28805, Asheville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.89 percent of residents in 28805 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Asheville-Oteen Va Medical Center with a distance of 0.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28805

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Asheville's 28805 ZIP code necessitates a deep dive into their ability to access healthcare. This analysis considers the multifaceted challenges of **transportation**, encompassing both time and ease of travel, alongside the availability of medical facilities. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Asheville**, as it directly impacts their well-being and quality of life.

The 28805 ZIP code, nestled within the vibrant heart of Asheville, offers residents a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. However, the topography, with its winding roads and mountainous terrain, presents significant hurdles when it comes to healthcare access. Understanding these challenges is paramount to evaluating the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways: Navigating the Terrain**

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and around 28805 are the Interstate 26 (I-26), US Highway 19/23 (often referred to as the "Future I-26"), and the Blue Ridge Parkway. These roadways serve as the lifelines connecting residents to essential services, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical facilities.

Driving times can vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. During peak hours, congestion on I-26 and US 19/23 can substantially increase travel times, particularly around the Asheville Mall area and the interchanges with major thoroughfares. The Blue Ridge Parkway, while offering breathtaking scenery, is not a practical route for urgent medical needs.

For residents seeking primary care physicians, the drive to practices located in downtown Asheville, such as those along Biltmore Avenue or Merrimon Avenue, typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Accessing Mission Hospital, the region's largest medical center, located near the intersection of I-26 and US 19/23, might require a 15 to 30-minute drive, depending on the origin point within 28805.

Specialized clinics and facilities, such as those offering cancer treatment or cardiac care, may be located further afield, potentially adding considerable time to the commute. Understanding these variations in drive times is crucial for assessing the overall health score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The Asheville Transit System (ATS) provides public **transportation** within the city limits. However, its reach within 28805, and its efficacy in facilitating healthcare access, is limited. The routes serving this ZIP code, primarily the S1 and S2 routes, offer some connectivity to downtown and the Asheville Mall area, but they may not directly serve all medical facilities.

The ATS operates with varying frequency, with reduced service on weekends and evenings. This can pose significant challenges for individuals requiring regular medical appointments or experiencing urgent health needs. Furthermore, the ATS's route network may not be optimized for direct access to healthcare facilities, requiring transfers and potentially extending travel times.

The ATS does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the overall limitations of the public transit system in terms of coverage, frequency, and direct access to medical facilities contribute to a lower overall health score for residents relying on this mode of **transportation**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option for accessing healthcare in 28805. These services provide on-demand rides, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by CareRide and First Medical Transportation, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible for all residents.

These alternative **transportation** options play a crucial role in mitigating some of the challenges associated with healthcare access in 28805. However, their limitations, including cost, availability, and potential wait times, must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The proximity of healthcare facilities within and near 28805 is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. While Mission Hospital is a major regional provider, it is important to assess the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics within a reasonable distance.

The concentration of medical facilities in the downtown area and along major roadways, such as Biltmore Avenue, provides residents with some access to healthcare services. However, the availability of appointments, particularly for specialists, can be a challenge. Furthermore, the specific healthcare needs of residents, including access to mental health services, dental care, and specialized treatment options, must be considered.

**Overall Health Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The overall health score for residents of 28805 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and the proximity and availability of healthcare facilities. While the presence of major roadways and ride-sharing services offers some advantages, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of alternative **transportation** options pose significant challenges.

For individuals **moving to Asheville**, a thorough assessment of these factors is essential. The overall health score is not simply a measure of the number of medical facilities in the area, but a comprehensive evaluation of the ease and efficiency with which residents can access the healthcare they need.

The 28805 ZIP code presents a mixed bag. While residents enjoy the benefits of a vibrant city and access to major roadways, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion can negatively impact healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides some relief, but their cost and availability remain concerns.

Ultimately, the overall health score for 28805 reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. This includes exploring ways to enhance public transit, promote the use of ride-sharing services, and ensure the availability of affordable medical **transportation** options. These improvements will ultimately contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community for all residents, especially those considering **moving to Asheville**.