27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.33 percent of residents in 27948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc with a distance of 6.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Kill Devil Hills (ZIP Code 27948)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27948), necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This evaluation hinges on the critical factor of transportation, examining the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This includes drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. Understanding these elements paints a comprehensive picture of healthcare access, a pivotal consideration for anyone moving to Kill Devil Hills.

The primary mode of transportation in Kill Devil Hills and the surrounding Outer Banks region is the personal vehicle. The town is relatively small, but healthcare access is often determined by the availability of specialized services, which may necessitate travel to larger towns or cities. Drive times are thus a significant factor.

The main thoroughfare through Kill Devil Hills is **US-158**, also known as the Croatan Highway. This road provides access to local businesses and residential areas. Driving to the Outer Banks Hospital, located within Kill Devil Hills, is generally straightforward, with most residents enjoying a commute of less than 15 minutes. However, accessing specialized care might require travel.

For more specialized care, residents often travel north on **US-158** towards Kitty Hawk and Southern Shores, or south towards Nags Head and Manteo. Travel times to these towns, where additional medical practices and specialists are located, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak tourist seasons, these times can significantly increase, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Beyond US-158, **NC-12**, the scenic coastal highway, offers an alternative route, though it is less direct and can be subject to closures during inclement weather. This route is particularly relevant for those living along the oceanfront.

Public transportation options in Kill Devil Hills are limited. The Dare County Transportation System provides a form of public transit, offering fixed-route services and demand-response options. However, these services are primarily designed for general mobility rather than specifically tailored to healthcare access. The fixed routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, and the demand-response services require advance booking, which may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. Information regarding ADA accessibility is available through the Dare County Transportation System.

The lack of extensive public transportation presents a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly seniors, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This limitation directly impacts the overall health score, highlighting a potential barrier to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Kill Devil Hills. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for those with limited financial resources, potentially making healthcare less affordable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several providers operate in the Outer Banks region, offering services for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services often require pre-booking and may involve associated costs.

The availability and affordability of medical transportation services are crucial for ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations. These services can bridge the gap created by the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services.

The overall health score for Kill Devil Hills, regarding healthcare access, is influenced by several factors. While the Outer Banks Hospital provides essential services, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel. Drive times, while generally manageable, can be affected by seasonal traffic. The limited public transportation options and the potential inconsistency of ride-sharing services pose challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a vital lifeline, but their cost and the requirement for pre-booking must be considered. The overall health score reflects a balance between the local availability of basic healthcare and the potential barriers to accessing specialized care.

For individuals moving to Kill Devil Hills, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. While the town offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the practicality of healthcare access should be carefully evaluated. Researching the location of medical specialists, assessing potential commute times, and exploring available transportation options are essential steps in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health.

The health score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents' well-being. Continuous efforts to improve public transportation, promote ride-sharing accessibility, and ensure the availability of affordable medical transportation services are vital for enhancing the overall health score of Kill Devil Hills and creating a healthier community for all.