28448, Kelly, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28448, Kelly, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.20 percent of residents in 28448 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbus Regional Healthcare System with a distance of 22.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28448

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 28448, encompassing the charming coastal town of Kelly, North Carolina, this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, considering commute times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options, ultimately influencing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. The analysis will paint a picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Kelly.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Kelly is the transportation network. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are US Highway 74/76, running east-west, and NC Highway 210, traversing north-south. These roadways, while offering relatively straightforward routes, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or when seasonal visitors swell the population. The condition of these roads, including their maintenance and safety features, directly impacts the safety and efficiency of travel to medical facilities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from Kelly vary depending on the specific location and the destination. The closest significant healthcare provider is New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive via US-74/76 East. This distance necessitates careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or those requiring regular appointments. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities may be found closer, potentially reducing travel time, but the availability of specialized care remains centered in Wilmington.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 28448 are limited. The primary public transit provider in the region is Wave Transit, which operates primarily in the Wilmington area. Currently, there are no direct Wave Transit routes serving Kelly. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, those unable to drive due to age or disability, and those who may not be able to afford the costs of driving.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of ride-sharing services in bridging the healthcare access gap. Uber and Lyft operate in the Wilmington area, offering a potential solution for residents of Kelly. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services are another critical component of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and, in some cases, ambulance services. These services can be invaluable for transporting patients to and from appointments, but they are often subject to scheduling constraints and may require advance booking. The availability of these services, and their coverage by insurance, are crucial factors in determining their accessibility.

Healthcare access is not merely about the distance to a facility; it's about the ability to overcome the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. For residents of Kelly, this means navigating the challenges of transportation. The availability of reliable, affordable, and accessible transportation options is paramount. This includes the efficiency of the road network, the presence or absence of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 28448 is moderate. While the primary roadways offer relatively direct routes to healthcare facilities, the lack of public transportation, the potential cost and availability limitations of ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical transport for those with mobility issues, create significant barriers. The distance to Wilmington, where the bulk of specialized medical care is located, further compounds these challenges.

Considering moving to Kelly? Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact of limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of the decision-making process. Researching local healthcare providers, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, and understanding the costs associated with transportation are crucial steps.

Furthermore, residents of Kelly should actively advocate for improvements in healthcare access. This could include supporting initiatives to expand public transit options, advocating for increased ride-sharing availability, and promoting the development of local healthcare facilities. Collaboration between local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations is essential to address the transportation challenges and improve the overall health score for the community.

The overall health score is not static; it can be improved through proactive measures. By acknowledging the transportation challenges and working collaboratively to find solutions, the residents of Kelly can create a healthier and more accessible environment for all. This will ensure that the community's health is prioritized and that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need, when they need it.