28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.49 percent of residents in 28425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425)

The pursuit of optimal health is a complex journey, intricately woven with the fabric of daily life. For residents of Burgaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28425), this journey is significantly shaped by the accessibility of healthcare services. This comprehensive analysis delves into the "Overall Health Score" for this area, meticulously examining the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, offering valuable insights for those considering moving to Burgaw and existing residents alike.

The health score is not merely a number; it is a reflection of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. Factors considered include drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities within the context of healthcare access in Burgaw.

Burgaw, a charming town nestled in Pender County, presents a unique set of transportation dynamics. The primary arteries for vehicular movement are US Highway 117 and US Highway 17, the latter being a major north-south thoroughfare. These roads, while offering relatively direct routes to Wilmington and Jacksonville, the closest cities with comprehensive medical facilities, can experience congestion during peak hours. Smaller roads, such as NC Highway 53 and NC Highway 210, provide alternative routes, but they may be less direct and potentially slower, particularly for those unfamiliar with the area.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the health score. The closest hospital, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Burgaw itself offer immediate care, but specialized services often necessitate a trip to Wilmington or Jacksonville. The distance to Jacksonville, home to Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, is comparable, usually taking between 45 minutes to an hour.

Public transportation in Burgaw, unfortunately, presents a significant challenge. The availability of public transit is limited, with no fixed-route bus services operating directly within the town. This absence restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This lack of public transportation severely impacts the overall health score, as it creates a barrier for those who cannot drive or afford other transportation options.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Burgaw, though their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, potentially impacting their ability to attend routine appointments or access urgent care. The availability of these services is also not guaranteed, which can create anxiety for those reliant on them.

Medical transportation services are a crucial component of the healthcare ecosystem, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several medical transport companies serve the Burgaw area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. Specialized services for those with disabilities are often available, but availability can be limited.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of transportation options are vital. While ride-sharing services are generally not ADA-compliant, medical transport companies often provide vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The lack of public transit, however, leaves a significant gap in ADA-accessible transportation options, further impacting the health score for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425) is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While the town offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities via car, the limitations of public transportation and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services present significant hurdles. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for those with specific needs, but the cost and booking requirements can be barriers.

The score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within Burgaw itself. The presence of local clinics and urgent care facilities improves the score, offering immediate care for common ailments. However, the need to travel to Wilmington or Jacksonville for specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced imaging, can significantly impact the overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Burgaw, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully consider the limitations of the existing infrastructure. While Burgaw offers a charming lifestyle, the healthcare access landscape presents certain challenges.

The health score for Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425) can be improved through several initiatives. Expanding public transportation options, including fixed-route bus services, would significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also alleviate the financial burden on some residents.

Investing in ADA-compliant transportation options is critical to ensuring equal access to healthcare for individuals with disabilities. Promoting the availability and affordability of medical transport services is also essential. Encouraging the establishment of specialized medical services within Burgaw would reduce the need for long-distance travel, further improving the overall health score.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the town offers reasonable access to healthcare via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the inconsistencies of ride-sharing, and the need for specialized services in nearby cities present significant challenges. Understanding these nuances is essential for both current residents and those considering moving to Burgaw, ensuring that healthcare access is a key consideration in the pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling life. The ongoing development of transportation solutions and the expansion of healthcare services will be critical to improving the overall health score for Burgaw residents.