28508, Albertson, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.74 percent of residents in 28508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28508 (Albertson, NC)

Albertson, North Carolina, nestled within the 28508 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. The ability to access healthcare, a critical determinant of well-being, is inextricably linked to transportation options. Understanding the challenges and opportunities within this context paints a clearer picture of the health score for residents. This assessment delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare, considering driving times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Albertson**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The primary mode of transportation in Albertson, and the surrounding Duplin County, is the personal vehicle. This reality significantly shapes the **healthcare access** landscape. Residents rely heavily on their cars to reach medical facilities. The drive times, therefore, are a primary factor in determining the overall health score.

The most direct route to significant healthcare providers often involves navigating the local road network and connecting to major highways. For example, reaching Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, approximately 10 miles from Albertson, usually requires traveling along NC-24. This route, while generally straightforward, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or in the event of an accident.

Further afield, accessing larger medical centers in Wilmington, or Greenville, requires longer commutes. The journey to Wilmington, approximately 70 miles, necessitates utilizing NC-24 to US-17, and then I-40. This can easily translate into a 1.5- to 2-hour drive, depending on traffic. Similarly, reaching Greenville, home to Vidant Medical Center, requires a drive of about 70 miles via US-117 and US-264, a trip that can also take up to two hours. These extended travel times, especially in emergencies, pose a significant challenge to **healthcare access**.

Public **transportation** options within the 28508 ZIP code are limited. Duplin County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This severely restricts the ability of individuals without personal vehicles to access healthcare.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is also limited in Albertson and surrounding areas. While these services might be available, their reliability and cost-effectiveness can be questionable, especially for frequent medical appointments. This further exacerbates the transportation challenges faced by residents.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport providers, cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

The overall health score for residents of 28508 is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with **transportation** to healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, creates barriers to access. The extended drive times to major medical centers, especially in emergency situations, raise concerns about timely care.

The lack of readily available public **transportation** disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a personal vehicle. This disparity can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially worsening health outcomes.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but their cost and availability can be a limiting factor. The reliability of these services is crucial for ensuring that individuals can receive the care they need, especially when facing mobility challenges.

The health score for residents of 28508 is not solely determined by the physical infrastructure of roads and transit. It is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services within the local area significantly impacts the overall health score.

The proximity of Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville offers a critical advantage. This facility provides essential medical services, including emergency care, reducing the need for longer journeys to larger hospitals. However, the availability of specialized care within the local area can be limited, requiring residents to travel further for certain treatments.

The economic factors associated with healthcare access also play a crucial role. The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential tolls, can be a significant burden for low-income residents. This financial strain can further limit access to healthcare, leading to delayed or avoided medical care.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of healthcare providers, the accessibility of transportation options, the economic realities of residents, and the presence of social support systems all contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

The health score for residents of 28508 is a nuanced assessment, reflecting the challenges and opportunities within the community. The need for improved **transportation** options is clear. This could involve exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation, or investing in community-based transportation programs.

For those **moving to Albertson**, understanding these transportation realities is essential. It’s important to assess the proximity of healthcare providers, consider the availability of transportation options, and factor in the potential costs associated with accessing medical care.

The health score also highlights the need for proactive community initiatives. This could include promoting health education programs, providing resources for preventative care, and advocating for policies that support improved **healthcare access**.

The overall health score for 28508 is a call to action. It underscores the importance of addressing the transportation challenges, supporting the local healthcare infrastructure, and empowering residents to take control of their health. By focusing on these key areas, the community can work towards improving the overall health and well-being of its residents.