28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.73 percent of residents in 28540 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Onslow Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28540)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28540) necessitates a comprehensive understanding of their ability to access healthcare. This involves scrutinizing the transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare facilities, and the various modes of transport available to bridge the gap between home and care. The following analysis provides a detailed assessment, focusing on the practical realities faced by individuals seeking medical attention within and around this specific area.

The geography of Jacksonville, nestled in Onslow County, presents both advantages and challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relatively compact size makes some services readily accessible, but the surrounding rural landscape and the dependence on personal vehicles for transportation can create barriers. The overall health score is significantly influenced by the ease, or difficulty, with which residents can reach medical appointments, emergency services, and specialized care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Arteries**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Jacksonville are crucial for healthcare access. Commuting to healthcare facilities often relies heavily on personal vehicles. The primary route is undoubtedly **Highway 17**, a major north-south thoroughfare that serves as the spine of the city. Traffic conditions on Highway 17 can fluctuate dramatically, particularly during peak hours and in the event of accidents. Delays can significantly impact the time it takes to reach medical appointments, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised health outcomes.

**Highway 24**, another vital road, provides east-west access and connects Jacksonville to neighboring communities and healthcare providers. This road is particularly important for those living on the outskirts of town or in rural areas, as it offers an alternative route to medical facilities. **Piney Green Road**, **Western Boulevard**, and **Gum Branch Road** are other crucial roads that facilitate access to healthcare facilities within Jacksonville.

Drive times vary depending on the location of the healthcare facility and the resident's starting point. Generally, most facilities within Jacksonville can be reached within a 15-20 minute drive, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, residents in the more remote areas of the ZIP code or those seeking specialized care outside of Jacksonville, such as in Wilmington or New Bern, may face significantly longer commute times, potentially exceeding an hour. This extended travel time can be a major impediment to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation in Jacksonville, while present, offers limited options for healthcare access. The Onslow County Transit System provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are not always conducive to medical appointments. The frequency of service and the coverage area are limited, making it difficult for many residents, especially those living outside the immediate vicinity of the main routes, to rely on public transit.

The Onslow County Transit System does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to transportation. However, the limited route coverage and the potential for long wait times can still pose challenges for those with mobility issues or other health concerns. The lack of a dedicated transportation system specifically designed to serve healthcare needs is a significant drawback.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit, although their availability can be variable depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those who are unable to drive, or those who require medical supervision during transport. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which can be a challenge in emergency situations.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Jacksonville is a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. The city has a range of medical providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics. **Onslow Memorial Hospital** serves as the primary hospital and provides a comprehensive range of medical services. The hospital's location on Western Boulevard makes it relatively accessible for many residents, but traffic congestion can still be a factor.

The location and accessibility of healthcare facilities are critical considerations for residents. The proximity of medical providers, the availability of appointment slots, and the ease of reaching these facilities are all important factors that influence the overall health score.

**The Impact of Transportation on Healthcare Access**

The effectiveness of transportation options directly impacts healthcare access. Residents who lack reliable transportation may face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments, obtaining prescriptions, and accessing other essential healthcare services. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, which can result in poorer health outcomes.

The lack of reliable transportation can also create barriers to preventative care, such as routine check-ups and screenings. This can lead to the delayed detection of health problems and can increase the risk of serious illness or complications.

**Moving to Jacksonville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Jacksonville, the availability and accessibility of healthcare should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the transportation options available, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the potential for commute times to impact their ability to access medical care.

Individuals with chronic health conditions, limited mobility, or other healthcare needs should pay particular attention to the transportation infrastructure and the availability of specialized medical transport services. Researching the location of healthcare facilities relative to potential housing locations is crucial.

**Conclusion: A Complex Landscape**

The overall health score for residents of Jacksonville, NC (ZIP code 28540) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the city has a range of healthcare providers, the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic congestion can create barriers to healthcare access.

The availability of ride-share and medical transport services provides some relief, but these options may not be accessible or affordable for all residents. Improving the public transit system, expanding the availability of ride-share services, and promoting initiatives that support healthcare access are essential steps to improving the overall health score for the community. Addressing transportation challenges is vital to ensuring that all residents can access the healthcare they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.