28433, Clarkton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28433, Clarkton, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.47 percent of residents in 28433 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 11.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clarkton, NC (ZIP Code 28433)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Clarkton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28433), requires a deep dive into healthcare access, a critical component inextricably linked to transportation. This analysis considers the time and effort required to reach essential medical services, factoring in various transportation options available to the community. Understanding these dynamics is particularly crucial for anyone considering moving to Clarkton, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain and improve their well-being.

The primary challenge facing Clarkton residents is its rural location. This characteristic significantly influences healthcare access, primarily due to the limited availability of medical facilities within the immediate vicinity. Consequently, residents often need to travel to neighboring towns and cities to access specialized care. This reliance on transportation significantly impacts the overall health score, as longer travel times can lead to delayed treatment, increased stress, and higher costs.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in and around Clarkton is by personal vehicle. The primary roadways connecting Clarkton to healthcare facilities are US Highway 74/76 and NC Highway 211. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours or in the event of accidents.

For routine check-ups and less specialized care, residents often travel to Whiteville, approximately 15 to 20 minutes away. The drive is primarily via US-74/76, a relatively straightforward route. However, for more specialized medical needs, residents may need to travel to Wilmington, a city with a greater concentration of hospitals and specialists. This journey, primarily via US-74/76 and then US-17, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Further, the drive to Fayetteville, another option for specialized care, is approximately a 1.5-hour journey. This trip, utilizing NC-211 and US-401, requires navigating more rural roads, which may be less well-lit and potentially subject to inclement weather. The time spent on the road, coupled with the potential for unexpected delays, directly impacts the ease of healthcare access for Clarkton residents.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Clarkton are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating directly within the town. The lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to age, disability, or other limitations. This absence dramatically reduces the overall health score for these individuals, as they are forced to rely on alternative, and often less reliable, means of transportation.

While there is no local public transit, it is worth noting that the availability of public transit in nearby cities like Wilmington, although not directly serving Clarkton, could be a factor for those willing to travel to these areas. However, the lack of direct routes and the need for multiple transfers make this option impractical for many residents. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of any potential routes from nearby cities would need to be carefully considered.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarkton area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. This variable makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for consistent healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are available in the region, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, can offer transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have limited availability, potentially causing delays in accessing necessary care.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including local ambulance services and private transportation companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited, especially in emergencies.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Clarkton (28433) is moderately concerning. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the long travel times to reach specialized care significantly impact the overall score. The absence of reliable public transportation further exacerbates this issue, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides some relief, but their limitations in terms of cost, availability, and reliability diminish their overall impact. The cost of transportation, whether it be fuel, ride-sharing fees, or medical transport services, adds a financial burden to healthcare access, further impacting the overall health score.

**Considerations for Moving to Clarkton:**

For individuals considering moving to Clarkton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Those with chronic health conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the travel times and potential transportation challenges. It is essential to factor in the cost of transportation, the availability of medical transport services, and the potential for delays when making a decision.

Furthermore, prospective residents should explore the availability of telehealth services, which can help mitigate the impact of long travel times. Understanding the local healthcare landscape, including the proximity of hospitals, clinics, and specialists, is vital for ensuring adequate healthcare access. Ultimately, moving to Clarkton requires a proactive approach to healthcare planning, emphasizing the importance of transportation and its direct impact on overall well-being.