28325, Calypso, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28325, Calypso, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.58 percent of residents in 28325 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 15.35 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28325

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 28325, encompassing the town of Calypso, North Carolina, is significantly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis delves into the nuances of transportation options available to residents seeking medical attention, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access for those **moving to Calypso** or already residing within its boundaries.

The primary concern for residents of 28325 is the relatively rural nature of the area, which inherently limits immediate **healthcare access**. While the town itself offers some local medical services, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Goldsboro or Kinston. This reliance on external healthcare facilities underscores the critical role of transportation in determining the overall health score for the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the commute to healthcare facilities is heavily influenced by the road network. The primary thoroughfare serving Calypso is US Highway 117, which provides a direct route north towards Goldsboro and south towards Wallace. Traveling to Wayne Memorial Hospital in Goldsboro, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 28325.

Another crucial route is NC Highway 55, which intersects with US 117 in Calypso and provides access to the east and west. This road can be used to reach healthcare facilities in Kinston, approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive away. The condition of these highways is generally good, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, especially near Goldsboro. Secondary roads, such as Calypso Road and Faison Highway, offer alternative routes but may be less direct and potentially subject to more wear and tear.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 28325 are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of readily available public transit poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This is particularly concerning for elderly residents, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals.

While there are no fixed-route buses, some counties in the region offer demand-response transportation services. These services require advance booking and may have eligibility requirements. They often provide transportation to medical appointments, but availability can be limited, and travel times may be extended due to the need to accommodate multiple passengers. The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant vehicles is a critical consideration, as it directly impacts the ability of individuals with mobility limitations to access these services.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in 28325 is variable. While these services may be present, their frequency and reliability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This reliance on ride-sharing is a significant factor for those needing **transportation** to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. Ambulance services are primarily for emergencies and are dispatched by local emergency services. NEMT services, on the other hand, are designed to transport individuals who require medical attention but do not need emergency care. These services often cater to those with mobility limitations or who are unable to drive.

Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including local and regional companies. Booking these services typically requires advance notice, and the cost can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required. The availability of these services is a crucial component of the overall health score, as they provide an essential lifeline for those who cannot access healthcare through other means. The brands offering these services, as well as their coverage areas and fees, should be investigated for anyone **moving to Calypso**.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The limited availability of **transportation** options significantly impacts the overall health score for residents of 28325. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the absence of robust public transit, creates challenges for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes.

The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the potential limitations of NEMT providers further exacerbate these challenges. The cost of medical transport, the need for advance booking, and the potential for long wait times can create significant barriers to **healthcare access**.

The distance to specialized medical facilities in Goldsboro or Kinston adds another layer of complexity. Longer travel times can be particularly burdensome for those with chronic conditions or who require frequent medical appointments. This emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of **transportation** options when assessing the overall health score.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

To improve the overall health score for 28325, several interventions are necessary. Enhancing public transit options, even in a limited capacity, could significantly improve **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations. This could involve exploring partnerships with neighboring counties to expand demand-response services or investigating the feasibility of a local shuttle service.

Promoting awareness of available ride-sharing and NEMT services is also crucial. Providing residents with information about the brands offering these services, their contact information, and their eligibility requirements can help individuals navigate the **transportation** landscape.

Addressing the affordability of medical transport is another important consideration. Exploring options for financial assistance or subsidies for NEMT services could help alleviate the burden on low-income individuals.

Finally, encouraging the development of telemedicine services and expanding the availability of telehealth appointments could help mitigate the challenges associated with long travel times. Telemedicine can provide access to healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits and improving the overall health score.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 28325 is intricately linked to the availability and accessibility of **transportation** options. While the area offers some local medical services, the reliance on external healthcare facilities in Goldsboro and Kinston necessitates a careful consideration of drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Addressing the challenges associated with **healthcare access** through targeted interventions, such as expanding public transit, promoting awareness of available services, and exploring telemedicine options, is essential to improving the overall health score for the community. This is especially crucial for those considering **moving to Calypso**, as they must understand the realities of accessing healthcare in this rural environment.