28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.85 percent of residents in 28791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Margaret R Pardee Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28791

This report provides an overall health score assessment for residents of ZIP Code 28791 (Hendersonville, North Carolina) concerning their access to healthcare, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation. The score considers various modes of transport, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This analysis is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Hendersonville, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The health score is not a single numerical value but a nuanced evaluation reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical services. It considers factors like travel time, cost, availability, and the specific needs of diverse populations, including those with disabilities or limited mobility. The assessment aims to highlight potential barriers and suggest strategies for improving healthcare access within the community.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 28791 is personal vehicles. The area's layout, coupled with the limited public transit options, makes driving the most common and often the most convenient choice. However, this reliance on personal vehicles presents several challenges. Residents must factor in the cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees at medical facilities. Furthermore, the availability of a personal vehicle is not guaranteed for all residents, particularly those with lower incomes or mobility limitations.

Driving times to healthcare facilities in 28791 vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. The primary thoroughfare, US-64, is a major artery, connecting Hendersonville to surrounding areas. Traffic congestion on US-64, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, particularly when accessing facilities located further afield. Secondary routes, such as US-25 and NC-280, provide alternative routes, but they can also experience congestion. The presence of numerous stoplights and intersections further contributes to potential delays. Accessing facilities in Asheville, a larger city with a more comprehensive healthcare system, requires travel on I-26, which can be subject to traffic, particularly during tourist season.

Public transportation options in 28791 are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The Henderson County Transportation Authority (HCTA) operates a bus system, but its routes and frequency may not adequately serve all areas, especially those located outside the immediate town center. The HCTA's routes are not always designed with healthcare access as a primary consideration, and the schedules may not align with the operating hours of medical facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, but the reliability and coverage of these services should be carefully evaluated. The HCTA's website provides detailed route maps and schedules, but the system's overall impact on healthcare access requires a thorough assessment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in 28791 may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for individuals with chronic health conditions or those needing frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as delays or cancellations can disrupt healthcare schedules.

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring ambulance services or non-emergency medical transportation. These services are essential for patients who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and access may be limited for certain insurance plans. The coordination of medical transport with healthcare appointments is crucial to ensure timely and efficient care.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 28791 is moderate. While driving offers the most convenient option for many residents, the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport create significant challenges for certain populations. These challenges include travel time, cost, and availability, which can impact healthcare utilization and overall health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Hendersonville, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their individual healthcare needs and consider the availability of transportation options that meet those needs. Those with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations may need to prioritize living in areas with better public transit access or readily available ride-sharing services.

To improve the health score, several strategies can be implemented. Expanding the HCTA's routes and increasing the frequency of service, especially to areas with high concentrations of healthcare facilities, would significantly improve healthcare access. Investing in ADA-accessible buses and ensuring the reliability of these services is also essential.

Collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations is crucial. This collaboration can facilitate the coordination of transportation services, reduce costs, and improve the efficiency of healthcare access. Promoting awareness of available transportation options and providing assistance to individuals who need help navigating the system is also essential.

Furthermore, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation for medical appointments could improve affordability and access. Encouraging the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can also reduce the need for in-person visits and alleviate transportation burdens.

The implementation of these strategies would contribute to a more equitable and accessible healthcare system in 28791. Addressing the transportation challenges is essential for improving the overall health and well-being of all residents, making Hendersonville a more attractive place to live and thrive.

The health score for 28791 is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can be improved through strategic investments and community-based initiatives. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and ensure that transportation solutions effectively meet the evolving needs of the community. The goal is to create a healthcare system where transportation is not a barrier but a facilitator of health and well-being for all residents.