28399, White Oak, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28399, White Oak, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.42 percent of residents in 28399 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 11.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28399

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 28399, focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access via various transportation modalities. Understanding the accessibility of medical services is paramount in evaluating the overall well-being of a community, especially when considering factors like moving to White Oak. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation services, offering a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care.

The health score is a composite of several factors, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency and reliability of transportation options, and the affordability of these services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential barriers to receiving timely and appropriate medical attention. This evaluation aims to provide prospective residents and current inhabitants with a clear understanding of the landscape of healthcare access within this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around 28399 are US Highway 1 and Interstate 95. These thoroughfares provide crucial connections to surrounding towns and cities where healthcare facilities are concentrated. Driving times, therefore, significantly influence healthcare access. Residents in the heart of 28399 might find a 15-20 minute drive to the nearest urgent care facility, often located along US Highway 1.

Specialized medical needs, however, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Fayetteville or Southern Pines. These trips could extend to 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. The condition of local roads, including secondary routes like NC Highway 210, also plays a role. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and narrow lanes can increase travel times and pose safety risks, especially for individuals with mobility challenges or medical emergencies.

The impact of these factors on the overall health score is significant. Longer drive times, coupled with potential road hazards, can delay access to critical medical care, potentially exacerbating health issues and increasing stress levels for residents. The efficiency of the road network is thus a crucial component of the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 28399 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for residents who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. The primary provider of public transit in the broader area is the Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST). However, FAST's services in and around 28399 are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

Route 1, for example, might offer connections to some areas, but its schedule and frequency might not align with the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While FAST strives to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still present obstacles.

The lack of robust public transit options significantly lowers the health score, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of reliable public transportation can limit access to preventative care, specialist appointments, and emergency services, ultimately impacting overall health outcomes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation solution, but their availability and affordability can vary. In 28399, the presence of these services is generally less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as during medical emergencies, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another crucial component of healthcare access. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedTrans offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport.

The availability and cost of medical transportation services directly influence the health score. While these services provide a vital lifeline for many, their accessibility and affordability must be considered. Limited availability or high costs can create significant barriers to healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited financial resources.

**Impact of Moving to White Oak**

For individuals considering moving to White Oak (within ZIP Code 28399), understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. The location’s proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the affordability of these services should be carefully considered.

The overall health score for 28399, based on the current transportation and healthcare access landscape, might be considered moderate. While some healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services present challenges.

Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare needs of their families, assess their transportation options, and factor in the potential costs of accessing medical care. This proactive approach will help them make informed decisions about moving to White Oak and ensure they can readily access the healthcare services they require.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for access to healthcare in 28399 is affected by a confluence of factors. While the road infrastructure provides adequate access to healthcare facilities within reasonable driving distances, the limited public transit options, variable ride-sharing availability, and potential costs of medical transportation services present challenges.

The score is further influenced by the specific needs of individual residents. Those with access to personal vehicles and the financial means to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services may experience fewer barriers to healthcare access. However, individuals reliant on public transit or those with limited financial resources may face significant obstacles.

Ultimately, the overall health score for 28399 underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure and accessibility when evaluating a community's overall well-being. Addressing the limitations of public transit, promoting affordable ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation services are critical steps in improving healthcare access and enhancing the overall health of the community. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to White Oak, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.