28461, Southport, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28461, Southport, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.42 percent of residents in 28461 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Southport, NC (ZIP Code 28461)

The overall health score for residents of Southport, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28461) concerning healthcare access is a complex equation. It considers the interplay of transportation infrastructure, proximity to medical facilities, availability of public transit, and the presence of alternative transport options. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive assessment, considering the diverse needs of Southport's population, including those contemplating moving to this charming coastal town.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Southport is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The town's layout, while picturesque, presents challenges for those without personal vehicles. The major arteries influencing healthcare access include **NC Highway 211**, **NC Highway 87**, and **Southport-Oak Island Road**. These roads connect Southport to neighboring communities, where more extensive medical services are available.

Drive times are a critical component of the health score. Residents seeking routine care, such as primary care physician visits, often find adequate options within Southport itself. However, for specialized treatments, emergency care, or advanced diagnostic services, the journey expands.

**Brunswick Medical Center**, located in neighboring Bolivia, is a crucial healthcare hub. The drive to Brunswick Medical Center from Southport via NC Highway 211 typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable commute for many, but it can become problematic during peak hours or in the event of an emergency.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Wilmington, approximately 30-45 minutes away via NC Highway 87 and US Highway 17. Wilmington offers a broader range of hospitals, including **New Hanover Regional Medical Center**, and specialist physicians. This longer commute time necessitates careful consideration, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Southport are limited. The **Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS)** provides some services, but the routes and frequency may not adequately serve the healthcare needs of all residents. The BCTS primarily operates demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance.

The BCTS offers some ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. However, the system's coverage is not extensive, and routes may not directly connect residents to all healthcare facilities. This limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Southport, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, impacting their ability to access necessary healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as **Care Ride** and **Coastal Medical Transportation**, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. While these services can be invaluable for those with mobility limitations, they can also be expensive, and their availability may be limited.

The overall health score for Southport, NC, reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers some local healthcare options, residents often need to travel to neighboring communities for more specialized care. Drive times to major medical facilities are generally manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles poses challenges for those without access to a car.

The limited public transportation options further exacerbate these challenges, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides some alternative options, but their cost and reliability can be limiting factors.

Considering the healthcare access landscape, individuals contemplating moving to Southport should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should consider the drive times to specialist physicians and hospitals.

The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining good health. Prospective residents should investigate the public transportation options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers to determine if they meet their needs.

Southport's charm and coastal beauty are undeniable, but the health score highlights the importance of planning for healthcare access. The town's reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options necessitate careful consideration for those prioritizing easy access to medical services.

The overall health score for Southport could be improved by enhancing public transportation services, expanding the availability of ride-sharing options, and increasing the presence of medical transportation providers. These improvements would contribute to greater healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their mobility or access to personal vehicles.

In conclusion, while Southport offers a desirable lifestyle, the health score reflects the importance of carefully considering transportation and healthcare access. Prospective residents should research the available options and plan accordingly to ensure their healthcare needs are met. The town's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and expanding healthcare resources will undoubtedly contribute to a higher overall health score in the future.