28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.95 percent of residents in 28392 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 12.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28392

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for healthcare access within ZIP Code 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina. This score considers transportation options, drive times, and availability of medical services, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Tar Heel. The goal is to paint a clear picture of healthcare accessibility, impacting overall well-being.

The health score is a composite, considering the ease of reaching medical facilities, the variety of transportation methods available, and the potential challenges faced by residents. This assessment is crucial for understanding the practicalities of maintaining good health within this community.

ZIP Code 28392, a rural area in Bladen County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles, emphasizing the importance of understanding drive times and road conditions. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services may be less prevalent than in more urban settings.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities in and around Tar Heel involves navigating the roadways. The primary artery is **NC-87**, which stretches north and south, connecting the community to larger towns and cities. Drive times to nearby medical facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

For routine check-ups and general medical needs, residents often travel to Elizabethtown, the county seat. The drive to Elizabethtown from Tar Heel primarily utilizes **NC-87** and typically takes around 15-20 minutes, covering approximately 10-12 miles. This short commute is a significant advantage for residents seeking primary care.

Specialized healthcare services, such as those offered by specialists or hospitals, may necessitate longer journeys. The nearest major hospital, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, is located in Fayetteville. The drive to Fayetteville from Tar Heel primarily utilizes **NC-87** and **I-95** and can take approximately 45-60 minutes, covering a distance of roughly 40-45 miles. This longer commute can be a significant factor for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent care.

Other routes involve secondary roads like **NC-211**, which can provide alternate access to towns and healthcare facilities. However, these roads are often less maintained and can add to travel time, particularly during inclement weather.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 28392 are limited. Bladen County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are designed to serve the entire county, not necessarily providing frequent or convenient access to healthcare facilities specifically within Tar Heel.

The public transit system, while offering a lifeline for some, may not meet the needs of all residents. The schedules are often fixed, and the routes may not directly serve medical facilities. This can require multiple transfers or extended travel times, posing a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing prompt medical attention.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on the public transit buses are essential, ensuring accessibility for all riders. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage can still restrict healthcare access for many.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence may be less consistent than in more populated regions. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. This reliance on ride-sharing can be unreliable for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to transportation. However, these services may have associated costs, which can be a barrier for some residents.

**Healthcare Access and Availability**

The availability of healthcare facilities within and near ZIP Code 28392 is a critical factor in the overall health score. While Elizabethtown offers primary care physicians and some specialized services, residents may need to travel to Fayetteville or other larger cities for more advanced care.

The distance to specialists, hospitals, and emergency services significantly impacts healthcare access. The longer commute times to these facilities can delay treatment and negatively affect health outcomes, particularly in emergency situations.

The presence of community health centers and clinics in the area can help bridge the gap in healthcare access, providing affordable and accessible care to underserved populations. These facilities often offer a range of services, including primary care, preventative care, and chronic disease management.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28392 is influenced by several interconnected factors. Drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the proximity of healthcare providers all contribute to the final assessment.

The rural nature of the area presents both challenges and opportunities. The relatively short commute to Elizabethtown is a positive factor, while the longer drive to Fayetteville and the limited public transit options pose challenges.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28392 is moderate. The proximity of Elizabethtown and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer some advantages. However, the limited public transit options and the longer drive times to specialized medical facilities in Fayetteville create some disadvantages.

For individuals considering moving to Tar Heel, understanding these factors is crucial. While the area offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, residents should be aware of the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare. Planning for transportation needs, exploring available resources, and considering the proximity of healthcare facilities are essential steps in ensuring good health and well-being within this community. The future of healthcare access in the area may involve increased investment in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of telehealth options to improve the overall health score.