28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.62 percent of residents in 28465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oak Island (ZIP Code 28465)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Oak Island, North Carolina (ZIP code 28465), focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access** as it relates to **transportation** options. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to their well-being, especially for those considering **moving to Oak Island**. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced perspective, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The health score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment, considering the strengths and weaknesses of available transportation options. The score is based on factors such as the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of travel routes, the availability of alternative transportation, and the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities.

Oak Island, a charming coastal town, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, while offering stunning ocean views, necessitates careful consideration of how residents will access essential medical services. The town’s relatively small size and limited public transportation infrastructure are balanced by the proximity to larger towns and cities, providing a broader range of healthcare options.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Oak Island residents is personal vehicles. The primary route to access healthcare outside of the island is via NC Highway 133, a vital artery connecting Oak Island to the mainland. Traffic flow on Highway 133 is generally moderate, but it can experience congestion during peak tourist seasons and in the event of accidents.

Traveling to Wilmington, the largest city in the area, requires navigating Highway 133 to connect with US Highway 17. This route provides access to a wide array of medical facilities, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), a major hospital with specialized services. The drive to Wilmington typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For residents needing to access healthcare in Southport, a smaller town closer to Oak Island, the drive is significantly shorter. Taking NC Highway 211 provides direct access to Southport, with travel times typically ranging from 15 to 20 minutes. Southport offers a variety of medical practices and a smaller hospital, Brunswick Medical Center.

Other local roads, such as Oak Island Drive and E Oak Island Drive, provide internal access within the island. These roads are generally well-maintained but can experience increased traffic during the summer months. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Oak Island and the surrounding area are limited. Brunswick County Transportation provides a demand-response service, operating on a reservation basis. This service is available to residents of all ages and abilities, but it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

The availability of fixed-route public transit is virtually non-existent within Oak Island. Residents relying on public transportation for healthcare access must primarily rely on the Brunswick County Transportation service, which may require significant planning and coordination.

The Brunswick County Transportation service is designed to be ADA-accessible, with vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the limited frequency and potential travel times should be carefully considered.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Oak Island, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate. During peak tourist seasons or inclement weather, wait times for ride-sharing services may increase, potentially impacting access to timely medical care.

Medical transport services are available for residents who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, often provided by private companies, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Oak Island area, including First Response Ambulance Service and Brunswick County EMS. These services offer various levels of care, from basic transportation to advanced life support.

**Healthcare Facilities and Proximity:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. Oak Island itself has limited medical services, primarily consisting of primary care physicians and urgent care clinics. Residents often need to travel to nearby towns and cities for specialized medical care.

Wilmington, with its comprehensive medical infrastructure, is the primary destination for specialized healthcare services. NHRMC offers a wide range of medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and surgery. Other healthcare providers in Wilmington include Cape Fear Clinic and Wilmington Health.

Southport provides a more local option, with Brunswick Medical Center offering a range of medical services. Southport also has several medical practices and specialist offices.

**Accessibility and Special Considerations:**

Accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as ADA-compliant public transit and medical transport services, is essential for ensuring equal access to healthcare.

Residents with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the transportation options available to them. The potential for travel delays, limited public transportation, and reliance on personal vehicles can create challenges for healthcare access.

For seniors and individuals with limited mobility, the availability of medical transport services and the ease of access to healthcare facilities are particularly important. The ability to arrange transportation in advance and the availability of assistance with mobility can significantly impact their overall health and well-being.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Oak Island (ZIP code 28465) is moderate. While the town offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options pose challenges to healthcare access. Residents have access to a range of healthcare facilities, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transportation require careful planning and consideration.

The strengths of the area include the proximity to Wilmington and Southport, offering a variety of medical services. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative transportation options.

The weaknesses include the limited public transportation infrastructure and the potential for travel delays during peak seasons. The reliance on personal vehicles can be a burden for those without access to a car or those with mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Oak Island, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the available transportation options is crucial. Residents should factor in travel times, the availability of alternative transportation, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. By carefully evaluating these factors, potential residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure their overall well-being.