28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.08 percent of residents in 28512 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 2.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Atlantic Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28512)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28512) requires a comprehensive understanding of their ability to access healthcare. This includes evaluating the efficiency and availability of transportation options, considering the distances to medical facilities, and acknowledging the specific needs of the community. This analysis will explore the existing landscape, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for improved healthcare access, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Atlantic Beach.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Atlantic Beach is the relatively isolated location. Situated on a barrier island, residents depend heavily on roadways to reach medical services. The main thoroughfare connecting the island to the mainland is the iconic Atlantic Beach Causeway, which feeds directly into US Highway 70. This highway, a vital artery, provides access to the larger towns of Morehead City and Beaufort, where the majority of healthcare facilities are located.

Drive times are a critical consideration. During off-peak hours, a trip from Atlantic Beach to Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, the nearest full-service hospital, can take approximately 15-20 minutes. However, this can easily double, or even triple, during peak tourist seasons or due to traffic incidents on US Highway 70. Similarly, reaching medical specialists and other healthcare providers in Beaufort may take 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location. These travel times, while seemingly manageable, can become significant barriers for those requiring urgent care or frequent medical appointments.

Public transportation options are limited. The Carteret County Transportation System (CCTS) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation within Carteret County. This service, however, is not specifically designed for healthcare access and operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance planning. The CCTS does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited service area and potential wait times can make it an impractical option for many seeking timely medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering another transportation alternative. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for those with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option, it is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare access, and its reliability can be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, also exist. Companies like First Medical Transport and others offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and they often require pre-booking, which may not be suitable for urgent care needs.

The physical location of healthcare facilities further influences the overall health score. While Carteret Health Care in Morehead City offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and diagnostic testing, it is the primary healthcare hub for the region. This concentration of services means that residents of Atlantic Beach often need to travel to Morehead City for various medical needs. The distance and potential travel time, as discussed earlier, can create significant challenges.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within Atlantic Beach itself is limited. This means that residents often have to travel to neighboring towns for routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and other essential medical services. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation options and the potential impact on the overall health score.

The demographics of Atlantic Beach also play a role in the assessment. The population includes a significant number of retirees and older adults, who may have increased healthcare needs and may be more vulnerable to transportation challenges. This demographic factor underscores the importance of accessible and affordable transportation options to ensure that all residents can access the healthcare they require.

The overall health score for residents of Atlantic Beach, NC (28512) is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the primary roads, like US Highway 70 and the Atlantic Beach Causeway, provide access to healthcare facilities, the drive times can be a barrier, especially during peak hours. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing services, with their inherent uncertainties, further complicate healthcare access.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable alternative, but their limited availability and the need for pre-booking restrict their effectiveness. The concentration of healthcare facilities in Morehead City and Beaufort necessitates travel, increasing the burden on residents. Furthermore, the demographic profile of Atlantic Beach, with a significant number of older adults, highlights the importance of addressing transportation challenges to improve healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Atlantic Beach, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. Prospective residents should factor in the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with transportation. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, while Atlantic Beach offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options present a moderate challenge to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges, through improvements in public transportation, enhanced medical transportation services, and potentially the expansion of healthcare services within the community, would significantly improve the overall health score for residents and enhance the attractiveness of Atlantic Beach as a place to live. The ability to efficiently and reliably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of a healthy community, and continuous efforts to improve transportation and healthcare access are crucial for ensuring the well-being of all residents.