28464, Teachey, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.93 percent of residents in 28464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.24 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28464 (Teachey, North Carolina)**

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Teachey, North Carolina (ZIP code 28464) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access. A crucial component of this assessment is the transportation infrastructure, which directly impacts a resident’s ability to reach essential medical services. This write-up delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare within and around this rural community, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Teachey.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in this area will undoubtedly be personal vehicles. Teachey, a small town, is not directly served by major highways. Residents typically rely on local roads and state routes to reach healthcare facilities. Traveling to the nearest significant medical centers, such as those in Wallace or Warsaw, requires navigating state routes. The drive to Wallace, the county seat, is often via NC-24, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic during peak hours. Warsaw, slightly further afield, is accessible through NC-24 and NC-11, another two-lane road that connects to major thoroughfares.

Drive times are significantly influenced by the rural nature of the area. The distance to Wallace, approximately 10 miles, might translate to a 15-20 minute drive under normal traffic conditions. However, this can be extended due to traffic, inclement weather, or road conditions. The journey to Warsaw, roughly 20 miles, could take 30-40 minutes, potentially longer depending on the route taken and traffic. These drive times highlight the importance of reliable transportation for those seeking healthcare.

Public transportation options are limited in the 28464 ZIP code. Duplin County, like many rural areas, has a sparse public transit network. While specific route numbers are unavailable, the county does offer a demand-response system, which requires advance scheduling. This service, often operated by the county, may provide transportation to medical appointments. However, availability and scheduling limitations can pose significant challenges for those with urgent medical needs or those who require frequent visits. Furthermore, the accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. Confirming the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the county's public transit is essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Teachey and the surrounding areas. Their presence in rural regions is often inconsistent, and service areas may be restricted. Residents should not assume that ride-sharing is a dependable option for transportation to medical appointments. Checking the availability of these services in advance and considering potential wait times is crucial. This reality underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a vital lifeline. Several medical transport companies may serve the 28464 area, providing non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized medical assistance during transport. Investigating the specific medical transport providers operating in the region, their service areas, and their costs is crucial. Some of the common medical transport brands that may be available in the area include, but are not limited to, private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport companies.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Teachey is moderate. While the proximity to towns like Wallace and Warsaw offers some healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The rural nature of the area, with its longer drive times and potential for unpredictable road conditions, further complicates healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain, and medical transport services, while available, may come with associated costs.

For individuals considering moving to Teachey, a thorough evaluation of transportation options and healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should research the availability of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialists, and assess the feasibility of reaching these facilities. They should also investigate the public transit options, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and costs of medical transport. Understanding these factors will allow prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.

The health score is also influenced by the socioeconomic factors that impact healthcare access. Income levels, insurance coverage, and the availability of affordable healthcare services all play a role. Addressing these factors, alongside improving transportation options, is crucial for enhancing the overall health score for residents of Teachey. The community's ability to advocate for improved transportation infrastructure, expand public transit services, and support the availability of medical transport options will directly impact the health and well-being of its residents.