28457, Rocky Point, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28457, Rocky Point, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.59 percent of residents in 28457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28457 (Rocky Point, NC)

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 28457, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. A significant factor influencing health outcomes is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This report meticulously examines transportation options available to residents of Rocky Point, North Carolina, evaluating drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Rocky Point or evaluating the community's health infrastructure.

The geographical context of Rocky Point, situated in Pender County, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most transportation needs. The sprawling nature of the area and limited public transit options present challenges to healthcare access. This analysis provides a comprehensive view of the existing transportation landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Rocky Point are US-117 and NC-210. These routes provide the most direct access to healthcare facilities in Wilmington and Burgaw. The drive time to New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, a major regional hospital, can vary significantly depending on traffic. Under normal conditions, the journey along US-117 and then US-17 (often referred to as Market Street in Wilmington) takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. However, peak traffic hours, particularly during weekday commutes, can extend this time considerably.

Accessing Pender Memorial Hospital in Burgaw, a smaller, community-focused facility, is generally quicker. The drive along NC-210 is typically a 15 to 20-minute journey. This proximity offers a valuable alternative for residents seeking less intensive care or those needing quicker access to emergency services.

The condition of these roadways is generally well-maintained. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or hurricanes, road closures and delays are possible, potentially impacting healthcare access. The impact of these conditions is a significant consideration when evaluating the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 28457 are extremely limited. The Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (Wave Transit) primarily serves New Hanover County and does not have established routes that directly service Rocky Point. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While there are no fixed-route buses, it is worth investigating the possibility of on-demand services. The availability of such options, if any, can greatly influence the health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area and may be accessible in Rocky Point. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and others provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited.

**Accessibility Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features in public transportation and medical facilities. However, the lack of robust public transit in Rocky Point necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or specialized services. This situation presents a challenge for individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible ride-sharing vehicles and medical transport services becomes crucial.

**Healthcare Access and its Impact on Health:**

The ability to access healthcare services promptly and efficiently is fundamental to overall health. Delays in accessing care can lead to worsened health outcomes, particularly in emergency situations. Chronic conditions require regular check-ups and treatments, making reliable transportation essential. The transportation limitations in Rocky Point can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, exacerbating existing health disparities.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 28457 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities in Wilmington and Burgaw, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges. Drive times can be lengthy, especially during peak hours, and the lack of affordable and accessible transportation options impacts vulnerable populations.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Rocky Point:**

For individuals considering moving to Rocky Point, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those without personal vehicles should carefully evaluate the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor, and the location of a residence within Rocky Point can influence drive times.

The community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This might include advocating for expanded public transit options, supporting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and promoting medical transport services. Increased community awareness of available resources and assistance programs is also vital.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Rocky Point reflects the complex interplay between geography, transportation infrastructure, and healthcare resources. While the community has access to healthcare facilities, the transportation limitations present significant challenges. Understanding these challenges is crucial for residents, prospective residents, and policymakers seeking to improve health outcomes in Rocky Point. The availability and reliability of transportation are essential elements in a community's overall health and well-being.