28470, Shallotte, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28470, Shallotte, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.87 percent of residents in 28470 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 8.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Shallotte, NC (ZIP Code 28470)

Shallotte, North Carolina, a charming coastal town, offers a desirable lifestyle for many. However, assessing its overall health score necessitates a deep dive into a critical aspect of well-being: healthcare access. This analysis examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 28470, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, influencing the overall health score for potential residents considering moving to Shallotte.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, physical proximity. Shallotte, while offering some local medical services, relies heavily on facilities in neighboring towns and cities. This translates directly into commute times, a crucial factor in determining the health score. The primary routes connecting Shallotte to these healthcare hubs are the major thoroughfares: US-17, the primary artery, and NC-130, which offers a more direct route to some areas.

For those seeking specialized care or emergency services, Brunswick Novant Medical Center in Bolivia (approximately 15 miles) is a significant destination. Driving time to this facility, under normal traffic conditions, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes via US-17. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or tourist seasons, can significantly extend these travel times, impacting the health score negatively. This is an important consideration for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Wilmington, a larger city with a wider array of healthcare options, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, is another important destination. The drive to Wilmington, primarily via US-17, is approximately 40 to 50 miles, translating to a commute time of roughly an hour, potentially longer during peak travel periods. This longer commute significantly impacts the health score, especially for those with mobility limitations or those needing regular specialized care.

Public transportation options within and around Shallotte are limited. Brunswick County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not designed to prioritize medical transportation. The current system is not a viable option for reliable healthcare access, and the lack of ADA-accessible vehicles, further diminishes the health score for residents with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Shallotte, providing a potential alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides can also be a significant financial burden, further impacting the health score for residents with limited incomes. The reliability of ride-sharing, coupled with the potential for higher costs, requires careful consideration when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer another option. These services, provided by companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport, typically cater to non-emergency medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance or type of care they can accommodate. While offering a valuable service, they add to the overall complexity of healthcare access, impacting the health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Shallotte, NC (28470) is moderately impacted by transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles for reaching healthcare facilities is a significant factor. While the drive times to Brunswick Novant Medical Center are reasonable, the longer commute to Wilmington and the limited public transportation options present challenges.

The absence of a robust public transit system, coupled with the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services, further diminishes the health score. The availability of medical transportation services does offer a valuable alternative, but their limitations must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Shallotte, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Those with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those who rely on public transportation should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the feasibility of accessing necessary services.

The health score for Shallotte is further influenced by the seasonal nature of the area. During peak tourist seasons, traffic congestion on US-17 can significantly increase commute times, further impacting healthcare access. This seasonal variation adds an additional layer of complexity to the overall health score.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Shallotte itself also plays a role. While the town offers some primary care and urgent care options, the need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized care or emergency services remains a significant factor. The proximity of healthcare facilities within Shallotte itself is a positive factor, but the need for specialized care necessitates travel to other locations.

The overall health score is also influenced by the demographics of the population. Shallotte has a significant senior population, a demographic group that often requires more frequent medical care and may have mobility limitations. This demographic factor underscores the importance of accessible and reliable transportation options.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Shallotte, NC (28470) is moderate. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation challenges to access healthcare facilities, particularly the longer commute times to Wilmington and the limited public transportation options, present significant considerations. The health score is further impacted by the seasonal traffic, the demographic makeup of the population, and the reliance on personal vehicles. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the transportation landscape when considering a move to Shallotte. A comprehensive evaluation of these factors is essential for making an informed decision about their overall well-being.