28575, Salter Path, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28575, Salter Path, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.63 percent of residents in 28575 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 8.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28575

Understanding the overall health score for residents of Salter Path, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28575) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis focuses on the crucial element of transportation, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. Factors such as drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability are scrutinized to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to this coastal community.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in 28575 stems from its geographic location. Salter Path is a small, unincorporated community nestled along the Bogue Banks barrier island. This insular setting inherently limits the immediate availability of comprehensive medical services. Therefore, residents heavily rely on transportation to reach healthcare providers located primarily in neighboring towns and cities.

The most direct route for many residents involves driving. The primary thoroughfare connecting Salter Path to the mainland is **NC Highway 58**, a two-lane road that provides access to Morehead City and Beaufort. Driving times to these key healthcare hubs vary depending on traffic and the specific destination. Reaching the **Carteret Health Care** hospital in Morehead City, for example, typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This drive primarily utilizes NC Highway 58, with minimal turns and easy navigation.

Further afield, specialized care might necessitate travel to New Bern or Jacksonville. Reaching New Bern, approximately an hour's drive away, involves using NC Highway 58 to connect with US Highway 70. This route offers a more extensive network of healthcare options but requires significantly more travel time. Jacksonville, home to the **Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune**, is roughly a 1.5-hour drive, primarily via NC Highway 58, US Highway 70, and then onto US Highway 17. These longer drives underscore the importance of reliable personal transportation for residents of Salter Path.

Public transportation options are limited in this coastal region. The **Carteret County Transportation System (CCTS)** offers a demand-response service, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This service is designed to provide transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations. However, the CCTS may not be ideal for urgent care needs, and its availability depends on scheduling and route availability. Riders should inquire about ADA-accessible vehicles when booking a ride.

The CCTS service area extends throughout Carteret County, including Morehead City and Beaufort, where the majority of healthcare providers are located. However, the frequency and coverage of the service within Salter Path and surrounding areas may be limited. This limitation necessitates careful planning for medical appointments and potential delays. Information on routes and fares is available on the Carteret County website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate. While these services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, they may be subject to surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services in the more remote areas of Carteret County may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas.

Medical transportation services are another option for residents needing assistance getting to medical appointments. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation offer services to transport patients who may have mobility limitations or require assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Several medical transportation providers serve the Carteret County area, including **Care Ride Medical Transportation** and **Coastal Medical Transport**. These companies often require advance booking and may have specific service areas. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the specific provider.

For those considering moving to Salter Path, the availability of healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The reliance on personal transportation or pre-arranged services necessitates proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the local healthcare providers, their locations, and the transportation options available to reach them.

The overall health score for 28575 is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the drive to essential healthcare facilities in Morehead City is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can pose challenges for those without access to a car or who have mobility limitations. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation offers some alternatives, but these services may not be readily available or affordable for all residents.

The health score would improve with expanded public transportation services, particularly those that are ADA-accessible and have more frequent routes. Investment in ride-sharing infrastructure and greater awareness of medical transport options would also enhance the healthcare access for the residents of Salter Path.

Ultimately, the overall health score in 28575 is directly tied to the individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape. Residents must be prepared to plan their healthcare needs strategically, considering the time and resources required to reach medical appointments. The beauty and tranquility of Salter Path are undeniable, but potential residents should carefully weigh the transportation considerations when assessing their overall health and well-being.