28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.47 percent of residents in 28429 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28429 (Castle Hayne, NC)

This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Castle Hayne, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28429), focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access via transportation. It examines the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating moving to Castle Hayne, providing a vital component in their overall quality of life assessment.

The health score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative evaluation, considering the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation landscape. This analysis will help potential residents understand the realities of accessing healthcare within and around Castle Hayne. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities, empowering informed decisions.

Castle Hayne's location, nestled between Wilmington and Hampstead, shapes its transportation dynamics. The primary mode of personal transportation is the automobile. This reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts healthcare access. The journey to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the roadways, with drive times being a critical factor.

Driving to healthcare facilities in Wilmington, the most likely destination for specialized care, is primarily achieved via **Highway 17**. Travel times can fluctuate significantly, depending on traffic volume, especially during peak hours. A typical drive to New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the primary hospital, could range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Highway 17** also serves as the primary artery to reach various medical offices and clinics located along its corridor. This includes primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities. The condition of **Highway 17** and the secondary roads feeding into it, such as Castle Hayne Road, can impact travel times. Road maintenance and potential construction projects can add delays.

Alternatively, residents might utilize **Highway 74/76** to access healthcare facilities further south, closer to downtown Wilmington. However, this route can also be subject to congestion, particularly during rush hour. The condition of the roads and any construction projects can affect travel times.

Public transportation options within and around Castle Hayne are limited. The **Wave Transit** system, the primary public transit provider for New Hanover County, offers routes that, while providing some coverage, may not directly serve all healthcare destinations. The routes that do exist, such as Route 201, require careful planning and may involve transfers, adding significant travel time.

Wave Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the limited geographical coverage can be a barrier for those relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. Their availability, however, can vary, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost. This can be a significant factor for those on a fixed income or with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services are also available, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services, like FirstLight Home Care and Senior Helpers, often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. While these services offer a valuable solution, they typically come with a higher cost than standard transportation options.

The overall healthcare access score for Castle Hayne is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, while offering flexibility, can be hampered by traffic congestion and distance. The limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services create challenges for those without access to a personal vehicle.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable safety net for those with specific needs, but the associated costs can be a barrier. The geographical proximity to Wilmington provides access to a wide range of healthcare facilities, but the travel times and transportation challenges must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Castle Hayne, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The healthcare access score is influenced by several factors. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the immediate vicinity of Castle Hayne is a positive factor. However, the need to travel to Wilmington for specialized care and hospital services adds complexity.

The overall health score is also affected by the potential for unexpected delays due to traffic accidents or road construction. These unforeseen circumstances can disrupt travel plans and potentially lead to missed appointments.

The healthcare access in Castle Hayne is a complex issue. While the area benefits from its proximity to Wilmington and the healthcare resources it provides, the transportation challenges necessitate careful planning and consideration. This assessment highlights the need for residents to proactively address their transportation needs to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare.

The ongoing development of the area, including potential infrastructure improvements, could positively impact the healthcare access score in the future. The expansion of public transit routes, the improvement of road conditions, and the increased availability of ride-sharing services could significantly enhance healthcare accessibility for Castle Hayne residents.

For those contemplating a move to Castle Hayne, thoroughly evaluating transportation options and understanding the potential challenges is essential for making an informed decision. This comprehensive assessment provides a foundation for understanding the realities of accessing healthcare in this vibrant community. The health score serves as a reminder that transportation is a critical component of overall well-being.