28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.86 percent of residents in 28547 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 1.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28547

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 28547, focusing on their ability to access healthcare. This analysis considers various transportation methods, travel times, and available resources, offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this area, especially for individuals considering a move to be near Camp Lejeune. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access, allowing informed decisions regarding health and well-being.

ZIP code 28547 encompasses a significant portion of Jacksonville, North Carolina, a city that has grown substantially due to its proximity to the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. This growth, however, has strained local infrastructure, including the transportation network and healthcare facilities. The resulting impact on healthcare access is a critical factor in the overall health score.

**Transportation Infrastructure and Drive Times**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around 28547 are US Highway 17, US Highway 258, and NC Highway 24. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours and when military personnel are traveling. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore variable and must be considered when assessing the overall health score.

For residents located in the central areas of 28547, such as near Western Boulevard, the drive to the nearest major hospital, Onslow Memorial Hospital, typically takes 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 20-30 minutes. This extended travel time can significantly impact the ability to seek timely medical attention, particularly in emergency situations.

Individuals residing further east, closer to Camp Lejeune or the beaches, may face longer drive times. Reaching Onslow Memorial Hospital from these locations can take 20-30 minutes, and potentially longer during peak traffic. The drive involves navigating through intersections and traffic signals, increasing the risk of delays. This extended travel time is a crucial factor when considering healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in 28547 are limited. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) provides bus service, but the routes are not extensive, and the frequency of service is often low. This limitation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations.

The JTS operates several routes, including Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3, which cover various parts of the city. However, none of these routes directly serve all major healthcare facilities. Residents may need to transfer buses or walk significant distances to reach their appointments. The JTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to the system. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service present challenges.

The lack of robust public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities. These individuals may face considerable difficulty in accessing essential healthcare services. This is a serious concern when evaluating the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jacksonville. These services can provide a convenient alternative to driving or using public transportation. However, the availability of drivers and the cost of rides can be significant barriers, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services are also available in the area. These services, often provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, can provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services typically require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent needs. Some of the medical transport brands that operate in the area include, but are not limited to, Medical Transportation Services and First Choice Medical Transport.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation services highlights the gaps in the transportation infrastructure. While these services can improve healthcare access, they are not a comprehensive solution. The cost and availability of these services can create disparities in healthcare access.

**Healthcare Facilities and Access**

Onslow Memorial Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in the area, offering a range of medical services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. Several urgent care centers and physician offices are also located within 28547.

While healthcare facilities are present, access can be challenging due to transportation limitations. The concentration of healthcare providers in specific areas of the city means that residents in outlying areas may face longer travel times. This is a critical consideration when assessing the overall health score.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for residents of 28547 is negatively impacted by the transportation challenges. The limited public transportation options, the potential for extended drive times, and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to reduced healthcare access.

The impact is particularly pronounced for vulnerable populations, including those without personal vehicles, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. These individuals may face significant difficulties in accessing essential healthcare services.

The overall health score is also affected by the rapid population growth associated with Camp Lejeune. The increased demand for healthcare services has strained existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times and reduced access. The ongoing development of infrastructure and healthcare facilities is crucial to improving the overall health score.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the overall health score, several measures are recommended. Expanding the JTS route coverage and increasing the frequency of service would significantly improve healthcare access for those who rely on public transportation.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, would reduce drive times and improve the efficiency of the transportation network. Promoting ride-sharing and medical transportation services can also help to fill the gaps in the transportation system.

Additionally, increasing the number of healthcare providers and facilities, especially in underserved areas, would improve access to care. These improvements are essential to ensuring that all residents of 28547 can access the healthcare services they need.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for residents of 28547 is moderate, with significant challenges related to transportation and healthcare access. While healthcare facilities are available, the limited transportation options and the potential for extended travel times can create barriers to accessing care. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, expanded public transportation, and increased access to healthcare providers is essential to improving the overall health score and ensuring the well-being of the community, particularly for those considering moving to be near Camp Lejeune. The ability to easily navigate the transportation network is key to a healthy lifestyle.