28672, Scottville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28672, Scottville, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.61 percent of residents in 28672 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Scottville, NC (ZIP Code 28672)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. In the picturesque, yet geographically isolated, community of Scottville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28672), this connection is particularly crucial. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of healthcare accessibility, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. This analysis is vital for anyone considering moving to Scottville, as it directly impacts their quality of life and overall well-being.

Scottville, nestled within the rolling hills of Wilkes County, presents unique challenges for healthcare access. The area’s rural nature necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, making transportation a critical factor. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel along winding roads and through varying terrains. This report meticulously examines the available transportation infrastructure, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary arteries connecting Scottville to healthcare facilities are State Route 268 and US Highway 421. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours and are subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter months.

To reach Wilkes Medical Center in North Wilkesboro, a journey of approximately 15-20 miles, residents typically travel east on SR 268, then north on US 421. The drive, averaging 25-35 minutes, can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during morning and evening commutes.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger medical centers in Winston-Salem, a drive of approximately 60-70 miles. This journey involves navigating US 421 south, then connecting to I-40. This commute, taking approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, is heavily dependent on traffic conditions, especially around Winston-Salem.

The condition of these roads, especially SR 268 and US 421, directly impacts healthcare access. Potholes, poor lighting, and limited shoulder space can create hazardous conditions, particularly for elderly residents or those with pre-existing medical conditions. The long distances and potential for delays can also exacerbate health issues, especially in emergency situations.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within Scottville and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The Wilkes Transportation Authority (WTA) provides some fixed-route bus services, but these are primarily focused on serving the towns of Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro. These routes, such as Route 1 and Route 2, offer limited service to the surrounding rural areas, including Scottville.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical concern. While the WTA attempts to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) through features like wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, the limited frequency and coverage of the routes can pose significant challenges for those with mobility impairments.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access in Scottville. This limitation disproportionately affects those who cannot drive, lack access to a vehicle, or are unable to afford the costs associated with car ownership, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance. This is a key factor to consider when moving to Scottville.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Scottville is limited compared to more urban areas. While these services may be sporadically available, their reliability and affordability are not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are essential for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several private companies and local ambulance services operate in Wilkes County.

However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive for some residents. The availability of NEMT services may also be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially leading to delays in accessing healthcare. The reliance on these services highlights the critical need for accessible and affordable transportation options.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation infrastructure, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Scottville (ZIP code 28672) is **moderate**.

**Strengths:**

* **Proximity to Wilkes Medical Center:** Residents have relatively short drive times to a local hospital for basic medical needs.
* **Availability of Medical Transport:** Ambulance and NEMT services are available for those who require them.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Limited Public Transportation:** The lack of reliable public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Dependence on Personal Vehicles:** Long distances and potential traffic delays can hinder access to specialized care.
* **Limited Ride-Sharing Options:** The sporadic availability of ride-sharing services may not meet the needs of all residents.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden of vehicle ownership, fuel, and medical transport services can be a barrier to healthcare access for some.

**Recommendations:**

* **Expand Public Transportation:** Advocate for increased WTA service, particularly routes that connect Scottville to healthcare facilities.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Prioritize road maintenance and safety improvements on SR 268 and US 421.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Encourage collaborations between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies to provide affordable transportation options.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Ensure the availability of affordable and accessible NEMT services for all residents.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options and resources.

**Conclusion:**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and the availability of reliable transportation is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Scottville can receive the medical care they need. While the community has some strengths in terms of proximity to a local hospital and the availability of medical transport, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles pose significant challenges. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and services is essential for improving the Overall Health Score and ensuring the well-being of the Scottville community. For those considering moving to Scottville, understanding these transportation limitations is paramount for making an informed decision about their healthcare access and overall quality of life.