27923, Coinjock, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27923, Coinjock, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.68 percent of residents in 27923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 17.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Coinjock, NC (ZIP Code 27923)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Coinjock, North Carolina, nestled within the 27923 ZIP code, the reality of healthcare access is a complex tapestry woven with threads of geography, transportation infrastructure, and available services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," considering the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that shape the journey to care for those moving to Coinjock.

Coinjock, a charming village, boasts a tranquil atmosphere, yet its rural setting presents significant hurdles when it comes to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Elizabeth City, approximately a 30-minute drive away, or in the opposite direction, in the Outer Banks, which can be a 45-minute drive or longer, depending on the destination. This reliance on personal vehicles immediately introduces a variable: the reliability and availability of transportation.

The primary arteries connecting Coinjock to healthcare services are US-158 and NC-343. US-158, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides the most direct route to Elizabeth City, home to Sentara Albemarle Medical Center. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. NC-343 offers an alternative route, often less congested, but its more circuitous path adds to the overall travel time. The condition of these roads, susceptible to weather-related disruptions, further complicates the equation.

Public transportation options in Coinjock are limited. The Albemarle Regional Transportation Authority (ARTA) operates a demand-response system, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This service, while available, may not always align with urgent medical needs or specialist appointments. The lack of fixed-route bus service, common in more urban areas, underscores the transportation gap faced by residents. Furthermore, the availability of vehicles with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is crucial for those with mobility challenges, but its consistent availability is not guaranteed.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Coinjock is not as consistent as in larger cities. Availability is subject to driver proximity and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times or the inability to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This reliance on ride-sharing, therefore, cannot be considered a reliable primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Liberty Medical Transport and others provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the area. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and can provide door-to-door assistance. However, these services often require pre-booking and can incur significant costs, potentially creating a barrier to access for those with limited financial resources.

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limitations in transportation options, directly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for Coinjock residents. The lack of readily available public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment. This situation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, impacting preventative care and the timely treatment of acute conditions.

For individuals considering moving to Coinjock, understanding these transportation challenges is paramount. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services are critical factors to consider. Residents with chronic health conditions, those with mobility limitations, and those without personal vehicles face the greatest hurdles.

The healthcare landscape in Coinjock is not solely defined by its challenges. Efforts to improve healthcare access are underway. The local medical community, including primary care physicians and specialists, plays a vital role in providing care. Telemedicine, which allows for virtual consultations, offers a promising avenue to bridge the geographical gap, providing access to healthcare services without the need for physical travel.

Furthermore, the availability of home healthcare services can bring medical care directly to the patient, reducing the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. The expansion of these services, along with community outreach programs focused on health education and preventative care, can improve the overall health of the community.

The "Overall Health Score" for Coinjock, NC (27923) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, the limited transportation options and the distance to healthcare facilities present significant challenges. Residents must carefully assess their individual needs and resources, considering the potential impact of transportation limitations on their healthcare access.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Coinjock hinges on the ability of residents to navigate the transportation landscape effectively. The availability of personal vehicles, the reliability of ride-sharing services, the accessibility of medical transport, and the expansion of telemedicine and home healthcare services all contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community. For those moving to Coinjock, careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access are essential to ensure optimal health outcomes.