28451, Leland, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28451, Leland, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.33 percent of residents in 28451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Leland, NC (ZIP Code 28451)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Leland, North Carolina (ZIP code 28451) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare. This evaluation considers the multifaceted nature of transportation, a crucial determinant of healthcare access, encompassing drive times, public transit, and alternative mobility options. The analysis will paint a vivid picture for anyone considering moving to Leland, offering insights into the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services.

Leland's location, nestled in Brunswick County, presents both advantages and challenges regarding healthcare access. Proximity to Wilmington, a regional healthcare hub, offers a wide array of medical specialties and facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for most residents, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, significantly impacts the overall health score.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary factor. The primary thoroughfare connecting Leland to Wilmington is **US-17**, a major highway that can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. Reaching New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), the largest hospital in the area, typically takes 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or longer during rush hour or due to accidents. Other medical facilities in Wilmington, such as specialty clinics and urgent care centers, also require navigating US-17, adding to the overall commute time.

Alternative routes exist, including **NC-133** and various local roads. However, these routes are often slower and less direct, adding to the travel time. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact accessibility. The reliance on personal vehicles emphasizes the importance of car ownership for healthcare access in Leland.

Public transportation options within Leland and to Wilmington are limited. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) provides some bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and primarily serve the greater Brunswick County area. The BCTS does not offer direct, frequent service to Wilmington's major healthcare facilities. This limits the options for those without personal vehicles or those who are unable to drive.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on BCTS buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While the BCTS strives to provide accessible transportation, the limited frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times can pose significant challenges. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the overall health score, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area. However, their reliability and affordability can vary. During peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, wait times can be long, and fares can be expensive. This can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another option. Companies like MedTrans and others provide specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, and may require advance booking. The availability and affordability of these services are vital for those with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Leland is moderately impacted by the available transportation options. While Wilmington offers a robust healthcare infrastructure, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some alternatives, but their cost and reliability can be a concern.

For those considering moving to Leland, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities. Proximity to healthcare facilities within Leland itself is limited, further increasing the reliance on transportation to Wilmington.

The future of healthcare access in Leland hinges on several factors. Improvements to public transit, including increased frequency and expanded routes, would significantly enhance the overall health score. Investments in infrastructure, such as road widening and traffic management systems, could reduce commute times and improve the flow of traffic. Encouraging the development of healthcare facilities within Leland would also alleviate the burden on residents and improve healthcare access.

Furthermore, initiatives that promote affordable ride-sharing options or subsidized medical transport services could help bridge the gap for those with limited financial resources. Community partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation providers could also enhance access to care.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Leland is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. While the current situation presents some challenges, ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare services can positively impact the health and well-being of Leland residents. The availability of healthcare access is a critical component of a healthy community, and the future of Leland hinges on the ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access for all its residents.