23314, Carrollton, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23314, Carrollton, Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.55 percent of residents in 23314 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Regional Medical Center with a distance of 9.09 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carrollton (ZIP Code 23314)

For individuals considering a move to Carrollton, Virginia (ZIP code 23314), and managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape, providing insights into commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services to facilitate healthcare access. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, necessitates timely and reliable access to medical care, making transportation a critical factor in assessing the suitability of a location.

Carrollton, a charming community nestled in Isle of Wight County, presents a unique transportation profile. Unlike densely populated urban areas, Carrollton relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. This reliance shapes the accessibility of healthcare facilities, particularly for those with asthma who may experience breathing difficulties during commutes. The Asthma Score considers this reliance, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach their doctors, specialists, and emergency care.

**Driving Dynamics: The Road to Healthcare**

The primary arteries connecting Carrollton to healthcare providers are the major roadways. Route 17, a vital north-south corridor, offers access to facilities in Smithfield and Newport News. The drive to Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, a significant healthcare provider for the region, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Route 17 and Route 10. This drive time, while manageable, can be a concern during peak traffic hours or in the event of an asthma exacerbation requiring immediate medical attention.

Route 10, another critical east-west artery, provides access to healthcare facilities in Smithfield and connects to Interstate 664, which offers quicker access to hospitals and specialists in the Hampton Roads area. However, traffic congestion on I-664, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the health of an individual experiencing an asthma attack.

Navigating the local roads, such as Carrollton Boulevard, can offer alternative routes, but these roads are often slower and may not be suitable for urgent medical situations. The Asthma Score considers these variables, acknowledging the importance of efficient and reliable transportation for individuals managing asthma. The ease of access via personal vehicle is a key factor in determining the overall score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Carrollton are limited, posing a challenge for individuals relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system, while serving the broader Hampton Roads area, has a limited presence in Carrollton. Bus routes primarily operate along major thoroughfares, with infrequent service to more remote areas.

While HRT offers some routes that may connect to healthcare facilities, the travel times are often significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, should be verified. The Asthma Score acknowledges the limitations of public transit, recognizing that it may not be a viable option for many residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments or experiencing asthma-related emergencies.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Carrollton, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide or other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services may require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options. The Asthma Score considers the availability and cost of these services, recognizing their potential value for individuals with asthma.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Specialization**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score. Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care and specialized asthma treatment. The drive time to this facility, typically 20-30 minutes, is a significant consideration.

Specialist care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, may require travel to facilities in Newport News or Norfolk. The Asthma Score considers the travel times to these specialists, acknowledging the importance of access to specialized medical expertise for effective asthma management.

**Moving to Carrollton: Asthma Score Considerations**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Carrollton, the Asthma Score provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access. The score considers the following key factors:

* **Drive times:** The time required to reach healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Public transit:** The availability and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-sharing and medical transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of alternative transportation services.
* **Healthcare proximity:** The proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized asthma care.

The Asthma Score for Carrollton (ZIP code 23314) reflects the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the drive times and potential traffic congestion require careful consideration. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability should be evaluated.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score aims to empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare access when considering a move to Carrollton. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care, contributing to effective asthma management and a higher quality of life. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the potential need for alternative transportation strategies to navigate the challenges of healthcare access in this charming, yet car-dependent, community.