23505, Norfolk, Virginia Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 23505, Norfolk, Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.67 percent of residents in 23505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc with a distance of 3.80 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23505

The pursuit of well-being, especially for those managing arthritis, hinges on reliable access to healthcare. This write-up, crafted for individuals considering a move to Norfolk, Virginia, and specifically ZIP code 23505, offers an "Arthritis Score" assessment. It evaluates the ease of **transportation** to rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other essential medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview of **healthcare access** within this specific geographic area. The goal is to equip prospective residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about **moving to Norfolk**, ensuring their healthcare needs can be met effectively.

ZIP code 23505 encompasses a diverse area, including portions of downtown Norfolk, Ghent, and the historic Freemason District. This central location offers both advantages and challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. The proximity to major medical centers is a significant benefit, but navigating the city's traffic and public transit system requires careful consideration, especially for those with mobility limitations. This Arthritis Score aims to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Norfolk. The ease of access to healthcare providers in 23505 is significantly impacted by traffic patterns and the efficiency of the road network. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major healthcare hub, is centrally located. Accessing this facility from various points within 23505 is typically straightforward.

From the western edge of the zip code, along Granby Street, expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes to reach Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, assuming moderate traffic. This route primarily utilizes Granby Street, a major north-south thoroughfare. Similarly, driving from the eastern edge of the zip code, near the Elizabeth River, to the hospital will take roughly the same amount of time, using roadways like Brambleton Avenue and Olney Road.

For those traveling from the south, using the I-264, or the Downtown Expressway, can provide a faster route, particularly during off-peak hours. However, the I-264 can experience significant congestion during rush hour, potentially extending travel times to 20-30 minutes. The I-64, located to the north, offers an alternative route, but requires careful navigation of connecting roads to reach specific healthcare providers within 23505.

Parking availability at healthcare facilities is a crucial consideration. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital offers ample parking, but fees apply. Smaller clinics and private practices may have limited parking, potentially requiring patients to utilize street parking or nearby parking garages. Planning ahead and allowing extra time for parking is essential.

**Public Transit Options:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation services within Norfolk. Several bus routes serve the 23505 area, offering a valuable alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or who have limited mobility.

The primary bus routes that serve the area include the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 9. These routes connect various parts of the city, including downtown, Ghent, and the medical district. Route 1, for example, runs along Granby Street, providing direct access to several medical facilities. Route 2 travels east-west through the zip code, offering connections to other key areas.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps, wheelchair lifts, and designated seating areas. This makes public transit a viable option for individuals with mobility challenges. However, bus schedules and frequency can vary, and travel times can be longer than driving.

The Tide, Norfolk's light rail system, does not directly serve the heart of 23505. While the Tide offers a convenient way to travel between certain parts of the city, it does not offer direct access to many of the medical facilities within the zip code. Transfers to bus routes would be necessary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Norfolk and provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation, allowing individuals to request a ride directly from their location to their healthcare provider. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for those who are unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate traffic.

The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good within 23505. However, surge pricing may occur during peak hours or periods of high demand, potentially increasing the cost of transportation.

Medical transport services are also available in Norfolk, specifically catering to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services provide specialized transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers.

Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including, but not limited to, Med-Ride and American Medical Response. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing.

**Arthritis Score Assessment and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options within ZIP code 23505, the Arthritis Score reflects a moderate level of accessibility to healthcare. The area benefits from the proximity of major medical centers, the availability of public transit, and the convenience of ride-sharing services. However, challenges exist, including traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit routes, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport.

For individuals considering a move to 23505, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Prioritize proximity:** When searching for housing, consider locations within walking distance or easy access to public transit routes that serve healthcare facilities.
* **Explore public transit:** Familiarize yourself with HRT bus routes and schedules. Utilize the HRT website or app to plan trips and track bus locations.
* **Embrace ride-sharing:** Utilize ride-sharing services for convenient and on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments.
* **Investigate medical transport:** Research medical transport providers and determine if their services meet your specific needs.
* **Plan ahead:** Allow ample time for travel, especially during peak hours. Factor in parking availability and potential delays.
* **Communicate with providers:** Discuss transportation needs with your healthcare providers and explore any assistance they may offer.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning transportation, individuals with arthritis can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in 23505 and maintain their well-being. This Arthritis Score provides a foundation for informed decision-making, empowering individuals to make the best choice for their healthcare needs.