28434, Council, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28434, Council, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.63 percent of residents in 28434 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 13.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28434

This assessment delves into the intricate tapestry of healthcare access within ZIP Code 28434, a critical factor influencing the overall health and well-being of its residents. Understanding the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, is paramount in evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transportation routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' reflecting the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare within this specific geographic area. The goal is to inform residents, especially those *moving to Council*, about the practical realities of healthcare access and to highlight areas where improvements can be made.

The primary challenge in 28434, as with many rural or suburban locales, is the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. The geographical spread of healthcare facilities necessitates navigating a network of roads, with drive times significantly impacting healthcare access. The major thoroughfare, **US-17**, serves as the spine of the region, providing access to Wilmington and surrounding areas. Traveling north or south on **US-17** presents the most direct route to various medical centers, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can substantially increase travel times.

Secondary roads like **NC-210** and **NC-211** offer alternative routes, though they often involve longer distances and may be less well-maintained. The condition of these roads, coupled with the potential for inclement weather, can further complicate travel, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited access to reliable vehicles. Furthermore, the availability of convenient parking at healthcare facilities is a consideration, especially in areas with high patient volumes.

Public transportation options within 28434 are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is the **Wave Transit Authority**, which operates bus routes throughout the Wilmington area. However, the coverage within 28434 is sparse, and routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The limited frequency of service and extended travel times further compound the problem.

The **Wave Transit Authority** strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the accessibility of bus stops, including the presence of ramps, adequate waiting areas, and clear signage, varies. The distance between bus stops and healthcare facilities can also be a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations. Careful consideration must be given to the practicality of utilizing public transit for healthcare appointments, especially for those requiring frequent or urgent medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in 28434 can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. Surge pricing, which occurs during periods of high demand, can further exacerbate the financial burden.

Medical transport services, such as **Care Ride** and **First Transit**, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the availability of these services may be limited, and they may require advance booking. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant factor, and insurance coverage may vary.

The 'Overall Health Score' for 28434 reflects a mixed picture. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the challenges associated with transportation significantly impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability create barriers, especially for those with mobility limitations, low incomes, or limited access to transportation.

The 'Overall Health Score' is also influenced by the distance to major healthcare facilities. The proximity to Wilmington, with its concentration of hospitals, specialist clinics, and other medical services, is a positive factor. However, the drive times to these facilities, particularly during peak traffic hours, can be substantial. This can be a significant challenge for individuals requiring urgent medical attention or those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is also a crucial consideration. The presence of ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features is essential for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access medical services. The availability of multilingual staff and translation services is also important for serving the diverse population within the area.

Improving the 'Overall Health Score' in 28434 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, including expanding bus routes and increasing service frequency, is essential. This would improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles and reduce reliance on potentially unreliable or expensive alternatives.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, can reduce drive times and improve the efficiency of transportation. This would benefit all residents, regardless of their mode of transportation.

Promoting ride-sharing and medical transport services can also play a crucial role in improving healthcare access. Providing financial assistance or subsidies for these services can help make them more affordable for low-income individuals.

Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential for addressing the transportation challenges in 28434. This includes developing coordinated transportation plans, providing patient education on available transportation options, and advocating for policy changes that support healthcare access.

For those *moving to Council*, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is paramount. Careful consideration should be given to the location of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for travel-related challenges. Proactive planning, including researching healthcare providers, identifying transportation resources, and understanding insurance coverage, can help ensure a smooth transition and facilitate access to essential medical services.

The 'Overall Health Score' for 28434 is not a static measure. It is a dynamic reflection of the community's efforts to improve healthcare access. By addressing the transportation challenges and investing in healthcare infrastructure, the community can significantly improve the health and well-being of its residents. This requires a collective commitment to creating a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and equitable for all.