28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.57 percent of residents in 28543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brynn Marr Hosp with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28543

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 28543, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. This area, encompassing the community of Tarawa Terrace, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing the overall health and well-being of its residents, especially those considering moving to Tarawa Terrace.

The health score is determined by evaluating various aspects of transportation infrastructure and healthcare availability. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources. Each category will be assessed for its impact on the ability of residents to reach essential medical appointments, emergency care, and preventative services.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in 28543 is personal vehicles. This necessitates a thorough understanding of the road network and associated drive times to healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare, **US Highway 17**, serves as the primary artery connecting Tarawa Terrace to Jacksonville, where the majority of specialized medical services are located.

Navigating **US Highway 17** can be challenging during peak hours, especially near the intersections with **NC Highway 24** and **Piney Green Road**. Congestion can significantly increase drive times, potentially delaying access to critical care. Residents should factor in these delays when planning appointments or emergencies.

Smaller roads like **Lejeune Boulevard** and **Western Boulevard** offer alternative routes, but they are often subject to local traffic and may not always be the most efficient option, especially for those needing to reach facilities further afield. Drive times to healthcare providers in Jacksonville can range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 28543 are limited. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides bus services within the city, but these routes may not directly serve Tarawa Terrace or offer convenient access to all healthcare facilities. The routes are primarily designed to serve the urban core of Jacksonville.

Bus route **Route 1** and **Route 2** might be considered for some healthcare access, but these routes may not directly serve Tarawa Terrace. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive factor for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that public transit is an option for everyone. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long travel times make public transit a less desirable option for many residents seeking timely healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Jacksonville area, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, particularly for those without access to a car or unable to drive. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can make them an expensive option.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide**, **MedTran**, and local ambulance services, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services are crucial for those with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limitations on the geographic area they serve.

**Healthcare Access and Facilities:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within ZIP Code 28543 is limited. The primary care options are located in Jacksonville. This necessitates travel for most medical needs. The proximity to Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune provides some healthcare services for military personnel and their families, but access is restricted.

Specialized medical services, including specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers, are predominantly located in Jacksonville. This geographical disparity necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options to ensure timely access to healthcare.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the overall health score for residents of 28543 regarding healthcare access is moderate. While residents have several transportation options, each presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can impact access to care. The limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing services add complexity to healthcare access.

To improve the health score, several recommendations are proposed. Firstly, the local government should explore options to expand public transit services, including extending routes to better serve Tarawa Terrace and increasing the frequency of service. Secondly, promoting ride-sharing programs and providing financial assistance for transportation to healthcare appointments could be beneficial.

Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical transportation services and improving the coordination between healthcare providers and transportation providers would significantly enhance healthcare access. Residents considering moving to Tarawa Terrace should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly.

Finally, the establishment of a community health center within or closer to Tarawa Terrace would significantly improve healthcare access for residents, reducing the reliance on travel and improving overall health outcomes. This comprehensive approach, integrating transportation solutions with healthcare infrastructure, will contribute to a healthier and more accessible community.