28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.90 percent of residents in 28442 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 5.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28442 (Hallsboro, NC)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 28442 (Hallsboro, NC), specifically focusing on transportation options to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those living in this rural community. For individuals **moving to Hallsboro**, this assessment is crucial for understanding the practical realities of receiving timely medical care.

The Overall Health Score for 28442 is significantly influenced by its rural setting. Hallsboro, nestled within Columbus County, is characterized by vast distances and limited public transportation infrastructure. This geographical reality presents considerable challenges to residents seeking healthcare, particularly those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. The score reflects these inherent difficulties, offering a nuanced perspective on the available resources.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 28442 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel along specific roadways. The most direct route to Columbus Regional Healthcare in Whiteville, the closest hospital, involves navigating primarily on NC-74/76. This drive typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Hallsboro.

Further travel is often required for specialized care. Wilmington, approximately an hour's drive via US-74 East and US-76 East, houses New Hanover Regional Medical Center, a larger facility offering a broader range of services. Reaching larger medical centers in Fayetteville, approximately a 1.5-hour drive via US-74 West, is another option. These longer distances significantly impact the Overall Health Score, especially considering emergency situations.

The condition of these roadways is also a factor. While NC-74/76 and US-74 are generally well-maintained, rural roads can be subject to weather-related closures or delays. The time it takes to travel these roads, especially during peak hours or adverse weather, can be a significant barrier to accessing timely medical care. This is a key consideration for anyone **moving to Hallsboro**.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in 28442 are severely limited. Columbus County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The absence of regular routes means that residents without personal transportation are highly dependent on informal arrangements, such as relying on family, friends, or neighbors for rides to medical appointments. This lack of infrastructure severely impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those with limited mobility, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

The absence of a robust public transit system also impacts healthcare access for low-income individuals. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle can be prohibitive, and the lack of alternative transportation options creates a significant barrier to receiving necessary medical care. The lack of ADA-compliant transportation further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in 28442 is sporadic. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for those with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, it is not a consistently reliable option for healthcare access in this area.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in providing healthcare access for residents of 28442. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, ensuring that individuals can receive immediate medical attention. However, the response time of these services can be affected by the distance to the nearest hospital and the condition of the roads.

NEMT providers, such as local private companies and sometimes Medicaid-approved transportation services, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or do not have access to other transportation options. The availability, cost, and reliability of NEMT services are significant factors in the Overall Health Score.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed above, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 28442 is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create considerable challenges for residents seeking medical care.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Advocate for Improved Public Transportation:** The most significant improvement would be the establishment of a public transportation system that serves Columbus County, including routes to medical facilities in Whiteville and Wilmington. This system should include ADA-compliant vehicles and consider the needs of the elderly and individuals with disabilities.
2. **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Efforts should be made to increase the availability of ride-sharing services in the area, particularly during off-peak hours. Furthermore, the expansion and promotion of NEMT services are crucial for ensuring that individuals can access non-emergency medical appointments.
3. **Community Education and Awareness:** Educate residents about available transportation options, including ride-sharing services, NEMT providers, and any existing programs that offer transportation assistance.
4. **Telehealth Initiatives:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and follow-up care. This can significantly improve healthcare access for residents in rural areas.
5. **Collaboration and Partnerships:** Foster partnerships between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to address transportation challenges and improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and the transportation infrastructure in 28442 presents significant challenges to residents seeking medical care. While the area has some resources, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to access. Improving healthcare access is a multifaceted issue that requires a concerted effort from local government, healthcare providers, and the community. For those **moving to Hallsboro**, understanding these limitations is crucial for planning and ensuring their healthcare needs can be met. By implementing the recommendations outlined above, the community can work towards improving the Overall Health Score and ensuring that all residents have access to the medical care they need.