access in Cofield, which is a critical component in evaluating the overall well-being of its residents.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary means of transportation for healthcare access in Cofield is the personal vehicle. The road network, however, presents both advantages and disadvantages. Residents typically utilize a combination of state highways and local roads to reach medical facilities. The primary artery is **US Highway 158**, which provides a direct route to major towns like Murfreesboro and Winton, where healthcare facilities are located.

The drive to the nearest hospital, **Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital** in Ahoskie, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on the specific location within Cofield and traffic conditions. This drive often involves navigating **NC Highway 35**, which connects Cofield to Ahoskie. This highway is generally well-maintained but can experience delays during peak hours.

Reaching specialized healthcare providers, such as those in Greenville or Norfolk, Virginia, requires significantly longer travel times. Greenville, home to **Vidant Medical Center**, is roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive via **US Highway 17**. Norfolk, with its concentration of medical facilities, is about a 2-hour drive, typically involving **US Highway 17** and **Interstate 64**. These extended travel times can pose significant challenges for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent care.

The road infrastructure itself presents challenges. While generally in good condition, rural roads like those in Cofield can be susceptible to weather-related closures or delays. This is particularly relevant during hurricane season, which can disrupt access to healthcare for extended periods.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Cofield are limited. The primary public transportation provider for the region is the **North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)**. However, their services in this area are primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The **Rural Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP)** is designed to provide transportation services to residents, but the frequency and routes are limited. While these services are available, they are often not a viable option for routine healthcare appointments due to scheduling constraints and limited availability.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration. The NCDOT strives to ensure its vehicles are accessible to individuals with disabilities, but the limited scope of the service can restrict its overall impact on healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region but are not consistently present in Cofield. The availability of these services is highly dependent on driver availability and demand. Residents cannot rely on ride-sharing as a guaranteed means of transportation to healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services are available but often require advance booking and can be expensive. Companies like **Med-Trans Corporation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** operate in the region, offering ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or those who cannot drive themselves.

The cost of medical transport, coupled with the limited availability of ride-sharing services, creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents of Cofield.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Cofield (ZIP Code 27922) is **moderate**. While residents can reach basic healthcare facilities, the travel times and limited transportation options create significant challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

1. **Expand Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and reach of public transit services, particularly for routes connecting Cofield to healthcare facilities in Murfreesboro, Winton, and Ahoskie. This could involve partnering with local organizations to provide transportation specifically for medical appointments.
2. **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encourage the availability of ride-sharing services in Cofield by partnering with ride-sharing companies and providing incentives for drivers.
3. **Support Medical Transport:** Advocate for affordable medical transport options, including partnerships with local healthcare providers to subsidize the cost of medical transportation.
4. **Telehealth Initiatives:** Promote telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits. This could involve providing internet access and technology support to residents.
5. **Healthcare Facility Expansion:** Explore the possibility of establishing satellite clinics or mobile healthcare units in Cofield to provide basic healthcare services closer to residents.
6. **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources. This could involve partnering with local community centers and healthcare providers to provide information sessions and outreach programs.

**Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in Cofield requires a multifaceted approach. By addressing the transportation challenges, promoting telehealth, and supporting the expansion of healthcare services, the community can significantly improve its "Overall Health Score" and enhance the well-being of its residents. The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring this access is a critical responsibility for the community and its leaders. Investing in transportation and healthcare infrastructure is an investment in the health and future of Cofield. For those considering moving to Cofield, understanding these factors is paramount in making an informed decision about their healthcare needs.