28642, Jonesville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28642, Jonesville, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.66 percent of residents in 28642 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28642 (Jonesville, North Carolina)**

This analysis evaluates the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Jonesville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28642), focusing on the vital intersection of transportation and health. We will explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, providing a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Jonesville, as healthcare access is a fundamental determinant of overall well-being.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for Jonesville is significantly influenced by its rural location. While Jonesville offers a tranquil lifestyle, its relative isolation presents challenges in healthcare access. The score considers the availability, affordability, and convenience of transportation options to reach medical facilities, recognizing that timely access to care is paramount for positive health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Jonesville is personal vehicles. The drive times to medical facilities are crucial factors in the ‘Overall Health Score.’ Residents often rely on the network of roads, including US-21, which serves as a main artery connecting Jonesville to larger towns and cities. Travel to facilities in North Wilkesboro, approximately 15 miles south, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Interstate 77, though accessible via US-21, is not immediately adjacent to Jonesville. Traveling to facilities in Winston-Salem, a regional healthcare hub, involves a longer journey, approximately 60-75 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination. This longer travel time can be a significant barrier, especially during emergencies or for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

The condition of the roads also impacts the score. While US-21 is generally well-maintained, secondary roads may be narrower and less smooth. Weather conditions, particularly during winter, can further complicate travel, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. The ‘Overall Health Score’ considers the potential for these disruptions.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Jonesville are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the ‘Overall Health Score.’ There is no dedicated bus service within Jonesville or direct routes to major healthcare facilities. This lack of public transportation poses a considerable challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, including seniors, low-income residents, and those with disabilities.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. This further highlights the importance of personal vehicles and the availability of ride-sharing services. The ‘Overall Health Score’ reflects the limitations imposed by the lack of public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jonesville, but their availability may be limited compared to larger urban areas. The ‘Overall Health Score’ considers the potential reliance on ride-sharing, which can be an expensive option, especially for regular medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, are available in the region. These services, such as Med-Trans and others, provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking, which is a factor in the ‘Overall Health Score.’

The availability of medical transport services is a positive aspect of the score, but the cost and scheduling constraints must be considered. The ‘Overall Health Score’ reflects the need for careful planning and financial resources to utilize these services effectively.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility**

The ‘Overall Health Score’ also considers the proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities within and around Jonesville. The presence of local clinics and family practices is a positive factor, providing convenient access to primary care. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as specialists, hospitals, and emergency care, is more limited within Jonesville itself.

Residents often need to travel to North Wilkesboro or Winston-Salem for specialized care. This travel time, as discussed earlier, significantly impacts the ‘Overall Health Score.’ The score reflects the need for residents to balance the convenience of local primary care with the necessity of traveling for specialized services.

**ADA Accessibility**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of the ‘Overall Health Score.’ The score assesses the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of both transportation options and healthcare facilities. The availability of accessible vehicles through medical transport services is a positive factor, but the overall lack of public transportation with ADA features is a negative.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ considers the physical accessibility of healthcare facilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms. The score reflects the need for healthcare providers to ensure that their facilities are fully accessible to all patients.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for accessing healthcare in Jonesville, NC (ZIP Code 28642) is moderately impacted by the limitations in transportation options. While Jonesville offers a peaceful environment, its rural location presents challenges to healthcare access.

The score is negatively affected by the limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for longer travel times to access specialized medical services. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some relief, but the cost and scheduling constraints must be considered.

The score is positively influenced by the presence of local clinics and family practices, providing convenient access to primary care. The overall score reflects the need for residents to carefully plan their healthcare access, considering the available transportation options and the potential for travel time and costs.

For individuals considering moving to Jonesville, this ‘Overall Health Score’ serves as a critical assessment of healthcare access. The score underscores the importance of having a reliable means of transportation, the potential for increased healthcare costs, and the need for careful planning to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. The ‘Overall Health Score’ is a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Jonesville and for making informed decisions about health and well-being.