28411, Wilmington, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.69 percent of residents in 28411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28411

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to a new area, especially when assessing the overall health and well-being of a community. This report offers a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” analysis for residents of ZIP code 28411, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. We will delve into the intricacies of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all vital components in determining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care.

ZIP code 28411, encompassing portions of Wilmington, North Carolina, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. Its location, influenced by the convergence of major roadways and proximity to coastal areas, directly impacts how residents can reach hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers. Understanding these factors is paramount for prospective residents and current inhabitants seeking to optimize their health and well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadway Considerations**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in 28411 is personal vehicles. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the existing road infrastructure and traffic patterns. The primary thoroughfares impacting healthcare access include US-17, US-74/76, and College Road.

Driving to New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the largest hospital in the area, typically involves navigating these roads. From many points within 28411, the drive time to NHRMC, located at 2131 S 17th St, can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. Congestion is common on US-17 and US-74/76, especially near major intersections and during rush hour.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the area, offering potentially shorter drive times. For instance, reaching a clinic on College Road might take only 5 to 10 minutes from certain locations within the ZIP code. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to NHRMC or other specialized facilities, increasing drive times and potentially adding stress to an already challenging situation.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Wave**

The Wilmington Wave Transit system provides public transportation options for residents of 28411. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid traffic. However, the effectiveness of public transit in accessing healthcare depends on several factors, including route frequency, accessibility features, and the proximity of bus stops to healthcare facilities.

Route 101, which runs along College Road, is a crucial route for healthcare access, as it serves several medical offices and clinics. Route 201, operating along Market Street, also provides access to some healthcare providers. The Wave Transit system strives to offer ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

The overall effectiveness of public transit for healthcare access in 28411 is moderate. While the system provides a viable option for some, the reliance on bus schedules, the potential for longer travel times, and the need to navigate transfers can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as valuable options for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services in 28411 is generally good, with relatively short wait times.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Additionally, individuals with limited mobility may require assistance getting in and out of vehicles, which ride-sharing drivers are not always equipped to provide.

Specialized medical transport services, such as Senior Ride Wilmington and Care Ride, offer tailored transportation solutions for individuals with specific needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with disabilities, those who require assistance, or those who have difficulty using other transportation options.

The availability of medical transport services in 28411 is good, but the cost can be a barrier for some. These services often require advance booking, which may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 28411 is a composite of the factors discussed above. While the area benefits from a range of transportation options, challenges remain, particularly concerning drive times, public transit limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport.

The score is impacted by the fact that the roads can be congested, and public transit may not be the most efficient option for all residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services helps to mitigate some of these challenges, but their cost and the need for advance booking can be significant.

**Recommendations for Residents**

For residents of 28411 seeking to optimize their healthcare access, several strategies are recommended. Planning appointments strategically, avoiding peak traffic hours, and utilizing ride-sharing or public transit when appropriate can significantly improve the experience. Researching the availability of healthcare providers within close proximity to their residence is also crucial.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance, exploring medical transport services is highly recommended. Familiarizing oneself with the Wave Transit system, including route maps and schedules, can also be beneficial.

**Conclusion: A Dynamic Landscape**

The landscape of healthcare access in 28411 is dynamic, influenced by evolving transportation options and the ongoing development of healthcare facilities. While challenges exist, the availability of various transportation modes and the presence of a comprehensive healthcare system provide residents with reasonable access to medical care.

The “Overall Health Score” for 28411 reflects a community working to balance the needs of its residents with the realities of transportation and healthcare infrastructure. Understanding these complexities is critical for both current residents and those considering moving to Wilmington, ensuring that they can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The continued improvement of transportation infrastructure, expansion of public transit, and the availability of affordable medical transport options will be vital in enhancing healthcare access and improving the overall health of the 28411 community.