28398, Warsaw, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.91 percent of residents in 28398 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Warsaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28398) necessitates a deep dive into their access to healthcare, with transportation playing a pivotal role. This analysis considers various modes of travel, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing options, evaluating their efficiency, affordability, and accessibility. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease with which Warsaw residents can reach vital medical services, influencing their overall well-being and the attractiveness of the area for potential new residents considering moving to Warsaw.

The primary method of transportation for healthcare access in Warsaw is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's location, nestled in Duplin County, necessitates travel to larger medical facilities, often located in nearby cities. The most direct route to larger hospitals and specialist clinics involves navigating the network of highways and roads.

For residents seeking care at Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, a journey of approximately 10-15 minutes, the most common route is via NC-24 East. This well-maintained highway offers a relatively smooth and efficient commute. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can increase travel times, especially near intersections.

For those requiring more specialized care, the drive to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, approximately an hour away, presents a more significant challenge. The primary route involves taking NC-24 East to US-117 South, then onto I-40 East. While Interstate travel offers higher speeds, the distance and potential for traffic delays, particularly around Wilmington, can impact healthcare access.

Similarly, access to medical facilities in Jacksonville, such as the Onslow Memorial Hospital, requires a drive of around 45 minutes, typically involving NC-24 East and US-258 South. The condition of these roads, the presence of traffic lights, and the potential for accidents can all influence the time and stress associated with these commutes.

Public transportation options in Warsaw are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Currently, there is no established public bus system operating directly within Warsaw or offering routes to nearby healthcare facilities. This lack of public transportation poses a substantial barrier for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the critical importance of alternative transportation solutions. For individuals unable to drive, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft could offer a viable, albeit potentially expensive, option. However, the availability of these services in Warsaw and surrounding areas may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural locations.

The availability of medical transport services is another crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Logisticare are among the providers that may serve the Warsaw area. However, the availability of these services can vary, and it is essential to check their service areas and eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant barrier for low-income individuals.

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible transportation is paramount. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability is not guaranteed. Medical transportation providers are generally equipped with wheelchair-accessible vehicles, but the demand for these services can be high, potentially leading to delays or limited availability.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services. However, the absence of a public bus system in Warsaw means that this requirement is not currently met. This lack of ADA-compliant transportation further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing healthcare.

The overall health score for Warsaw residents, concerning healthcare access, is significantly influenced by transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of a public transit system, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services present substantial challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly those offering specialized care, can be lengthy, potentially delaying access to critical medical services. The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can also create financial barriers to healthcare access, particularly for low-income residents.

The lack of ADA-compliant transportation further disadvantages individuals with disabilities, limiting their ability to access medical appointments and other essential services. The absence of readily available public transportation, coupled with the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport, contributes to a lower overall health score for the area.

For individuals considering moving to Warsaw, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. While the town offers a close-knit community and a lower cost of living, the challenges associated with accessing medical services should be carefully considered.

The development of a public transportation system, even a limited one, would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents, particularly those without personal vehicles. Expanding ride-sharing services and increasing the availability of affordable medical transportation options would also enhance the overall health score for Warsaw.

Ultimately, improving the overall health score for Warsaw requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the transportation challenges faced by its residents. This includes investing in public transportation infrastructure, supporting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable and accessible medical transportation options. Only then can Warsaw truly provide its residents with equitable access to the healthcare they need.