28617, Crumpler, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28617, Crumpler, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 28617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Crumpler, NC (ZIP Code 28617)

The overall health score for residents of Crumpler, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28617) hinges significantly on the accessibility of healthcare. Factors like transportation infrastructure, availability of public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services directly impact a resident's ability to receive timely and necessary medical attention. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of these factors, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in this rural community. It’s vital to consider these elements when contemplating **moving to Crumpler** or assessing the health of its existing population.

Crumpler, nestled in Ashe County, presents a unique set of **transportation** challenges. Its rural setting means residents often rely heavily on personal vehicles. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Crumpler are US-221 and NC-194. These roads, while scenic, can be winding and subject to weather-related delays, especially during the winter months. The drive to larger hospitals and specialist clinics in Boone, West Jefferson, and Wilkesboro can be lengthy, impacting the ability to quickly reach medical care.

The drive time to the nearest hospital, Ashe Memorial Hospital in Jefferson, is generally within a 15-20 minute window via US-221. This is a significant advantage for residents needing immediate medical attention. However, accessing specialized care often necessitates longer journeys. Boone, approximately 30-45 minutes away via NC-194 and US-421, offers a broader range of specialists and services at Watauga Medical Center. Traveling to Wilkesboro, roughly an hour away via NC-16 and US-421, provides access to Wilkes Medical Center.

Public transit options are limited in Crumpler and Ashe County. The primary provider is the Ashe County Transportation Authority (ACTA). ACTA offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While ACTA aims to serve all residents, the availability of these services can be constrained by scheduling limitations and operational hours. Furthermore, the system is not designed with extensive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, which can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility challenges. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like Crumpler. Their availability is often dependent on driver density and demand, which can be inconsistent. This can lead to longer wait times or even the inability to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare appointments is therefore questionable.

Medical transport services are available, primarily for non-emergency medical needs. Companies like MedTrans and FirstCall Medical Transportation operate in the region, offering transportation for appointments, dialysis, and other medical treatments. These services can be costly, and their availability may be limited by insurance coverage and scheduling demands. While they provide a crucial service for those unable to drive or utilize public transit, they are not a universal solution.

The overall health score for Crumpler residents is moderately impacted by the limited **transportation** options. While the proximity to Ashe Memorial Hospital provides a crucial safety net, accessing specialized care requires longer travel times and reliance on personal vehicles. The scarcity of public transit, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services, and the cost and limitations of medical transport services create barriers to **healthcare access**.

The availability of healthcare services within the county is another factor. Ashe Memorial Hospital provides essential services, but residents may need to travel to neighboring counties for specialized care. This underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** options. The ability to quickly and easily access a wider range of medical specialists is critical for managing chronic conditions, addressing urgent health needs, and promoting overall well-being.

The socio-economic demographics of Crumpler also play a role. Lower-income residents may face additional challenges due to the cost of **transportation**, insurance coverage, and the availability of paid time off for medical appointments. These factors can compound the difficulties of accessing healthcare, potentially leading to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes.

Improving the overall health score for Crumpler requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in expanded public transit options, including increased ACTA services and ADA-compliant vehicles, would be a significant step. Encouraging ride-sharing services to operate more consistently in the area could also improve **healthcare access**.

Further, exploring partnerships with local healthcare providers to offer mobile clinics or telehealth services could bring healthcare directly to residents. These initiatives can help bridge the **transportation** gap and reduce the burden of travel for those seeking medical attention.

Community outreach programs aimed at educating residents about available resources, including **transportation** options and financial assistance for medical care, are also crucial. These programs can empower individuals to navigate the healthcare system effectively and ensure they receive the care they need.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Crumpler residents is moderately impacted by **transportation** challenges. While the presence of Ashe Memorial Hospital provides a vital service, the limited availability of public transit, the inconsistent presence of ride-sharing services, and the cost and limitations of medical transport services create barriers to **healthcare access**. Addressing these challenges through investments in public transit, partnerships with healthcare providers, and community outreach programs is essential to improving the health and well-being of the residents of Crumpler and making it a more attractive place for those considering **moving to Crumpler**.