28342, Falcon, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.50 percent of residents in 28342 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.33 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28342 (Falcon, North Carolina)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 28342, encompassing the town of Falcon, North Carolina, hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This assessment delves into the complexities of transportation, a critical determinant of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. Understanding these facets is paramount for anyone contemplating a move to Falcon, as it directly impacts their well-being and quality of life.

Falcon, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in the realm of healthcare access. The geographical layout, characterized by dispersed populations and limited infrastructure, necessitates a thorough examination of available transportation modalities. The health score reflects the ease or difficulty with which residents can reach essential medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and emergency care facilities.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Falcon is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. Key thoroughfares such as Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, and US Highway 301, a parallel route, provide the most direct connections to larger towns and cities offering a wider array of medical services.

For residents needing routine care, the closest options are likely located in the neighboring towns of Dunn and Godwin. Reaching Dunn, a town with several medical clinics, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via US-421 and NC-27. Godwin, a smaller community, may offer limited primary care options, accessible within a 10-15 minute drive via NC-27.

More specialized care, including hospitals and specialist physicians, necessitates travel to larger urban centers like Fayetteville or Raleigh. Fayetteville, approximately 30-45 minutes away via I-95 and NC-24, houses Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a regional hospital, and numerous specialist practices. Raleigh, a larger metropolitan area, is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via I-95 and US-64, offering a vast network of hospitals, medical centers, and specialized healthcare providers.

Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Accidents or road closures on I-95 can cause substantial delays, potentially hindering timely access to medical care. The health score considers the potential for such disruptions and the availability of alternative routes, although these may add considerable travel time.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Falcon and the surrounding areas are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The availability of public transit directly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a car.

The Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a limited bus service in Cumberland County, which may offer some connections to Fayetteville. However, the routes and schedules are not designed to serve the needs of residents in Falcon effectively. The routes are infrequent, and the travel times to reach healthcare facilities in Fayetteville can be extensive, often exceeding an hour or more.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. CARTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage may still pose challenges for those needing accessible transportation to medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transportation options significantly lowers the overall health score for Falcon residents, particularly those who rely on public transit for their mobility needs. The absence of readily available and convenient public transit exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Falcon is variable. Ride-sharing services are more readily available in urban areas like Fayetteville, but their presence in Falcon may be limited, and wait times can be longer.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with potential surge pricing, can make ride-sharing an expensive option for regular medical care. The health score considers the cost-effectiveness and reliability of ride-sharing services in the area.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services, often provided by specialized companies or non-profit organizations, provide transportation with trained personnel and specialized vehicles.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including ambulance services for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments. These services are essential for those who require assistance with mobility or medical supervision during transport.

The availability and affordability of medical transport services positively impact the health score. However, the demand for these services can be high, and scheduling appointments in advance is often necessary. The health score considers the accessibility, cost, and reliability of medical transport options.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 28342 is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the availability of support services. The drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary factor, but the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services significantly affect the overall score.

The presence of medical transport services provides a vital safety net for those with mobility limitations. However, the overall health score is diminished by the limited public transit options, the potential for lengthy drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services.

For those considering moving to Falcon, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial. The health score reflects the challenges and opportunities of accessing healthcare in this rural community. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the potential need for medical transport services should be carefully considered.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Falcon residents highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport would significantly improve the health score and enhance the well-being of the community. The health score serves as a valuable indicator for potential residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in this rural North Carolina community.