28707, Balsam, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28707, Balsam, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.87 percent of residents in 28707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Mission Hospital And Asheville Surgery Ce with a distance of 9.69 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: ZIP Code 28707 (Balsam, North Carolina)**

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, ZIP Code 28707, encompassing the charming community of Balsam, presents a unique tapestry of health and well-being. While the crisp mountain air and serene landscapes offer inherent benefits, the practicalities of healthcare access paint a more nuanced picture. This overall health score considers the challenges and opportunities related to transportation, a crucial factor in determining the ease with which residents can receive necessary medical care. The analysis explores drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions, offering a comprehensive assessment for those considering moving to Balsam.

The primary challenge in 28707 is the geographical isolation. The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure significantly impact transportation options. This isolation directly affects healthcare access, demanding careful consideration of the available routes and resources. The overall health score, therefore, will be influenced by the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation, and the availability of support services for residents.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary artery connecting Balsam to the broader healthcare network is US-19/74, a winding highway that snakes its way through the mountains. This road, while scenic, can be treacherous, particularly during inclement weather. The drive to the nearest major healthcare facility, Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive, though relatively short, can be a significant barrier for those with urgent medical needs.

Further afield, the drive to Asheville, offering a wider range of specialized medical services, is considerably longer. The journey typically involves navigating US-19/74 to I-40 East, a major interstate. This trip can easily consume an hour and a half to two hours, making it a considerable commitment for routine appointments or emergency situations. The condition of US-19/74, especially during winter months, can add further unpredictability to these travel times.

Smaller, local roads, such as Balsam Road and Old Balsam Road, provide alternative routes within the immediate vicinity. However, these roads are often narrow, winding, and poorly maintained, making them unsuitable for emergency medical transport or for those with mobility limitations. These local roads offer limited value to healthcare access.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in 28707 are extremely limited. The county, Jackson County, does operate a public transit system, but its reach is sparse, and its services are primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The routes are not well-integrated with the healthcare system, and schedules may not align with the needs of patients.

The primary public transit option is the Jackson County Transit system. However, the system's routes are limited, and it may not serve the immediate Balsam area. Even if a route is available, the frequency of service is often insufficient for timely access to medical appointments. Furthermore, ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are available on the buses, but the limited service area and infrequent schedules pose significant challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which is limited in this rural region. Relying on ride-sharing for critical healthcare appointments is, therefore, risky. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer trips to Asheville, can also be a significant financial burden for many residents.

Medical transport services, specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, are available. These services, such as MedTrans and First Medical Transport, provide door-to-door transportation for patients needing assistance. However, these services come at a cost, often not covered by insurance, and require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent situations. The availability of these services may also be limited, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations**

The overall health score for 28707 is significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. While the community offers a peaceful and healthy environment, the limited access to healthcare facilities is a major concern. The drive times to the nearest hospitals, the sparse public transportation options, and the unreliable ride-sharing services create significant barriers for residents needing medical care.

Those considering moving to Balsam should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Individuals with chronic illnesses or mobility limitations may find it particularly challenging to access regular medical care. The availability of telehealth services, offering remote consultations, may help mitigate some of these challenges, but it is not a complete solution.

The community's efforts to improve healthcare access are crucial. This includes advocating for expanded public transportation, attracting more healthcare providers to the area, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to improve availability and affordability. The overall health score will improve as these initiatives develop.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for 28707 is moderate, reflecting the trade-offs between the benefits of a rural lifestyle and the challenges of healthcare access. The beauty of the region and the quality of life are undeniable, but the transportation limitations present a significant hurdle.

**Recommendations**

For residents of 28707, it is important to plan for healthcare needs in advance. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, understanding the available transportation options, and exploring telehealth services.

For those considering moving to Balsam, a thorough assessment of healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Careful consideration of the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services is crucial. The overall health score reflects the need for proactive planning and adaptation to ensure access to quality medical care.

The future of healthcare access in 28707 depends on community efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, attract healthcare providers, and expand telehealth services. The overall health score will evolve as these initiatives progress, creating a healthier and more accessible environment for all residents.