27983, Windsor, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27983, Windsor, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.97 percent of residents in 27983 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Bertie Hospital with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Windsor, NC (ZIP Code 27983)

Windsor, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of Bertie County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. Its rural character shapes the very fabric of daily life, influencing everything from grocery shopping to, crucially, accessing medical care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 27983, provides an “Overall Health Score” by evaluating the multifaceted nature of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. For anyone considering moving to Windsor, this information is vital.

The score considers several key factors: drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each facet contributes to the overall picture, painting a nuanced portrait of the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking medical attention. A higher score indicates better healthcare accessibility, reflecting shorter travel times, more convenient transportation options, and readily available support services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Windsor is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The vast majority of residents rely on driving to reach healthcare facilities. This reliance underscores the importance of understanding drive times and the condition of the roadways.

The nearest significant healthcare hub is Vidant Bertie Hospital, located in Windsor itself. Reaching this facility is generally straightforward for residents of 27983, with drive times typically under 10 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. This proximity significantly contributes to a positive aspect of the overall health score.

However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Greenville or Elizabeth City. Accessing Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, involves navigating US-17 South, a major thoroughfare. Drive times can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Greenville. This journey, while manageable, introduces a time commitment that can be a barrier for those with mobility issues or urgent medical needs.

Traveling to Elizabeth City, another potential healthcare destination, requires navigating US-17 North. The drive time is similar to Greenville, approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Road conditions are generally good, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours. The reliance on these major highways, while providing access, also highlights the vulnerability of residents to traffic delays and the limitations imposed by vehicle ownership.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transportation options in Windsor are limited. The Bertie County Transportation system provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while available, is not a readily accessible option for spontaneous medical needs. It operates on a limited schedule and may not be available for all appointments.

The lack of a robust public transit system poses a significant challenge, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of fixed-route buses or frequent service significantly impacts the overall health score, creating a considerable hurdle in accessing healthcare.

The Bertie County Transportation system does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling requirements and limited service area still present a challenge. The system serves a vital role for some, but its limited scope cannot fully address the transportation needs of the community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas surrounding Windsor, but their presence within the town itself is inconsistent. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times can be lengthy, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This uncertainty makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit.

Ambulance services are readily available in Windsor for emergency situations. However, the cost of ambulance transport can be a significant financial burden for some residents.

NEMT services, which transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are also available. Several providers operate in the area, offering services to individuals covered by Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance. These services can be a lifeline for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions. However, availability and scheduling can still be a challenge, and advance booking is usually required.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 27983 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Vidant Bertie Hospital provides a significant advantage, the limited public transit options, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care create challenges.

The drive times to Greenville and Elizabeth City, while manageable, can be a barrier for some. The lack of readily available public transportation, particularly for spontaneous medical needs, is a significant drawback. The reliance on ride-sharing, which is often unreliable, further exacerbates the issue.

Medical transport services, including ambulance and NEMT, provide crucial support. However, the costs associated with these services and the need for advance booking can pose obstacles.

For those considering moving to Windsor, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. The availability of a personal vehicle is paramount. The ability to plan and schedule transportation in advance is also crucial.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Windsor, NC (27983) is moderate. While the local hospital provides accessible care, the limitations in transportation options necessitate careful planning and consideration for accessing specialized medical services. Improvements in public transit, expanded ride-sharing availability, and increased support for medical transport services would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve healthcare access for all residents. This is a critical factor to consider when evaluating the quality of life in Windsor.