23310, Cape Charles, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23310, Cape Charles, Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.90 percent of residents in 23310 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is 633rd Medical Group (Joint Base Langley-Eustis) with a distance of 25.55 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23310

The allure of coastal living, the charm of a historic town, the promise of a slower pace – these are all part of the appeal of moving to Cape Charles, Virginia (ZIP Code 23310). However, for individuals managing asthma, the practicalities of healthcare access must be carefully considered. This Asthma Score write-up will dissect the transportation landscape in and around 23310, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, a crucial factor for residents with respiratory conditions.

Understanding the transportation environment is paramount. Efficient and reliable transportation is not merely a convenience; it’s a lifeline. For those with asthma, quick access to medical care during an exacerbation can be the difference between a manageable episode and a serious emergency. This score will evaluate the options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure.

The primary artery connecting Cape Charles to the broader healthcare network is Route 13, also known as the Eastern Shore of Virginia Highway. This two-lane highway is the main conduit for accessing larger medical facilities located in nearby towns like Exmore (approximately 20 minutes away) and Onancock (about 30 minutes). However, during peak tourist seasons or inclement weather, traffic congestion on Route 13 can significantly extend drive times, potentially delaying critical medical attention. The road conditions themselves can be a factor, too.

The secondary road network consists of local roads like Route 600 (Occohannock Neck Road) and Route 642 (Stone Road), which offer alternative routes but are often narrow and winding. These roads might be preferable for avoiding traffic on Route 13, but they could be less accessible for larger vehicles or those with mobility limitations. These roads are also less likely to be cleared quickly after a storm.

Public transportation options are limited in 23310. The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) provides demand-response transportation services primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While these services are ADA-compliant, with lift-equipped vehicles, they require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The availability of these services is also limited by operating hours and geographical reach.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in Cape Charles and the surrounding areas. Their presence fluctuates depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on these services for urgent medical transportation is, therefore, risky. This lack of readily accessible ride-sharing options highlights a significant gap in healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are crucial components of the healthcare access infrastructure. In 23310, emergency medical services are provided by the Northampton County Department of Public Safety. Response times can vary depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of resources. Non-emergency medical transport services, designed for scheduled appointments and routine medical care, may be available from private providers. These services typically require pre-booking and can have varying costs and service areas.

The distance to hospitals and specialized medical facilities is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. The closest hospital is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onancock, offering a range of medical services, including emergency care and respiratory therapy. However, the drive time of approximately 30 minutes can be a concern during an asthma exacerbation. For specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Norfolk or Virginia Beach, which can involve a drive of two to three hours, significantly impacting healthcare access.

The availability of pharmacies and prescription services within 23310 is another crucial element. Access to medications, including rescue inhalers and maintenance medications, is vital for asthma management. The presence of local pharmacies ensures that residents can quickly and easily obtain their prescriptions. However, the limited number of pharmacies in the area may necessitate travel to neighboring towns to fill prescriptions, potentially adding to the transportation burden.

The Asthma Score also considers the accessibility of primary care physicians and specialists. Regular check-ups and ongoing medical management are essential for asthma patients. The availability of local healthcare providers, including general practitioners, pulmonologists, and allergists, reduces the need for extensive travel and improves healthcare access. The proximity of these providers to public transportation routes is also a factor.

The impact of seasonal variations on transportation must be considered. Cape Charles is a popular tourist destination, and the influx of visitors during the summer months can lead to increased traffic congestion on Route 13 and other roadways. This increased traffic can significantly impact drive times to medical facilities, potentially delaying access to care during an asthma emergency. Winter weather, including snow and ice, can also disrupt transportation, making it challenging to access medical services.

The cost of transportation is another important aspect of the Asthma Score. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can be a significant financial burden. The cost of using ride-sharing services or medical transportation services can also be substantial. The availability of financial assistance programs or subsidies for transportation can help mitigate the financial barriers to healthcare access.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 23310 reflects a complex transportation landscape. While the area offers the charm of coastal living, it also presents challenges to healthcare access for asthma patients. The reliance on Route 13, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the distance to specialized medical facilities create potential barriers to timely and effective medical care. Residents with asthma considering moving to Cape Charles must carefully weigh these transportation factors and develop a comprehensive plan for managing their healthcare needs. This plan should include a reliable transportation strategy, a clear understanding of local healthcare resources, and a proactive approach to asthma management.