28314, Fayetteville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28314, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.99 percent of residents in 28314 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a distance of 4.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28314

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when considering a move to a new area. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 28314, focusing on the crucial element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

The Overall Health Score for 28314 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area boasts a relatively accessible location, the reality of navigating transportation to medical facilities presents both advantages and disadvantages. Proximity to major roadways facilitates car travel, yet public transit options are limited, potentially impacting individuals with mobility issues or those without personal vehicles. This write-up considers these factors to arrive at a comprehensive assessment.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around 28314 are Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south corridor, and US Highway 401 (US-401), which intersects I-95 and provides access to various points within Fayetteville. Other key roads include All American Freeway, Ramsey Street, and Cliffdale Road. These thoroughfares determine drive times to essential healthcare providers.

For residents in the eastern portion of 28314, accessing Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major regional hospital, typically involves a drive of 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey often utilizes All American Freeway and US-401. Travel to smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout the city can vary from 5 to 15 minutes, contingent on location and traffic conditions. Residents in the western sections might face slightly longer commutes, potentially extending the drive to Cape Fear Valley to 25 minutes.

Navigating Fayetteville's roadways during peak hours can be challenging. Congestion, particularly on All American Freeway and near major intersections, can significantly increase travel times. This reality underscores the importance of considering commute times when scheduling appointments and planning healthcare access. The ability to quickly reach medical care is a critical component of overall health and well-being, making drive times a significant factor in our assessment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides public transportation within the city. FAST operates a network of bus routes, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, some of which serve areas within and near 28314. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes are limited, and the system's reach to healthcare facilities can be inconsistent.

For individuals relying on public transit, accessing Cape Fear Valley Medical Center may involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, potentially exceeding 45 minutes or even an hour depending on the route and schedule. While FAST strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the overall practicality of using public transit for healthcare appointments remains a significant challenge for many residents of 28314. The limited reach of public transportation significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those without alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering a more convenient option than public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or those requiring longer distances.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for healthcare appointments also exist. Companies like First Transit and CareRide offer specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring safe and comfortable travel. While these services enhance healthcare access, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services improves the Overall Health Score by providing additional options. However, the financial implications and potential for limited availability can still pose challenges for some residents.

**Overall Health Score: Weighing the Factors**

Considering the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 28314 is moderate. The area benefits from its proximity to major roadways, facilitating relatively quick drive times for many residents. However, the limitations of public transit, coupled with the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport, create challenges.

The Overall Health Score is not static. It is influenced by individual circumstances. For those with personal vehicles and the ability to drive, healthcare access is generally good. For those relying on public transit or facing mobility limitations, the score is significantly lower.

When moving to Fayetteville, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and how those needs align with the available options. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on their individual circumstances is crucial. Understanding the realities of transportation is a critical step in making an informed decision.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance the Overall Health Score, several improvements could be considered. Increasing the frequency and reach of FAST bus routes, particularly to healthcare facilities, would significantly benefit residents. Expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing options or subsidized medical transportation programs would also improve healthcare access.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of existing transportation resources and educating residents on how to navigate the available options is essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations can lead to innovative solutions that enhance healthcare access for all residents of 28314.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where healthcare access is not a barrier but a readily available resource for all. This requires a continuous effort to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents can easily reach the medical care they need. The Overall Health Score reflects the current state of affairs, providing a baseline for future improvements and a clear picture for those considering moving to Fayetteville.