28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.89 percent of residents in 28520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 37.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 31.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Cedar Island, NC (ZIP Code 28520)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report delves into the transportation landscape of Cedar Island, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28520), providing an “Overall Health Score” based on the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This score considers various transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living in, or considering **moving to Cedar Island**. The score will reflect the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the region to receive essential medical care.

Cedar Island, a coastal community, presents unique transportation challenges. Its relative isolation and reliance on a limited road network impact healthcare accessibility. Factors such as distance to medical facilities, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation options are crucial determinants of the Overall Health Score. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the existing infrastructure and its implications for residents' well-being.

**Drive-Time Analysis and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Cedar Island residents to access healthcare is by private vehicle. The road network, however, presents a significant hurdle. The primary route to reach the nearest major healthcare facilities in Morehead City or Beaufort involves traveling along NC-12, a scenic but often narrow and vulnerable coastal highway. This route is susceptible to closures due to inclement weather, particularly hurricanes, which can severely restrict healthcare access.

The drive time to Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, the closest full-service hospital, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes under ideal conditions. This journey necessitates navigating NC-12, then transitioning to US-70, a more substantial highway but still prone to traffic congestion, especially during peak seasons. The distance is roughly 50 miles, a significant distance for routine appointments and emergencies.

Alternatively, accessing Vidant Beaufort Hospital in Washington, NC, involves a longer drive, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. This route utilizes NC-12, then connects to US-264. This option presents a greater distance and potential for increased travel time, especially considering the possibility of traffic delays or adverse weather conditions.

These drive times highlight the geographical challenges facing Cedar Island residents. The dependence on a single highway, NC-12, creates a vulnerability. Any disruption on this route, whether due to weather, accidents, or construction, can severely impede healthcare access, impacting the Overall Health Score negatively.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options are limited in Carteret County, and Cedar Island, in particular, faces significant challenges. The existing public transit system, primarily operated by Carteret County Transportation, offers limited routes and schedules. These services are not specifically designed to cater to healthcare needs.

The availability of public transit to medical facilities is minimal. There are no direct, regularly scheduled routes that connect Cedar Island to Morehead City or Beaufort hospitals. Residents would need to rely on a combination of services, potentially requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the Overall Health Score. This limitation disproportionately affects those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. This lack of access exacerbates health disparities and limits opportunities for preventative care.

**ADA Accessibility:**

While Carteret County Transportation strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the limitations of the route network and frequency of service impact the effectiveness of these accommodations. The long distances and potential for multiple transfers can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The Overall Health Score is diminished by these accessibility constraints.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morehead City and Beaufort areas. However, their availability in Cedar Island is inconsistent. The limited population density and geographical isolation make it difficult to guarantee the availability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. However, these services are often costly and may require prior arrangements. The reliance on these services for routine appointments or preventative care can create financial burdens for residents.

The sporadic availability of ride-sharing and the cost of medical transport services negatively impact the Overall Health Score. The lack of reliable and affordable alternatives to private vehicles further restricts access to healthcare, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Cedar Island, the Overall Health Score is **moderate**. While residents can access healthcare facilities, the reliance on private vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services present significant challenges. The geographical isolation and vulnerability of the road network further compound these issues.

To improve the Overall Health Score and enhance healthcare access for Cedar Island residents, several recommendations are crucial. First, investing in public transportation infrastructure is essential. This includes expanding the route network, increasing the frequency of service, and establishing direct routes to major healthcare facilities.

Second, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to ensure consistent availability and affordability is vital. Providing subsidies or incentives for ride-sharing trips to medical appointments could significantly improve access for vulnerable populations.

Third, improving the road infrastructure, including maintaining NC-12 and exploring alternative routes, is crucial. This will reduce travel times and minimize the impact of road closures due to weather or accidents.

Finally, promoting telehealth services and remote patient monitoring can also play a vital role. These technologies can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments.

By implementing these recommendations, Cedar Island can enhance its healthcare access and improve the Overall Health Score for its residents, making it a more attractive location for those **moving to Cedar Island** and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need. The health of a community is its most valuable asset, and access to healthcare is the cornerstone of that health.