28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.67 percent of residents in 28458 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rose Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28458)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Rose Hill, North Carolina (ZIP code 28458) requires a nuanced understanding of their access to healthcare. A crucial element influencing this access is transportation. While Rose Hill offers a charming, rural atmosphere, its location presents unique challenges in navigating the healthcare landscape. This analysis considers the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services available to residents, providing a comprehensive view of the transportation infrastructure's impact on their overall health.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Rose Hill is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's relative isolation necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for comprehensive medical services. The most direct route to larger medical facilities often involves navigating the area's network of highways and roads.

For instance, a trip to Wilmington, NC, approximately 60 miles away, offers a wider array of hospitals, specialists, and medical centers. The journey typically involves taking **NC-24 East** and then merging onto **I-40 East**. Expect a drive time of approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but residents should be mindful of potential delays during peak travel times or inclement weather.

Alternatively, heading west on **NC-24** offers access to facilities in Jacksonville, NC, a slightly shorter drive of around 30 to 45 minutes. Jacksonville boasts a regional medical center and various clinics. This route is generally more accessible than the Wilmington option, but the range of specialized services may be more limited.

For urgent care needs, residents may consider driving to Kenansville, NC, a town about 10 minutes away. Kenansville offers a few local clinics and a pharmacy.

Public transportation options in Rose Hill are limited. There is no established public bus system directly serving the town. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the health of residents, especially those who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. This limitation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical appointments.

The absence of public transit necessitates exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in a rural setting. Wait times can be prolonged, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can be a financial burden. This situation can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the policy and medical necessity.

Companies like **Medicaid Transportation**, **Care Ride**, and **First Transit** operate in the area, offering transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can vary, and residents should proactively research and arrange transportation well in advance of their appointments. This proactive planning is critical for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

The overall health score for Rose Hill residents is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, creates a complex transportation landscape.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or access other forms of transportation. However, the need for advance booking and potential limitations on service areas necessitate careful planning and coordination.

For individuals considering moving to Rose Hill, the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and research the availability and reliability of various transportation options.

The drive times to medical facilities, particularly those offering specialized care, should be carefully evaluated. Understanding the potential travel time to Wilmington or Jacksonville, and the associated costs, is essential for making an informed decision about healthcare access.

Furthermore, the availability of medical transportation services and the potential for insurance coverage should be thoroughly investigated. Contacting local healthcare providers and transportation companies can provide valuable insights into the specific transportation options available in the area.

The overall health score for Rose Hill residents is moderately impacted by the available transportation. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation services offers some relief, but these options are not always readily available or affordable. The town's location, while offering a peaceful environment, necessitates careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare.

In conclusion, while Rose Hill offers a tranquil lifestyle, residents must navigate the transportation landscape strategically to ensure they can access the healthcare they need. The drive times, the limited public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport all contribute to the overall health score. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and prospective residents alike, ensuring they can prioritize their health and well-being. The health of the community is directly related to the ease with which its members can access medical care.