28529, Grantsboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28529, Grantsboro, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.22 percent of residents in 28529 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carolina East Medical Center with a distance of 10.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28529 (Grantsboro, NC)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Grantsboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28529), requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare. This encompasses more than just the availability of medical facilities; it considers the ease with which individuals can *transport* themselves to these resources. The following analysis examines the *transportation* landscape, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical *transport* providers, to paint a comprehensive picture of *healthcare access* for those living in and potentially *moving to Grantsboro*.

Grantsboro, a small, rural community nestled in Pamlico County, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare accessibility. Its location, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents geographical limitations. The nearest major healthcare hubs are located in New Bern and Morehead City, necessitating travel for specialized care. The overall health score will reflect the relative ease or difficulty of navigating this landscape.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary means of *transportation* for most Grantsboro residents is personal vehicles. The road network, while generally well-maintained, can become congested during peak hours. From Grantsboro, the most direct route to New Bern, the county seat of Craven County, is primarily via US-70 East. This highway, a vital artery connecting coastal communities, offers a relatively smooth ride, though traffic can build up, particularly near Havelock. Expect a drive time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

To reach Morehead City, a popular destination for specialized medical services, the journey involves a combination of US-70 East and NC-24 East. This route, spanning approximately 45 to 60 minutes, presents a slightly longer travel time due to the winding nature of NC-24 East, especially as it approaches the coast. The roads are generally in good condition, but drivers should be mindful of wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk.

Smaller, local roads, such as NC-306, provide alternative routes but often involve slower speeds and potential for delays. Residents should carefully consider these routes when planning their medical appointments, factoring in potential disruptions due to weather or road closures.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public *transportation* options in Pamlico County are limited. There is no dedicated public bus system within the county itself. The closest options are located in Craven County, specifically in New Bern, but these services are designed primarily for local travel within the city limits.

The Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN), located in New Bern, offers limited commercial air service. However, it is not a viable option for routine medical appointments.

The lack of a robust public *transportation* system poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This impacts *healthcare access* by limiting their ability to reach medical facilities. The absence of ADA-compliant bus routes within the county exacerbates this issue, creating barriers for those requiring accessible *transportation*.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Grantsboro area, but their availability is inconsistent. Response times can be lengthy, and surge pricing may apply during peak demand or in areas with limited driver availability. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical *transport* services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local providers offer non-emergency medical *transport* (NEMT) for individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which could be a barrier for some residents.

**Specific Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

The location of specialized medical facilities is a critical factor. While New Bern and Morehead City offer a wide range of medical services, including hospitals, specialists, and urgent care centers, the travel time and *transportation* challenges can deter residents from seeking timely medical attention.

Consider the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists within Grantsboro or nearby communities. The presence of local medical providers can reduce the need for extensive travel. However, the limited number of healthcare professionals in rural areas can lead to longer wait times for appointments and a reduced choice of providers.

The availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services within Grantsboro is also a factor. Easy access to medication and other essential supplies can improve the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors discussed, the overall health score for Grantsboro residents is moderate. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles for *transportation* to healthcare facilities. The lack of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical *transport* services create barriers to *healthcare access*, especially for vulnerable populations.

The drive times to New Bern and Morehead City, while manageable, can be a burden for those with mobility issues or limited financial resources. The availability of local medical providers, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related services within Grantsboro can mitigate some of these challenges.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Explore the feasibility of establishing a public *transportation* system within Pamlico County or expanding existing services from Craven County to include Grantsboro.
* **Promote ride-sharing awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and limitations of ride-sharing services.
* **Support medical *transport* services:** Provide information and resources to residents about the availability and cost of medical *transport* services.
* **Encourage telehealth adoption:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and follow-up care.
* **Attract healthcare professionals:** Incentivize healthcare professionals to establish practices in Grantsboro and surrounding communities.

By addressing these issues, Grantsboro can improve *healthcare access* for its residents, leading to better health outcomes and a higher overall health score for those *moving to Grantsboro*.