28349, Kenansville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.79 percent of residents in 28349 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 2.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28349 (Kenansville, NC)

The health of a community is intricately linked to its accessibility to healthcare. In Kenansville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28349), understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare access. It's a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Kenansville, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Kenansville is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's rural setting, characterized by open spaces and agricultural lands, dictates that driving is the dominant mode of transportation. This presents both advantages and disadvantages. The primary highway connecting Kenansville to larger population centers is **US-24**. This route provides relatively direct access to hospitals and specialist clinics in Jacksonville and New Bern, though traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times.

Furthermore, **NC-241** and **NC-41** serve as crucial arterial roads, connecting Kenansville to neighboring towns and healthcare providers. These routes, while generally less congested than US-24, are often narrow and winding, potentially increasing travel time and risk. The condition of these roads, including potholes and inadequate lighting, can further exacerbate travel challenges, particularly for those with mobility issues or during inclement weather.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the overall health score. The nearest hospital, **Vidant Duplin Hospital** in Kenansville, offers immediate care and emergency services. However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Jacksonville or New Bern. A trip to Jacksonville, approximately 30 miles away, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions on US-24. Travel to New Bern, around 60 miles distant, can extend the journey to 1.5 to 2 hours.

Public transportation options in Kenansville are limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a substantial barrier, particularly for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of readily available public transportation options underscores the need for alternative solutions to ensure equitable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles, though their availability in rural areas like Kenansville is often inconsistent. The limited presence of these services can lead to longer wait times and higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. Their reliability is also a concern, as drivers may be unavailable or unwilling to travel long distances.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including **First Transit** and **LogistiCare**, which provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. However, they can be a lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transportation.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is a crucial aspect of the health score. Ensuring that transportation options cater to individuals with disabilities is essential for promoting healthcare equity. The absence of accessible public transit and the limited availability of ADA-compliant ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for this vulnerable population.

The overall health score for transportation and healthcare access in Kenansville is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation. While the presence of Vidant Duplin Hospital provides immediate care, access to specialized services requires travel to distant locations. The lack of robust public transportation, coupled with the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, creates barriers for those without personal vehicles.

The development of a comprehensive public transportation system, including routes that connect Kenansville to major healthcare facilities, would significantly improve healthcare access. This could involve expanding existing services, introducing new routes, and ensuring ADA compliance. Furthermore, partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with healthcare access.

The integration of telehealth services could also play a crucial role in improving healthcare access in Kenansville. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialist care. Expanding telehealth infrastructure, including access to reliable internet and video conferencing equipment, would be a significant step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility.

Furthermore, community initiatives that promote carpooling and volunteer driver programs could provide additional transportation options for residents. These programs could be particularly beneficial for elderly residents and those with limited mobility. Educating residents about existing transportation resources, including medical transportation services and ride-sharing options, is essential.

The overall health score for Kenansville's healthcare access is not solely determined by transportation. Other factors, such as the availability of healthcare providers, the affordability of healthcare services, and the overall health of the population, also play a crucial role. However, transportation is a critical component, and addressing the challenges associated with healthcare access is essential for improving the overall health of the community.

For anyone considering moving to Kenansville, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and healthcare access is paramount. While the town offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the limitations in transportation can pose challenges. Careful consideration of personal transportation needs, access to specialized medical care, and the availability of alternative transportation options is essential. By proactively addressing these challenges, Kenansville can strive to create a healthier and more accessible community for all its residents.