28341, Faison, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28341, Faison, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.76 percent of residents in 28341 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sampson Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Faison, NC (ZIP Code 28341)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and for residents of Faison, North Carolina (ZIP code 28341), the journey to receive care is a significant factor. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the accessibility of healthcare facilities, encompassing transportation options, drive times, and available services, offering insights for individuals considering moving to Faison.

The score reflects the ease with which residents can access necessary medical attention, factoring in the challenges and advantages unique to this rural community. It's a comprehensive evaluation, considering the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare accessibility landscape within the ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Faison is the personal vehicle. This reality significantly influences the Overall Health Score. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, but the distance to comprehensive medical facilities can be a challenge.

Primary access points include US Highway 117, which serves as a crucial north-south artery, connecting Faison to Goldsboro in the north and Wallace in the south. Travel times along US-117 are generally predictable, with traffic flow typically moderate. However, the speed limit and the road’s two-lane configuration can extend travel times.

Interstate 40, a major east-west thoroughfare, is accessible via US-117. This provides quicker access to larger medical centers in Wilmington (east) and Raleigh (west). However, these trips require a greater time commitment, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with urgent needs.

Smaller roads, such as NC Highway 50, offer alternative routes, but they are often winding and may lack the infrastructure to handle emergency situations efficiently. These secondary routes also contribute to longer travel times. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can further complicate access.

The drive time to the nearest hospital, Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the starting point within Faison and traffic conditions. This proximity is a significant advantage, offering a relatively quick response time in case of emergencies. However, specialized care may necessitate longer drives.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Role**

Public transportation options in Faison are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Duplin County Transportation System offers demand-response services, but these are often characterized by longer wait times and require advance scheduling.

The Duplin County Transportation System provides curb-to-curb service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While ADA-compliant vehicles are available, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking can make it difficult to access urgent care or scheduled appointments. The lack of fixed-route public transit significantly impacts the Overall Health Score.

The availability of public transportation for healthcare access is a crucial consideration, particularly for those who are unable to drive. The limited options in Faison necessitate a reliance on alternative transportation methods, which can add to the complexity and cost of accessing healthcare.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and response times can vary significantly, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This makes them a less reliable option for immediate healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like FirstMed Transport and MedStar Medical Transportation operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including ambulatory and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is a critical factor in mitigating the challenges posed by limited public transportation and the dependence on personal vehicles. These services offer an alternative for those who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Specialization**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Faison itself is limited. The town primarily relies on primary care physicians and outpatient clinics. For specialized care, residents must travel to larger cities like Clinton, Goldsboro, or Wilmington.

Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized clinics. Wayne UNC Health Care in Goldsboro provides a wider array of services, including advanced medical specialties. New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington offers the most comprehensive healthcare options in the region.

The distance to these facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized care. The need to travel for specialized care impacts the Overall Health Score.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Faison, NC (ZIP code 28341) is moderate. The town benefits from its proximity to Sampson Regional Medical Center and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. However, the limited public transportation options and the dependence on personal vehicles pose significant challenges.

The score is influenced by the drive times to specialized medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the score. The score also reflects the availability of healthcare providers within Faison itself.

For individuals considering moving to Faison, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for longer travel times to access specialized care should be carefully considered.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize personal vehicle ownership or access to reliable transportation.**
* **Explore medical transportation options and pre-book appointments as needed.**
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence.**
* **Advocate for improved public transportation services within the county.**
* **Research the availability of telehealth services to reduce the need for travel.**

The Overall Health Score is intended to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access in Faison, enabling residents and prospective movers to make informed decisions. The score is dynamic and can change with improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. The journey to healthcare is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and understanding the landscape is crucial for a healthy life in Faison.