28452, Longwood, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.15 percent of residents in 28452 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 15.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28452

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone, especially those contemplating a move. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 28452, focusing on the critical element of **transportation** and its impact on reaching medical facilities. We'll delve into the realities of getting to healthcare appointments, examining drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport. This information is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Longwood**, North Carolina, and assessing its suitability for their healthcare needs.

The "Overall Health Score" considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can access a range of healthcare services. Factors like proximity to hospitals, specialist availability, and the reliability of transportation options are all weighed. A higher score indicates better access and a lower score suggests potential challenges. This score is not a definitive judgment but a guide to understanding the practicalities of healthcare access within the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries serving 28452 are crucial for healthcare access. Residents often rely on **US Highway 74** and **US Highway 76** for travel, with these roadways providing the main routes to larger medical centers. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, time of day, and the specific destination. For example, a trip to Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia, NC, might take approximately 20-30 minutes under normal conditions, traversing a portion of US-74.

Reaching Wilmington, a major hub for specialized care, requires a longer journey. Traveling to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour or more, primarily utilizing US-74 and connecting to **US Highway 17**. This longer commute highlights the importance of considering potential travel time when scheduling appointments and planning for medical needs.

Smaller, local clinics and urgent care facilities within the immediate vicinity of 28452 offer quicker access to basic healthcare services. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, the reliance on these primary roadways becomes paramount. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also influence travel times and potentially impact the "Overall Health Score."

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in 28452 and the surrounding areas is limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) provides some services, but these are often focused on specific routes and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

BCTS operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system can be a lifeline for those unable to drive, but it requires careful planning and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. Availability can also be limited, potentially leading to delays in accessing healthcare.

The BCTS fleet includes vehicles equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited scope and scheduling requirements of the public transit system can still pose difficulties. The lack of frequent, direct routes to major medical centers is a considerable factor affecting the "Overall Health Score."

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to public transportation and personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. This can make them an unreliable option for regular healthcare appointments or for those on a limited budget.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available. These services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Brands such as Care Ride and local ambulance services provide transport to and from medical appointments. These services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, which can be a barrier for some residents.

The availability of medical transportation services contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score," providing an essential lifeline for those who cannot drive themselves. However, the cost and scheduling requirements of these services must be considered.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for 28452 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of local clinics and urgent care facilities offers immediate access to basic care, the reliance on personal vehicles or limited public transit for specialized care and emergency situations poses challenges. The longer drive times to major medical centers in Wilmington and the limitations of public transportation negatively impact the score.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but the cost and reliability of these services must be considered. For those **moving to Longwood**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial.

The "Overall Health Score" for 28452 is moderately favorable. It highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options when accessing healthcare. Improving public transit, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding the network of local healthcare providers would all contribute to a higher score and improved healthcare access for residents. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is a key factor in maintaining good health and well-being, underscoring the importance of this analysis for anyone considering a move to the area. Access to **healthcare** is vital, and understanding the practicalities of **transportation** is essential for informed decision-making, especially when **moving to Longwood**.