28133, Peachland, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28133, Peachland, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.23 percent of residents in 28133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Atrium Health Anson with a distance of 10.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Peachland, NC (ZIP Code 28133)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Peachland, North Carolina (ZIP code 28133) requires a deep dive into a crucial element: **transportation** access to **healthcare**. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital medical care. For those considering **moving to Peachland**, understanding this landscape is paramount.

Peachland, nestled in Anson County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The town's rural character often translates to longer travel distances to specialized medical facilities. While the charm of small-town living is undeniable, the reality of **healthcare access** necessitates a thorough examination of available **transportation** options. This write-up offers an in-depth perspective, aiming to inform and empower residents and prospective movers alike.

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing **healthcare** in Peachland is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on driving to appointments, with the convenience of a car often outweighing other options. The major roadways influencing **healthcare access** are US-74 and NC-218. US-74, a vital east-west artery, connects Peachland to larger towns and cities, including Monroe and Charlotte, which offer a wider array of medical specialists and hospitals. NC-218 provides a north-south route, linking Peachland to Wadesboro, the Anson County seat, and its local healthcare facilities.

Drive times to **healthcare** facilities vary significantly depending on the destination. For routine primary care, residents can often reach local clinics in Wadesboro within a 15-20 minute drive via NC-218. These clinics provide essential services, including check-ups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. However, for specialized care, the journey becomes more extended.

Reaching Atrium Health Anson, the closest hospital, in Wadesboro, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. This facility offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. Access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, often necessitates travel to Monroe or Charlotte. Driving to Atrium Health Union in Monroe can take approximately 45-60 minutes via US-74, depending on traffic.

The commute to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, a major regional medical center, can extend to 1.5-2 hours, particularly during peak traffic hours. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including advanced surgical procedures and cutting-edge treatments. The drive time to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte is similar, also requiring a considerable time commitment.

The condition of the roads, particularly US-74, can impact travel times. Construction, accidents, and inclement weather can significantly increase commute times, potentially delaying access to critical medical care. Residents must factor in these variables when planning appointments, ensuring they allow ample time for travel. The availability of real-time traffic updates through apps like Google Maps or Waze is crucial for navigating these challenges.

Public **transportation** options in Peachland are limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. Anson County does not have a comprehensive public bus system that directly serves Peachland. This lack of readily available public **transportation** disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, limiting their ability to attend medical appointments.

While there is no fixed-route bus service, Anson County provides a demand-response **transportation** service, often referred to as "dial-a-ride." This service requires advance booking and operates within the county boundaries. It can be used to access medical appointments, but its availability is subject to scheduling constraints and may not always align with individual needs. The service's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial aspect, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize it. However, the limited operating hours and potential for delays can make it a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Peachland, but their reliability and affordability can vary. The availability of drivers is often lower in rural areas compared to urban centers, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares. This is particularly relevant during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and comfort. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and private ambulance services. These services are often covered by insurance, but prior authorization may be required. However, their availability can be limited, and they are primarily intended for non-emergency medical **transportation**.

The overall health score for **transportation** access to **healthcare** in Peachland is moderate, with significant challenges and limitations. While residents with personal vehicles have reasonable access to primary care and basic hospital services, specialized care requires longer travel times. The lack of robust public **transportation** and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for vulnerable populations.

For individuals **moving to Peachland**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and access to **healthcare** is essential. They should consider factors such as their health conditions, mobility limitations, and financial resources. Planning for medical appointments should include accounting for potential delays and exploring all available **transportation** options.

The future of **healthcare access** in Peachland could be improved by advocating for increased public **transportation** options, such as expanding the dial-a-ride service or exploring partnerships with regional transit authorities. Promoting telehealth services can also enhance access to care, particularly for routine consultations and follow-up appointments. Supporting initiatives that improve road infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion would also be beneficial.

In conclusion, while Peachland offers a welcoming environment, the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** require careful consideration. The **overall health score** is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. For those considering **moving to Peachland**, proactive planning and awareness of these factors are crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care.