28363, Marston, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.77 percent of residents in 28363 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scotland Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Marston, NC (ZIP Code 28363)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for healthcare access within the Marston, North Carolina ZIP code of 28363. This score considers various factors, including transportation options, drive times, and availability of healthcare facilities. Understanding these elements is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Marston, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical services. The score aims to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses within the community.

The foundation of healthcare access in Marston lies in its transportation infrastructure. While the area boasts a rural charm, this can present challenges when it comes to reaching medical facilities. The primary roadways serving the area are US Highway 1, NC Highway 71, and several county roads. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic flow can be impacted during peak hours, particularly on US Highway 1, which serves as a major thoroughfare.

Drive times to healthcare providers are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. The closest significant healthcare facility is FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, approximately a 30-45 minute drive via US Highway 1. This drive time can be significantly affected by traffic, especially during morning and evening commutes. For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Fayetteville, which can take up to an hour via NC Highway 71 and Interstate 95. These longer travel times can pose a challenge for those needing urgent care or facing mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Marston are limited. The primary mode of public transportation is provided by the Moore County Transportation Authority (MCTA). However, the MCTA's routes are primarily designed to serve the more populated areas of Moore County, and service to Marston is infrequent. The MCTA offers some ADA-accessible vehicles, but the limited route coverage and scheduling can make it challenging for residents to rely on public transportation for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited ride-share driver availability. This factor contributes to the overall score, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. Companies like FirstHealth and other private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be a valuable resource for those with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and cost can be barriers to access, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The availability of healthcare providers within the 28363 ZIP code is another key factor. While Marston itself is a smaller community, residents can find primary care physicians and some specialists within a reasonable driving distance. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often requires travel to larger cities like Pinehurst or Fayetteville. The availability of these specialized services is crucial for providing comprehensive healthcare to the community.

The Overall Health Score is also influenced by the availability of urgent care facilities and pharmacies. The presence of these facilities ensures that residents have access to immediate medical attention and can easily obtain necessary medications. The proximity of these services can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience for residents.

When evaluating the Overall Health Score, it is also essential to consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact healthcare access. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to healthcare information can all play a role in a resident's ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Initiatives that address these social determinants of health are crucial for improving healthcare access for all residents.

The Overall Health Score for Marston, NC (ZIP Code 28363) reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from access to primary care and some specialized services within a reasonable driving distance, challenges exist in terms of transportation options. The limited public transportation, the potential for longer drive times to specialized care, and the variability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a slightly lower score. However, the availability of medical transportation services and the presence of urgent care facilities and pharmacies help to mitigate some of these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Marston, it is essential to carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. However, with careful planning and the utilization of available resources, residents can still receive the medical care they need.

The Overall Health Score for Marston, NC, is a dynamic measure. Ongoing efforts to improve public transportation, expand access to specialized care, and address socioeconomic disparities can contribute to a higher score in the future. Furthermore, the development of telehealth services and the expansion of in-home healthcare options can help to bridge the gap in healthcare access for residents of this rural community.

In conclusion, while Marston offers a desirable lifestyle for many, prospective residents must consider the transportation challenges when evaluating healthcare access. The Overall Health Score underscores the importance of understanding the local healthcare landscape and planning accordingly. The availability of healthcare providers, the accessibility of transportation options, and the presence of support services all contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community.