28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.21 percent of residents in 28783 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Harris Regional Hospital with a distance of 11.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28783 (Tuckasegee, NC)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 28783, encompassing the charming community of Tuckasegee, requires a deep dive into the critical element of healthcare access. This assessment considers the various transportation options available, recognizing that the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities directly impact health outcomes. Factors such as drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services are all meticulously examined.

The geographical layout of Tuckasegee, nestled within the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The primary method of transportation for most residents is by personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare often necessitates navigating winding roads and traversing distances, which can be particularly difficult for those with mobility limitations or without personal transportation.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a crucial indicator. The closest hospital, Harris Regional Hospital, is located in Sylva, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via **US-19/74** and **NC-107**. For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Asheville, which is roughly a 1 hour and 15-minute to 1 hour and 30-minute drive via **US-74 ALT** and **I-26**. These drive times, while manageable, underscore the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to traffic or inclement weather.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 28783 are limited. The primary provider is the Western Carolina Regional Transportation Authority (WCRTA), offering fixed-route bus services. However, these routes are not extensive, and coverage within Tuckasegee itself is minimal. The availability of these routes, and their frequency, is crucial for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

The WCRTA does provide some routes that might be relevant to accessing healthcare. Route 107, for example, travels between Sylva and Cullowhee, potentially connecting residents to healthcare facilities. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are generally available on WCRTA buses, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the limited route coverage and frequency can still pose significant challenges to healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as pervasive as in larger urban centers. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations within the ZIP Code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further complicating healthcare access.

Medical transport services are an essential component of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized medical attention. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides to and from medical appointments.

Key medical transport brands serving the area include Rural Metro Ambulance and MedTrans. These services are crucial for those who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical factors in determining the overall health score.

Considering the factors outlined, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 28783 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some support, but their limitations must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Tuckasegee, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is essential. The ability to drive or have access to reliable transportation is a significant factor in maintaining good health. The availability of public transportation, while limited, provides an alternative for some residents. The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers additional support.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals directly impacts the ease of accessing care. While Tuckasegee itself may have limited healthcare facilities, the proximity to Sylva and Asheville provides access to a wider range of services.

To improve the overall health score, efforts should be made to enhance public transportation options, particularly those connecting Tuckasegee to healthcare facilities. Increasing the frequency of existing routes and expanding route coverage would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Promoting the use of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and ensuring their affordability, would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, initiatives to encourage the recruitment and retention of healthcare providers within the community would improve the overall health score. The presence of more healthcare professionals would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care, improving convenience and potentially reducing healthcare costs.

In conclusion, while residents of ZIP Code 28783 have access to healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents some challenges. The overall health score is moderate, reflecting the need for improvements in public transportation, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Tuckasegee, as they directly impact the ability to access and maintain good health. The community's commitment to improving transportation and healthcare access will ultimately lead to a healthier and more vibrant community for all residents.