23325, Chesapeake, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23325, Chesapeake, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.85 percent of residents in 23325 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Portsmouth with a distance of 4.18 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23325

Moving to a new area, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for ZIP Code 23325 in Chesapeake, Virginia, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, essential for managing this chronic respiratory condition. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a clear picture of the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers. The goal is to empower prospective residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring their well-being within this community.

ZIP Code 23325, encompassing a significant portion of Chesapeake, presents a varied landscape for transportation. Car ownership remains the dominant mode, influencing the availability of healthcare access. Understanding the road network is paramount. From the heart of this area, the primary thoroughfare is **Interstate 64 (I-64)**, offering relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist clinics. However, peak traffic hours on I-64, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times, exacerbating the stress associated with asthma exacerbations.

Beyond I-64, **U.S. Route 17 (George Washington Highway)** and **U.S. Route 13 (Military Highway)** serve as crucial arteries. These routes, while often less congested than I-64, can still experience delays, particularly near intersections and during rush hour. **Dominion Boulevard** and **Battlefield Boulevard** also offer alternative routes, but their reliance on traffic signals can lead to longer travel times. The efficient navigation of these roads is critical for individuals with asthma, as timely access to medical care can be life-saving.

The drive time to healthcare facilities is a critical component of our Asthma Score. **Sentara Obici Hospital**, located in Suffolk, is often a preferred choice for residents in the western part of 23325. The drive, primarily via I-64, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. **Chesapeake Regional Medical Center**, located closer to the center of the city, is generally accessible within 10 to 20 minutes via Dominion Boulevard or Battlefield Boulevard. **Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD)** in Norfolk, specializing in pediatric care, requires a drive of 20 to 40 minutes, usually involving I-64, making it a more considerable journey. These drive times underscore the importance of planning and preparedness for individuals with asthma.

Public transportation, while available, presents limitations in this area. The **Hampton Roads Transit (HRT)** system offers bus routes that serve parts of 23325. However, the frequency of service and route coverage are not as extensive as in more urban areas. Several routes, including **Route 14 (Great Bridge)**, **Route 19 (Greenbrier)**, and **Route 20 (Battlefield)**, provide connections to key areas within Chesapeake and to Norfolk. These routes can be useful, but their travel times are significantly longer than driving, and they may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with asthma, especially during severe episodes. HRT strives to provide accessible buses with ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the potential for long waits can pose challenges. The Asthma Score must reflect the limitations of public transit in this area, particularly for those requiring immediate medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative transportation option. These services can provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, offering a degree of flexibility. However, the availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, making it a less sustainable option for frequent medical appointments. The Asthma Score acknowledges the convenience of ride-sharing while considering its limitations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a vital lifeline. **Medicaid** and some private insurance plans often cover these services, which provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with severe asthma who may require assistance with oxygen or other medical equipment. The Asthma Score recognizes the importance of medical transportation for those requiring specialized care.

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 23325, considering transportation options, reveals a mixed picture. While the road network offers relatively good access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion, particularly on I-64, can pose challenges. Public transit provides limited coverage and longer travel times. Ride-sharing offers a convenient but potentially expensive option, while medical transportation services cater to specific needs.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Chesapeake, careful planning is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare providers, understanding traffic patterns, and exploring available transportation options are crucial steps. The Asthma Score, based on the information provided, should be viewed as a dynamic tool, prompting further research and personalized assessment. Contacting healthcare providers, HRT, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers is crucial for obtaining up-to-date information.

Ultimately, the success of managing asthma in ZIP Code 23325 depends on proactive planning and the utilization of available resources. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions that support their health and well-being. The key to a positive healthcare experience lies in preparing for potential challenges and leveraging the available support systems. This information is a starting point, enabling prospective residents to navigate the complexities of healthcare access and make Chesapeake their home.