28511, Atlantic, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.24 percent of residents in 28511 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 34.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 25.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28511 (Atlantic, NC)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 28511, encompassing the charming coastal community of Atlantic, NC, necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This includes evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical services. A critical component of this analysis is the transportation landscape, considering both private and public options, and the associated challenges and opportunities. This write-up delves into the specifics of commute times, available routes, and service providers, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare accessibility within this unique coastal environment.

The primary challenge for residents of Atlantic, NC, when it comes to healthcare access is the relative isolation of the community. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Morehead City, approximately 30 miles west. This distance translates to a considerable commute, impacting the overall health score. The most direct route to Morehead City involves traveling west on NC-70, a major thoroughfare that can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours and tourist season. Delays can significantly extend commute times, particularly for those needing urgent care.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are influenced by several factors, including traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the healthcare provider within Morehead City. Under ideal conditions, a drive to Carteret Health Care, the primary hospital in the area, can take approximately 45 minutes. However, this time can easily stretch to an hour or more during peak travel periods or inclement weather, such as hurricanes, which are a recurring concern for those moving to Atlantic.

Alternative routes, while available, offer limited advantages. Residents can utilize smaller roads like Harkers Island Road and Cedar Island Road, but these options often involve slower speeds and potential for encountering wildlife, which can further complicate travel. Therefore, the reliance on NC-70 remains the dominant factor in determining drive times to healthcare.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Carteret County Transportation System (CCTS) provides some services, but these are primarily focused on serving the elderly, disabled, and low-income populations. Regular routes to Morehead City from Atlantic are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. The availability of ADA-compliant features on CCTS vehicles is a positive aspect, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often inconsistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, demand, and the location within the county. Reliance on ride-sharing for medical transportation can be costly and unreliable, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in accessing care. This adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several providers operate in the area, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility, but come at a higher cost than public transportation or ride-sharing. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The impact of these transportation factors on the overall health score is significant. Residents of Atlantic face challenges in accessing timely and convenient healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the limited public transportation options contribute to a lower health score. This is especially true for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals, who may face greater difficulties in accessing care.

The healthcare landscape in Morehead City includes a variety of providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and the hospital. However, the accessibility of these services is directly tied to the transportation infrastructure. The ability to quickly and efficiently reach these providers is a critical determinant of the overall health score.

Furthermore, the availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is a crucial factor. The response time of ambulances to Atlantic and the surrounding areas is a critical consideration. Delays in reaching a hospital can have serious consequences in emergency situations. The effectiveness of the EMS system is therefore directly linked to the overall health score.

The physical and mental well-being of the residents of Atlantic is intricately linked to their ability to access healthcare. The challenges posed by transportation, including drive times, limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, can create barriers to care. These barriers can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to preventative care.

The health score for 28511 is also influenced by the availability of healthcare services within the community itself. The presence of local clinics, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers can mitigate the impact of transportation challenges. However, the limited healthcare infrastructure within Atlantic necessitates reliance on services located outside the community.

The overall health score for residents of 28511 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the limitations in transportation infrastructure present a significant challenge to healthcare access. The need for improved public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and affordable medical transportation options is evident.

For those considering moving to Atlantic, it is crucial to factor in the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. Careful consideration should be given to the availability of personal vehicles, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation, and the ability to navigate the roadways, particularly NC-70.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 28511 is negatively impacted by the transportation landscape. The distance to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to care. Improving transportation options and expanding healthcare services within the community are crucial steps towards enhancing the overall health score and ensuring that residents of Atlantic have timely and convenient access to the healthcare they need. Addressing these challenges will improve the quality of life and promote the well-being of this unique coastal community.