28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.00 percent of residents in 28528 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 32.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 12.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28528 (Gloucester, NC)

This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access for residents of Gloucester, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28528), evaluating the efficiency and availability of transportation options. A robust healthcare system is fundamental to overall well-being, and the ability to reach medical services promptly and reliably directly impacts health outcomes. This report considers various transportation modalities, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for this community.

The score reflects the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions. It is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Gloucester, NC, as it directly influences their quality of life and access to vital medical care.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Gloucester is its relative remoteness. While the area offers a tranquil coastal lifestyle, this often translates to longer travel times to reach specialized medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making the condition of roads and traffic patterns critical factors.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Gloucester are US Highway 70 and NC Highway 12. US 70 provides the main connection to Morehead City, Beaufort, and New Bern, where the majority of specialized healthcare providers are located. Driving times to these locations vary significantly depending on traffic and the specific destination.

To reach Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, a common destination for emergency care and general medical services, the drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic flow on US 70. The road is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can occur during peak travel times, especially during tourist season.

Beaufort, with its smaller medical facilities and specialist offices, is accessible within a 15 to 20-minute drive via US 70. However, patients needing more specialized care may need to travel further.

New Bern, approximately an hour's drive via US 70, houses larger hospitals and a wider range of specialists. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs. The condition of US 70 is generally good, but the distance necessitates awareness of potential traffic delays.

NC Highway 12, a scenic coastal route, offers an alternative route south. However, it is primarily used for local travel and is not recommended for accessing healthcare facilities due to its slower speed limits and limited access to major medical centers.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in Gloucester are limited. The Carteret County Transportation System (CCTS) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to facilitate healthcare access. The CCTS offers demand-response services, requiring advance booking, which can be challenging for urgent medical needs.

The CCTS operates within Carteret County, but its routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities in neighboring towns. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a positive feature, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and coverage of the CCTS pose a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Gloucester. Their availability is often inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, especially for those needing to schedule appointments in advance.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, but the cost can be a significant burden. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation for appointments and other medical needs. These services require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for short-notice requests.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Gloucester, NC (ZIP Code 28528) is moderately impacted. While the area offers a pleasant environment and access to natural resources, the transportation limitations present significant challenges.

The primary concern is the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for longer drive times to access specialized medical care. The limited public transit options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges.

Individuals considering moving to Gloucester should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the feasibility of accessing medical services. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential travel times and transportation costs.

**Recommendations:**

To improve healthcare access, the following recommendations are suggested:

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of the CCTS, specifically tailoring routes and schedules to serve healthcare facilities in neighboring towns.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Availability:** Encourage ride-sharing companies to expand their services in the area, potentially through partnerships with local healthcare providers.
* **Support Medical Transportation Services:** Ensure the availability and affordability of NEMT services, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial constraints.
* **Explore Telemedicine Opportunities:** Encourage the use of telemedicine to provide remote healthcare consultations and reduce the need for travel.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve the condition of US 70 and other roadways to ensure safe and efficient travel.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Gloucester can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. This is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Gloucester, as it directly impacts their quality of life and access to vital medical care.