28462, Supply, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28462, Supply, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.60 percent of residents in 28462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 5.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Supply, NC (ZIP Code 28462)

The quaint coastal town of Supply, North Carolina, nestled within the 28462 ZIP code, offers a tranquil lifestyle, drawing residents seeking a slower pace. However, the serenity of Supply presents a critical consideration for anyone prioritizing their health: access to healthcare. This analysis delves into the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape from Supply, examining transportation options and their impact on an individual's overall health score. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical services, a crucial factor when considering a move to this charming community.

The primary challenge for residents of Supply lies in its relative isolation. While the town itself may offer a sense of seclusion, it also necessitates reliance on transportation to reach healthcare facilities. The nearest significant medical centers are located in neighboring towns, primarily in Shallotte and Wilmington. This geographical reality significantly influences the overall health score, demanding careful consideration of commute times, available modes of transportation, and their inherent limitations.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation for healthcare access in Supply. The primary arteries connecting Supply to essential medical services are US-17, NC-211, and various local roads. The drive to Brunswick Medical Center in Shallotte, the closest major hospital, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the overall health score, offering a degree of convenience for routine appointments and urgent care needs.

However, the journey to Wilmington, home to more specialized medical facilities and New Hanover Regional Medical Center, presents a more significant challenge. The drive along US-17 can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours. This extended commute time can be a deterrent for those requiring frequent specialist appointments or facing medical emergencies. The strain of a long drive can exacerbate existing health conditions and add to the stress associated with seeking medical care.

Public transportation options within the 28462 ZIP code are extremely limited, significantly impacting the overall health score. Brunswick County Transit operates a demand-response service, providing transportation to medical appointments. However, this service requires advance booking and may not always be readily available for urgent needs. Furthermore, the routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of healthcare access, potentially requiring lengthy travel times and multiple transfers. The lack of fixed-route bus service and the limited availability of demand-response options present a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with disabilities or mobility limitations. The absence of robust public transit severely restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation. However, the limited scope of public transit in the area means that ADA-compliant options are minimal. This deficiency further lowers the overall health score, particularly for individuals with disabilities who rely on accessible transportation to reach medical appointments. The lack of readily available and accessible public transit creates a significant disparity in healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, potentially improving the overall health score. However, their availability in Supply is not guaranteed, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could make them cost-prohibitive. The reliability of ride-sharing services for medical appointments is also a concern, as cancellations or delays can disrupt schedules and create added stress. While ride-sharing provides a potential solution, its limitations and uncertainties must be factored into the overall assessment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and others provide transportation for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those unable to drive themselves. These services, while available, often come with higher costs and require advance booking. Their availability is also limited, potentially leading to delays in accessing medical care. While these services improve the overall health score for those who qualify, they don't address the broader transportation needs of the community.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Supply, NC (28462) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Shallotte and Brunswick Medical Center offers a degree of convenience, contributing positively to the score. However, the longer commute to Wilmington, the limited public transportation options, the uncertainties of ride-sharing, and the reliance on potentially expensive medical transportation services negatively impact the score.

The availability of transportation directly influences the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, emergency services, and access to essential medications. Delays or difficulties in accessing healthcare can lead to adverse health outcomes, exacerbating existing conditions and potentially hindering preventative care.

For individuals considering a move to Supply, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is crucial. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their individual healthcare needs, the frequency of medical appointments, and their ability to navigate the transportation landscape.

The overall health score is not static; it is influenced by factors such as age, health status, and access to support networks. For seniors or individuals with chronic conditions, the challenges of transportation can be particularly daunting. The availability of family members, friends, or community support networks can play a vital role in mitigating these challenges, improving the overall health score.

The local community can also influence the health score. The presence of community health centers, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers within Supply can improve healthcare access, reducing the need for extensive travel. Initiatives to promote health awareness, provide transportation assistance, and advocate for improved public transit can also positively impact the overall health score.

In conclusion, while Supply, NC (28462) offers a desirable lifestyle, the overall health score for healthcare access is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for long commutes to specialized medical facilities present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities before making a move. The community's efforts to improve healthcare access, including promoting health awareness, supporting transportation initiatives, and advocating for better public transit, will be crucial in enhancing the overall health score for all residents. The ability to easily and reliably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of well-being, and understanding the complexities of transportation in Supply is essential for making informed decisions about one's health and future.