28356, Linden, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28356, Linden, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.56 percent of residents in 28356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital with a distance of 10.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Linden, NC (ZIP Code 28356)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Linden, North Carolina, necessitates a deep dive into their ability to access healthcare. This analysis focuses on the crucial element of transportation, examining the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare in this rural community. For anyone considering **moving to Linden**, this information is critical.

The health score is not simply a number; it reflects the lived experience of accessing care. Factors like distance, traffic, and available transportation options all contribute to the overall ease or difficulty of receiving timely and appropriate medical attention. This assessment considers all these elements to provide a realistic evaluation.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Travel Times**

For many Linden residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities often involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. The primary artery is Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south thoroughfare. Accessing I-95 from Linden typically involves traveling on secondary roads such as NC-82 or NC-210, adding to the overall commute time.

Travel times to major hospitals and clinics vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The closest hospital, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, is approximately a 25-35 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This journey typically involves a combination of NC-82, US-301, and eventually, I-95.

Other healthcare options, such as specialist clinics or larger hospitals in Raleigh or Durham, require significantly longer drives. These trips can easily exceed an hour, especially during peak traffic hours. The journey to Raleigh might involve taking I-95 North and then transitioning to I-40. Durham-bound travel typically involves I-95 North to I-40 West. These longer distances pose a challenge for those with limited mobility, chronic conditions, or urgent medical needs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Linden are extremely limited. The local transit system, if any, is likely to be minimal, with infrequent routes and limited service areas. This lack of comprehensive public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of robust public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The lack of accessible routes, especially those with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, further restricts their ability to reach medical appointments. This reality underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are increasingly available in many areas, including some parts of North Carolina. However, their presence in rural communities like Linden is often less consistent and reliable. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport brands may operate in the area, including FirstMed, American Medical Response (AMR), and local private companies.

These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical supervision during transport. However, medical transport can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially longer wait times.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Linden, NC (28356) is moderately concerning. While the proximity to Fayetteville offers some convenient options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges.

The longer travel times to larger hospitals and specialist clinics, particularly in Raleigh or Durham, further complicate the situation. The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services and the potential expense of medical transport add to the difficulties.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the health score, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding public transit options, including routes that specifically serve medical facilities, would be a significant step. Ensuring these routes are ADA-compliant is essential.

Partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Promoting and increasing awareness of medical transport services and their availability is equally important.

Finally, attracting more healthcare providers, including specialists, to the Linden area would reduce the need for long-distance travel and improve **healthcare access** for residents. These improvements would significantly enhance the overall health score and make Linden a more attractive place to live, especially for those considering **moving to Linden**.