28327, Carthage, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.16 percent of residents in 28327 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Carthage, NC (ZIP Code 28327)

The overall health score for residents of Carthage, North Carolina (ZIP code 28327), is intricately interwoven with the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those residing in this Moore County community. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Carthage, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Carthage are Highway 15-501 and US Highway 22. These roadways offer relatively straightforward access to nearby towns and cities where more extensive healthcare facilities are located. However, the rural nature of the area means that reliance on personal vehicles is significant. Traffic flow is generally manageable, but peak hours and potential accidents can extend travel times, particularly during commutes to and from work and school.

For residents seeking routine care, Carthage boasts several local options. FirstHealth Family Medicine, located within the town, provides primary care services, reducing the need for extensive travel for common ailments and preventative care. Moore Regional Hospital, a larger facility offering a broader range of specialities, is accessible via a drive along US Highway 15-501, typically taking approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Specialty care, such as cardiology, dermatology, and oncology, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. Pinehurst, approximately a 20-30 minute drive south along US Highway 15-501, houses the FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital - Pinehurst campus, offering a wide array of specialist services. Alternatively, residents may need to travel to Fayetteville, a 45-60 minute drive via US Highway 15-501 and US Highway 401, for more specialized treatments and access to larger hospitals like Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.

Public transportation options within Carthage and the surrounding areas are limited. The Moore County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides public transit services, but routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily serve essential needs. There are no fixed-route bus services that directly connect Carthage with major healthcare facilities in Pinehurst or Fayetteville. The MCTA offers demand-response services, requiring advance booking, which are available to residents of all ages and abilities. However, these services may not be readily available for urgent or emergency situations. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are incorporated into the MCTA’s fleet.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Carthage, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be problematic, as surge pricing during peak demand can make transportation costs unpredictable and potentially prohibitive. The reliability of ride-sharing services for medical appointments also hinges on the availability of drivers, which can fluctuate.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transit, offer an alternative. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and can be a more reliable option for scheduled appointments. However, costs can be significant, and the availability of these services may vary.

The overall health score for Carthage residents is, therefore, significantly influenced by the challenges and limitations of transportation. While local primary care options are available, access to specialist care often requires travel, which can be time-consuming and potentially stressful. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, creates potential barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Carthage, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is crucial. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent specialist visits should carefully evaluate the travel times and transportation options. The availability of personal vehicles and the ability to navigate longer distances are important factors to consider.

The health score is also affected by factors beyond physical transportation. The availability of telehealth services, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, the digital divide, including limited internet access in some areas, can hinder the use of telehealth for some residents.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are another critical component of healthcare access. The Moore County EMS system provides emergency response services to Carthage residents. Response times are generally good, but the distance to hospitals and the potential for traffic delays can impact the delivery of emergency care.

The local government and healthcare providers are continuously working to improve healthcare access in Carthage. Efforts to expand telehealth services, increase public transportation options, and attract more healthcare professionals to the area are underway. These initiatives, coupled with the dedication of local healthcare providers, are working to improve the overall health score for Carthage residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score in Carthage, NC (28327) is a complex equation. While local healthcare options exist, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to healthcare access. For anyone considering moving to Carthage, a careful evaluation of their healthcare needs, transportation options, and the availability of support services is essential. The community is actively working to improve these aspects, and the future holds promise for enhanced healthcare access for all residents.