27939, Grandy, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27939, Grandy, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.55 percent of residents in 27939 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Albemarle Medical Center with a distance of 20.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27939

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 27939, focusing on the critical factor of healthcare access. This score considers the ease and efficiency of transportation options available to reach medical facilities, from drive times to public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Grandy, North Carolina, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The health score is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment based on the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure. It highlights the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare within and around this coastal community. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the realities of healthcare access in 27939, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary concern for healthcare access in 27939 revolves around its relative isolation and reliance on personal vehicles. The community is largely rural, with limited public transportation options and a geographical spread that necessitates travel to access specialized medical services. This dependence on personal vehicles underscores the importance of understanding drive times, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions.

The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Grandy is via US-158, a major east-west artery. Traveling east on US-158 leads to Elizabeth City, the county seat and home to the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center. Drive times to this facility can vary significantly depending on traffic, but typically range from 20 to 30 minutes.

Further afield, residents may need to travel to Norfolk, Virginia, for specialized care. This journey involves navigating US-158 east to US-168 north, a major highway connecting the Outer Banks to the Hampton Roads area. This drive can be a significant undertaking, potentially taking over an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The Virginia Beach area, with its concentration of medical facilities, is also a frequent destination.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but seasonal weather events, such as hurricanes and nor'easters, can occasionally disrupt travel. Residents should always be prepared for potential delays and consider the impact of weather when planning medical appointments.

Public transportation options in 27939 are limited. The Albemarle Regional Transportation Authority (ARTA) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for healthcare access. ARTA operates fixed-route buses, but their coverage in 27939 is limited, and the frequency of service may not be sufficient for timely medical appointments.

The ARTA routes that may be relevant include Route 10, which travels through Elizabeth City, and Route 20, which provides service to Camden County. However, these routes may not directly serve medical facilities or offer convenient connections from Grandy. It is essential to check the ARTA schedule and route maps to determine the feasibility of using public transit for healthcare appointments.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for public transportation. ARTA vehicles are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times may still present challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, they may be subject to surge pricing during peak hours or when demand is high. Residents should be aware of the potential costs and availability limitations of ride-sharing when planning healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services offer varying levels of care, from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and the specific provider. Residents should research available options and compare prices to find the most appropriate and affordable solution.

For those considering moving to Grandy, careful consideration should be given to the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options may pose difficulties for individuals who do not drive or who have mobility limitations.

The distance to specialized medical facilities and the potential for long travel times should also be factored into the decision-making process. Prospective residents should research the availability of medical transport services and the accessibility of healthcare facilities before relocating.

The overall health score for 27939 is moderate. While the community benefits from access to Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional alternatives, but their cost and reliability should be carefully considered.

Residents should proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs, exploring all available options and considering the potential impact of weather and traffic. By understanding the transportation landscape and taking steps to mitigate potential challenges, residents of 27939 can enhance their healthcare access and improve their overall health and well-being.