28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.28 percent of residents in 28775 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highlands Cashiers Hospital with a distance of 9.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Scaly Mountain (ZIP Code 28775)

Scaly Mountain, nestled amongst the majestic peaks of North Carolina, offers a serene escape for those seeking a life immersed in nature. But the allure of mountain living presents unique challenges, particularly concerning healthcare access. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 28775, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Scaly Mountain, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The health score considers various elements, including drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. Each component is carefully evaluated to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape within reach of Scaly Mountain residents. This assessment aims to guide potential residents in making informed choices, ensuring their health needs can be met effectively within their chosen community.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Scaly Mountain is the necessity of personal **transportation**. The mountainous terrain and sparse population density limit the availability of public transit. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel by car.

Driving times are significantly impacted by the winding mountain roads and the limited number of direct routes. Residents must navigate the challenges of traversing the region's geography, influencing their ability to reach healthcare providers promptly. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities involves utilizing **US Highway 64** and **US Highway 23/74**, which connect Scaly Mountain to larger towns like Franklin and Asheville.

The drive to Franklin, the closest town with a hospital, Mission Hospital McDowell, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey involves navigating the twists and turns of US Highway 64, which can be particularly challenging during inclement weather.

For more specialized medical care, residents often travel to Asheville, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. This longer journey involves traveling on US Highway 64 to US Highway 23/74, a major highway that provides access to Asheville and its comprehensive healthcare facilities, including Mission Hospital, the largest hospital in the region.

The availability of public **transportation** in Scaly Mountain is extremely limited. The local area does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The absence of accessible public transportation significantly affects the health score, particularly for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. These individuals may face considerable difficulties in attending medical appointments, accessing pharmacies, and obtaining necessary healthcare services.

While public transit options are scarce, there are a few options for those who need them. The **Mountain Mobility** program provides transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities in Macon County, but it is not always available for same-day requests.

The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** features on the limited transit options are not readily available. This lack of accessibility further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, hindering their ability to access healthcare services independently.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas like Scaly Mountain. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as wait times can be long, and availability is not guaranteed. This uncertainty can create significant stress for individuals needing to attend medical appointments on time.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and specialized transport companies, are available for emergency situations and for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. However, these services can be costly and may not be readily available for routine medical needs.

**Medical transport** services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical attention during transport. However, the cost and availability of these services can significantly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score for Scaly Mountain (ZIP Code 28775) is moderately impacted by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The primary concern is the reliance on personal **transportation** and the limited availability of alternative options. The long drive times to healthcare facilities, coupled with the lack of public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services, pose significant barriers for some residents.

The score is also affected by the potential for adverse weather conditions and the winding mountain roads, which can make travel more difficult and time-consuming. The absence of readily available ADA-compliant transportation further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

To improve the health score, efforts are needed to enhance healthcare access. This could involve exploring options for expanding public transit, partnering with ride-sharing services to improve availability, or investing in telemedicine initiatives to bring healthcare services directly to residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Scaly Mountain**, it is essential to carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges. Understanding the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial for making informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The overall health score for Scaly Mountain is influenced by the availability of healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. While the town itself may lack extensive medical infrastructure, residents have access to hospitals and specialized care in nearby towns like Franklin and Asheville.

The presence of these facilities, while requiring travel, does provide a safety net for residents. The quality of care available in these hospitals and medical centers is generally high, offering a range of medical services to meet the needs of the community.

The health score is also influenced by the local community's health initiatives and resources. The availability of community health programs, wellness centers, and support groups can contribute to the overall well-being of residents.

Access to these resources can help residents maintain their health, prevent illness, and manage chronic conditions. The presence of a supportive community network can also enhance the overall health score by providing social support and promoting a sense of well-being.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Scaly Mountain (ZIP Code 28775) reflects the unique challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in a mountainous rural community. The reliance on personal **transportation**, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times present significant challenges. However, the presence of healthcare facilities in nearby towns, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the potential for community health initiatives offer opportunities for improvement. Prospective residents must carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare needs and making decisions about **moving to Scaly Mountain**. Prioritizing healthcare access is essential for ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in this beautiful mountain community.