28664, Plumtree, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28664, Plumtree, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.67 percent of residents in 28664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Charles A Cannon Jr Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plumtree, NC (ZIP Code 28664)

Understanding the overall health score for a community hinges on various factors, but one of the most critical is **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a comprehensive analysis of transportation options available to residents of Plumtree, North Carolina (ZIP code 28664), focusing on how these options impact their ability to reach essential medical services. For those **moving to Plumtree**, or considering a move, this information is vital for informed decision-making.

Plumtree, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges regarding **transportation** and, consequently, **healthcare access**. The rugged terrain and rural nature of the area significantly influence the available options for reaching medical facilities. The overall health score for this community is, therefore, inextricably linked to the efficiency and availability of these transportation resources.

The primary mode of transportation in Plumtree is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The vast majority of residents rely on their cars for daily errands, including accessing healthcare. The drive times to medical facilities are heavily dependent on the specific destination and the road conditions.

The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the winding roads and highways that characterize the region. From Plumtree, residents typically utilize US-19E, a major thoroughfare that connects the area to Spruce Pine and further afield to larger towns like Marion and Asheville. The drive to Spruce Pine, where a hospital and several clinics are located, is relatively short, usually taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Traveling to Marion, a larger town with more extensive medical services, typically involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This journey primarily utilizes US-19E and then merges onto US-221. The route is scenic, but it can be challenging, particularly during inclement weather.

For access to specialized care and tertiary medical centers, residents may need to travel to Asheville. This journey, a longer drive, usually takes between an hour and a half to two hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. The primary route involves US-19E, merging onto I-26 East, and then onto I-240 into Asheville.

Road conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and the feasibility of accessing healthcare. Snow and ice can make the mountain roads treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to medical appointments. Residents need to be prepared for these challenges and consider alternative transportation options or adjust their schedules accordingly.

Public transportation options in Plumtree are limited, which presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The local public transit system, while present, offers limited routes and schedules. The specific route numbers and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features should be confirmed directly with the local transit authority, as this information can change.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates alternative solutions for those who cannot drive. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and response times can be inconsistent, especially in more remote areas like Plumtree. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully researched, and appointments should be scheduled well in advance.

The overall health score for Plumtree is significantly influenced by the challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for weather-related delays all contribute to the difficulties residents face in reaching medical facilities.

For those considering **moving to Plumtree**, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a personal vehicle, or those who require frequent medical appointments should carefully consider the transportation challenges and explore alternative options.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation companies should be investigated thoroughly. Understanding the costs, availability, and reliability of these services is crucial for ensuring access to healthcare.

Furthermore, the local community plays a vital role in supporting healthcare access. Community initiatives that promote carpooling, volunteer driver programs, or partnerships with transportation providers can help bridge the gap and improve the overall health score for the community.

The overall health score is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it also encompasses the ability of residents to reach those facilities. In Plumtree, the transportation landscape presents significant challenges, and addressing these challenges is essential for improving the community's health outcomes.

The community's health is directly tied to the ease with which residents can access medical care. Improving **healthcare access** requires a multi-faceted approach, including promoting public transportation, supporting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation options.

For those **moving to Plumtree**, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation are essential for maintaining their health and well-being. By understanding the challenges and exploring available solutions, residents can navigate the transportation landscape and ensure they receive the healthcare they need.