28420, Ash, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.01 percent of residents in 28420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 15.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 28420 (Ash, North Carolina)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access quality healthcare. This comprehensive analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 28420 (Ash, North Carolina), examines the crucial element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We'll delve into the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This information is vital for residents and those considering moving to Ash, providing a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the local healthcare landscape.

ZIP Code 28420, a predominantly rural area, presents unique transportation challenges. The availability of healthcare services within the immediate vicinity is limited, making reliable transportation a critical factor in maintaining good health. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, with public transportation options and ride-sharing services less prevalent than in more urbanized areas. This creates a situation where healthcare access is heavily dependent on the ability to drive or secure alternative transportation.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries to Wellness**

The primary roadways serving ZIP Code 28420 are crucial for healthcare access. Residents often rely on these routes to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. The main thoroughfare, US-17, provides a direct link to larger towns like Shallotte and Wilmington, where more comprehensive healthcare facilities are located. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments.

Traveling south on US-17 leads to Shallotte, a relatively short drive, typically taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Shallotte is home to Brunswick Novant Medical Center, a critical resource for emergency care and various medical specialties. Northbound on US-17, the journey to Wilmington, a larger city with a wider array of healthcare options, can take approximately 45-60 minutes, again subject to traffic conditions. This longer drive time can be a considerable burden, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Smaller roads, such as NC-130 and NC-211, offer alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and may not be suitable for emergency situations. These roads provide access to smaller clinics and physician offices within the surrounding communities, offering some convenience for routine appointments. However, the limited availability of specialized care in these areas necessitates travel to Shallotte or Wilmington for more complex medical needs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in ZIP Code 28420 is extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Brunswick County Transit System (BCTS) provides some services, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. This lack of robust public transit options disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.

The BCTS operates on fixed routes, and riders must adhere to the scheduled times. The BCTS does provide ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible vehicles, which is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make it challenging to rely on public transportation for timely medical appointments. Residents need to plan their journeys carefully, often requiring significant lead time and potentially multiple transfers.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions to bridge the gap in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, underscores the importance of exploring ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. Ride-sharing fares can also be expensive, particularly for longer distances, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including FirstLight Home Care and Caregiver Services of Brunswick County.

These services are particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to transportation. They provide a crucial link to healthcare, ensuring that residents can attend appointments and receive necessary medical care. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services can vary, and residents should research and compare options to find the most suitable and affordable solution.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access and Moving to Ash**

The transportation challenges in ZIP Code 28420 significantly impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times can create barriers to timely medical care. These challenges can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and a decline in overall health outcomes.

For those considering moving to Ash, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the availability of healthcare services within the area. Individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility should prioritize locations with convenient access to healthcare facilities or readily available transportation options.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 28420 is influenced by these transportation factors. The limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times contribute to a lower score. However, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options can help mitigate these challenges.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve healthcare access in ZIP Code 28420, several initiatives are recommended. Expanding public transit options, including more frequent routes and extended service hours, would significantly benefit residents. Collaborations between healthcare providers and transportation services could also streamline appointment scheduling and transportation logistics.

Promoting awareness of available ride-sharing and medical transportation services is crucial. Providing financial assistance or subsidies for transportation costs could help alleviate the financial burden on low-income individuals. Furthermore, encouraging the development of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP Code 28420 is influenced by the challenges of transportation. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation, the limited public transit and the potential for long drive times create barriers to healthcare access. However, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, coupled with potential future improvements, offers hope for enhancing healthcare access and improving the overall health of the community. Understanding these factors is essential for residents and those considering moving to Ash, enabling informed decisions about healthcare and well-being.