28343, Gibson, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28343, Gibson, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.04 percent of residents in 28343 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28343 (Gibson, NC)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. In ZIP code 28343, encompassing the town of Gibson, North Carolina, this access is primarily defined by the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up provides an assessment of the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, culminating in an overall health score for the community. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care.

Gibson, a small town nestled in Scotland County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. The rural nature of the area necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. This dependence on private transportation underscores the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable drive times to medical facilities. The overall health score will reflect the ease or difficulty with which residents can reach necessary healthcare services, considering the available transportation options.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary arteries for navigating the region are the well-traveled highways and county roads. Interstate 74 (I-74), a major east-west thoroughfare, offers a relatively swift route to larger medical centers in nearby cities. However, the proximity of I-74 does not necessarily translate to immediate healthcare access for all residents. The drive time to larger hospitals in Laurinburg, approximately 15 miles away, can take between 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Gibson.

Traveling south on US Highway 401, another crucial route, provides access to healthcare facilities in the region. This road is often less congested than I-74, but it can also be slower due to the presence of traffic lights and lower speed limits. County Road 1502, and County Road 1500 serve as vital connectors within Gibson and to surrounding areas, offering alternative routes, but they are often narrower and may be subject to potholes and other road hazards.

The condition of these roads directly impacts the health of the community. Poor road maintenance can lead to delays, increasing the time it takes to reach medical appointments, and potentially exacerbating health conditions. The overall health score must reflect the accessibility of these routes and their impact on the well-being of the residents of Gibson.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Gibson is limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Scotland County Transit provides some service, but it is primarily a demand-response system. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, which can be challenging for urgent medical needs. The service may have limited operating hours and may not cover all areas within the ZIP code.

The lack of readily available public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. While Scotland County Transit aims to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the limited frequency and routing options can still pose significant challenges. The overall health score must consider the shortcomings of the public transit system in meeting the healthcare needs of the community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability in Gibson can be inconsistent. The rural nature of the area and the relatively low population density may result in longer wait times and higher fares compared to more urban areas. This can make ride-sharing an expensive and unreliable option for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Scotland County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provides ambulance services. NEMT services, which typically cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves but do not require emergency care, are also available, but their availability and coverage area may be limited. The overall health score will reflect the availability and affordability of these critical services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 28343 must consider several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration. The availability and reliability of public transportation and ride-sharing services are also crucial. The presence of medical transport options, including ambulance and NEMT services, is essential for ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access care.

Furthermore, the cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fares, can significantly impact healthcare access, especially for low-income residents. The overall health score must reflect the financial burden associated with transportation. The physical condition of roads and the availability of ADA-accessible transportation options also play a vital role in determining the score.

**Moving to Gibson and Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Gibson, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. While the town offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the limited transportation options can present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and assess their ability to access medical care. Researching the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options is essential.

The overall health score will serve as a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing a clear understanding of the healthcare access situation. It will help them make informed decisions about their relocation, ensuring they can meet their healthcare needs effectively.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion**

Considering the factors discussed, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 28343 is moderate. While the proximity to I-74 offers relatively quick access to larger medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the overall score reflects the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and accessibility to ensure that all residents can easily access the healthcare they need. A higher score would be achievable with enhanced public transit, improved road conditions, and greater availability of affordable ride-sharing options. This score provides a starting point for community efforts to improve healthcare access and ultimately enhance the overall health and well-being of the residents of Gibson.