28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.00 percent of residents in 28449 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28449 (Kure Beach, NC)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Kure Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28449), focusing on the crucial element of transportation. We will examine the existing infrastructure, available options, and potential barriers, offering a comprehensive view for anyone considering moving to this coastal haven or seeking to understand the healthcare accessibility landscape.

Kure Beach, a charming coastal town, offers a unique lifestyle. However, its relative isolation presents challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The overall health score is influenced by the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, the prevalence of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries connecting Kure Beach to healthcare facilities are US-421 and NC-421. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak tourist seasons, particularly in summer. The speed limit on these roads is often 45-55 mph, and the drive to the nearest major hospital, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

The journey to smaller, specialized clinics, such as those in the Monkey Junction area of Wilmington, might take 20-30 minutes. These clinics offer a range of services, including primary care, urgent care, and specialized treatments. The drive along US-421, especially during rush hour, can become a significant time commitment, potentially impacting the promptness of medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in the Kure Beach area is provided by Wave Transit. However, the service is limited, with routes and schedules designed primarily for weekday commuters and tourists. The primary route serving Kure Beach is the WB1, which connects the town to Wilmington. The WB1 offers limited frequency, especially on weekends and evenings.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. Wave Transit strives to provide accessible buses, but the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring urgent medical care. The reliance on a single bus route for healthcare access underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Kure Beach, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. These services cater to individuals with disabilities, those recovering from surgery, or those requiring specialized medical attention.

**Medical Transport Providers:**

Several medical transport providers serve the Kure Beach area, including New Hanover County EMS for emergency situations. NEMT providers such as Senior Ride Wilmington and Coastal Medical Transport offer non-emergency transportation to medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Kure Beach, NC (28449) is moderately impacted by the limitations in transportation. While the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport offers alternatives, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present potential barriers.

The drive times to major healthcare facilities are reasonable, but traffic congestion can add significant time, particularly during peak seasons. The availability of specialized medical transport services is a positive factor, but the need for advance booking and potential costs should be considered.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Kure Beach, understanding the transportation challenges is paramount. Those reliant on public transit or with mobility limitations should carefully assess their healthcare access needs. The availability of ride-sharing services should be confirmed, and the costs associated with frequent appointments should be factored into the decision-making process.

Exploring the availability of medical transport services and establishing relationships with local providers is advisable. Residents should also stay informed about potential changes to Wave Transit routes and schedules.

**Conclusion:**

Kure Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, but healthcare access is intertwined with transportation considerations. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a community with reasonable drive times, limited public transit, and a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and plan accordingly to ensure seamless access to healthcare services. The development of enhanced public transit options, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the continued availability of medical transport are crucial for improving the overall health score of this charming coastal community and making it even more attractive for those seeking a healthy and fulfilling life. Understanding the nuances of transportation is key to a successful move to Kure Beach and a healthy future.