28305, Fayetteville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28305, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.30 percent of residents in 28305 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 2.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28305

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare within ZIP Code 28305, Fayetteville, North Carolina. It considers various transportation options, their associated challenges, and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical services. This score is crucial for individuals considering moving to Fayetteville, evaluating their healthcare access, and understanding the transportation landscape that shapes their well-being.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. Each element contributes to a composite picture of healthcare accessibility, influencing the overall health and quality of life for residents.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Navigating Fayetteville's roadways is often the primary mode of transportation. Residents in 28305 rely heavily on personal vehicles to reach healthcare facilities. The ease of access is significantly impacted by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

Major thoroughfares like Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 401 (Raeford Road) are critical for reaching hospitals and clinics. I-95 offers a quick north-south route, while US 401 cuts east-west through the city, providing access to various medical facilities. The drive time to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major regional hospital, from different points within 28305 varies significantly based on the specific location and traffic conditions.

Smaller roads, such as Ramsey Street and Cliffdale Road, serve as vital arteries, connecting residential areas to healthcare providers. However, these roads are prone to congestion, especially during rush hour, potentially adding considerable time to the commute.

The average drive time to the nearest urgent care facility from within 28305 is approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, this time can easily double during peak commuting hours. Accessing specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, may require longer drives, potentially 30-45 minutes, depending on the clinic's location.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides public transportation within the city. FAST operates several bus routes that serve the 28305 ZIP Code, offering a potentially affordable option for those without personal vehicles.

Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3 are crucial for healthcare access, connecting residential areas to medical facilities. These routes typically run every 30-60 minutes, depending on the time of day and day of the week. However, the frequency may not always be sufficient for urgent healthcare needs.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. FAST buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating areas. However, navigating the bus system can still be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations, particularly during inclement weather.

The overall travel time via public transit is significantly longer than driving. A trip to a major hospital, which might take 20 minutes by car, could easily consume an hour or more via bus, including waiting times and transfers. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option within 28305. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a more convenient alternative to public transit.

Ride-sharing availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While ride-sharing services are generally accessible, they can be more expensive than public transit, particularly during peak hours or surge pricing.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments.

Local medical transportation providers in the Fayetteville area include companies like MedTrans and First Choice Medical Transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, particularly for individuals without insurance coverage for medical transportation.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28305 is moderate. While residents have access to multiple transportation options, each has its limitations.

Drive times can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, and public transit, while available, is often time-consuming. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be expensive. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance but are often costly and require pre-planning.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

1. **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency of bus routes, especially during peak hours and on weekends. Expand the bus network to cover areas with limited healthcare access. Improve real-time tracking and information systems to enhance user experience.
2. **Promote Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for low-income individuals and those with limited mobility.
3. **Expand Medical Transportation Options:** Increase the availability of affordable medical transportation services, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.
4. **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Address traffic congestion by improving road infrastructure, optimizing traffic flow, and implementing smart traffic management systems.
5. **Healthcare Provider Proximity:** Encourage the development of healthcare facilities in underserved areas within 28305 to reduce drive times and improve healthcare access for residents.

**Conclusion:**

Accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 28305 presents a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While residents have multiple transportation options, each has its limitations. Improving public transit, promoting ride-sharing subsidies, expanding medical transportation options, and addressing traffic congestion are critical steps to improve the "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. For those moving to Fayetteville, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.