28444, Harrells, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28444, Harrells, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.23 percent of residents in 28444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley-Bladen County Hospital with a distance of 19.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28444 (Harrells, NC)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and in the rural reaches of ZIP Code 28444, encompassing the town of Harrells, North Carolina, the journey to receive medical attention presents a unique set of challenges. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the intricacies of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents. It's a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Harrells, seeking to understand the realities of their health needs.

The "Overall Health Score" is derived from a comprehensive evaluation of factors impacting healthcare access, including drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. Each element is weighed to provide a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Harrells is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The area's rural nature dictates that residents rely heavily on driving to reach healthcare facilities. The most direct routes to access medical services often involve navigating a network of state highways and local roads.

For residents seeking immediate care, Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton, approximately 15 miles away, is a crucial destination. The journey typically involves traveling on NC-411 South, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. The drive time averages between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code.

Other healthcare providers, such as specialists or larger hospitals, may necessitate longer drives. Wilmington, a regional hub with a wider array of medical services, is roughly 60 miles east. The most common route involves taking NC-411 South to I-40 East, a major interstate highway. The drive can take upwards of an hour and a half, potentially longer during rush hour or due to unforeseen delays.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but some local roads may have limited shoulders or uneven surfaces. This can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those unfamiliar with rural driving conditions. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential impact of transportation costs on healthcare access.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 28444 are exceedingly limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare facilities. This scarcity presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who are unable to drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While there are no fixed-route bus services directly serving Harrells, residents may explore options for accessing transportation to nearby towns or cities. However, these options often require a combination of walking, arranging for rides, or utilizing limited demand-response services.

The absence of robust public transportation highlights a critical need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access. This includes exploring the feasibility of demand-response transit systems, carpooling initiatives, or partnerships with local organizations to provide transportation assistance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have gained popularity in many areas, but their availability in Harrells is inconsistent. While these services may be accessible in nearby cities like Clinton or Wilmington, their presence within the ZIP code is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This uncertainty can make it challenging to rely on ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments or emergency situations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance.

Some prominent medical transportation providers in the area include Firstat Nursing Services, LogistiCare, and MTM (Medical Transportation Management). These companies offer a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, stretcher transport, and ambulatory services. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility for public transportation and healthcare facilities. While the absence of a comprehensive public transit system in Harrells presents challenges, healthcare providers are required to ensure their facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes providing accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms.

Medical transportation services also adhere to ADA guidelines, offering vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the availability of ADA-compliant transportation options may be limited, and advance planning is essential to ensure accessibility.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28444 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transportation, and inconsistent ride-sharing options present significant challenges.

The most pressing need is to improve transportation options to enhance healthcare access. This could involve:

* **Investing in Demand-Response Transit:** Implementing a demand-response transit system to provide transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential errands.
* **Expanding Medical Transportation Services:** Encouraging the growth of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability and availability.
* **Promoting Carpooling and Ride-Sharing Initiatives:** Facilitating carpooling programs or partnerships with ride-sharing companies to increase transportation options.
* **Enhancing Community Partnerships:** Collaborating with local organizations, such as senior centers and churches, to provide transportation assistance to those in need.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Promoting telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine appointments and follow-up care.

By addressing these transportation barriers, the community can improve the "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to healthcare services. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Harrells, as it directly impacts the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.