28701, Alexander, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28701, Alexander, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.35 percent of residents in 28701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Mission Hospital And Asheville Surgery Ce with a distance of 9.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28701

ZIP Code 28701, encompassing the charming town of Alexander, North Carolina, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning access to healthcare. Its rural setting and proximity to Asheville, a city known for its robust medical infrastructure, create a complex interplay of factors impacting residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This analysis will delve into the transportation landscape, examining drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, culminating in an overall health score assessment.

The primary challenge for residents of 28701 is the distance to healthcare facilities. While the town itself offers limited medical services, including a few primary care practices, specialized care and hospital services are primarily located in Asheville, approximately 10-15 miles away. This seemingly short distance translates to significantly longer commute times during peak hours.

The primary arteries connecting Alexander to Asheville are Interstate 26 (I-26) and US Highway 19/23, also known as the Smoky Mountain Expressway. During rush hour, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, I-26 experiences heavy congestion, often adding 30-45 minutes to the drive. US 19/23 offers an alternative route, but its winding nature and numerous traffic lights can also lead to delays. The ability to navigate these roads safely and efficiently is crucial for healthcare access, impacting everything from routine checkups to emergency situations.

Beyond the immediate commute to Asheville, access to specialized care may require travel to other locations, such as Charlotte or Winston-Salem, further complicating transportation logistics. These longer distances underscore the importance of reliable transportation options for residents with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized medical attention.

Public transportation in 28701, while available, presents significant limitations. The Asheville Transit System (ATS) provides bus service to the area, but the frequency and coverage are limited, especially during evenings and weekends. Route S2, the primary route serving the area, operates with hourly intervals, and the ADA accessibility of the buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. The availability of accessible routes and the reliability of the service directly impact healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

The topography of the area also influences the effectiveness of public transit. The mountainous terrain and narrow roads can make bus routes less efficient and more time-consuming. Furthermore, the lack of sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure in some areas can create challenges for those relying on public transportation to reach bus stops.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments, are another crucial component of healthcare access. Several companies operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical transport for patients with disabilities or requiring medical supervision during transit. These services can be essential for individuals who are unable to drive, lack access to reliable transportation, or have complex medical needs.

The availability and accessibility of medical transport services are particularly important for residents of 28701, given the distance to healthcare facilities and the limitations of public transportation. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant factor, and the availability of insurance coverage for medical transport varies.

When considering moving to Alexander, prospective residents should thoroughly evaluate their transportation needs and the healthcare options available. The ability to navigate the roadways, utilize public transit, or access ride-sharing services is critical for maintaining good health. The availability of medical transport services and the cost of these services should also be considered.

The overall health score for 28701, considering these transportation factors, is moderate. While Asheville's proximity offers access to a wide range of healthcare services, the challenges of commuting, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

The score is further influenced by the demographics of the area. Alexander, like many rural communities, has an aging population, increasing the demand for healthcare services and the need for reliable transportation options. The socioeconomic status of residents also plays a role, as those with lower incomes may face greater challenges in accessing transportation and affording healthcare costs.

The availability of healthcare providers within Alexander itself is also a factor. While the town offers some primary care services, the lack of specialized care facilities necessitates travel to Asheville or other locations. This further increases the reliance on transportation and underscores the importance of efficient and affordable commuting options.

To improve the overall health score, several initiatives could be implemented. Enhancing public transportation by increasing the frequency and coverage of bus routes, especially during evenings and weekends, would be beneficial. Improving the accessibility of bus stops and ensuring the availability of ADA-compliant buses are also crucial.

Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with medical transport services to offer subsidized transportation options for low-income residents could also significantly improve healthcare access. Furthermore, investing in pedestrian infrastructure, such as sidewalks and crosswalks, would enhance the safety and accessibility of public transportation for those who walk or use mobility devices.

Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is another important step. Providing information about bus routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Finally, encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within Alexander, such as specialized clinics or urgent care centers, would reduce the reliance on transportation and improve healthcare access for residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 28701 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The transportation landscape, including drive times on I-26 and US 19/23, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport services, significantly impacts residents' ability to access healthcare. While Asheville's proximity offers access to a wide range of services, the challenges of commuting and the limitations of transportation options create barriers for some residents. By addressing these challenges through strategic initiatives, such as enhancing public transportation, promoting ride-sharing programs, and investing in healthcare infrastructure, the overall health score for 28701 can be improved, ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.