23359, Hallwood, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23359, Hallwood, Virginia is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.94 percent of residents in 23359 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 14.03 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hallwood (ZIP Code 23359)

Hallwood, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Accomack County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, especially for residents managing asthma. This write-up, a crucial component of an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 23359, meticulously examining drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for individuals and families contemplating a move to Hallwood, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The primary mode of transportation in Hallwood, as with much of rural Accomack County, is the personal vehicle. The sprawling geography necessitates reliance on cars for almost all errands, including healthcare appointments. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Salisbury, Maryland, and Onancock, Virginia.

**Drive Times & Roadways:**

Accessing healthcare by car requires navigating a network of highways and local roads. The primary artery connecting Hallwood to the outside world is **US-13**, a major north-south thoroughfare running along the Eastern Shore. Heading north on US-13, the drive to Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Maryland, a comprehensive hospital, typically takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Hallwood.

Southbound on US-13 leads to Onancock, Virginia, home to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital, a smaller facility offering a range of services. The drive to Onancock usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. However, this shorter distance doesn't necessarily translate to better healthcare access, as the scope of services offered is more limited compared to Peninsula Regional.

Other roads, such as **VA-179** and various local routes, provide alternative paths, but they often involve longer travel times and may be less well-maintained. These roads are essential for reaching local doctors' offices and pharmacies, often located in smaller towns and communities scattered throughout the area. Traffic is generally light, but seasonal variations, particularly during peak tourist seasons, can impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Hallwood are extremely limited. The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) provides demand-response transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while vital for those who qualify, is not a readily available option for the general public and requires advance booking. The service is ADA-compliant, offering wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations. However, its limited operating hours and the necessity of pre-scheduling significantly restrict its utility for routine healthcare appointments.

The lack of robust public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, especially those who may experience sudden exacerbations. Relying on public transportation for urgent medical care is often impractical, emphasizing the critical need for reliable personal transportation or readily available alternatives.

**Ride-Share & Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent and availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of Hallwood. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments is therefore risky, as delays or unavailability could jeopardize timely medical attention.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution. These companies typically provide transportation for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of NEMT services can vary, and it is crucial to research and identify reliable providers in advance.

**Healthcare Access & Asthma Management:**

The transportation challenges in Hallwood directly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. The distance to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing all contribute to potential delays in accessing care. These delays can be particularly detrimental for asthma sufferers, who may require immediate medical attention during an asthma attack.

The Asthma Score for Hallwood must reflect these realities. It should account for the drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics, the availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. This score should also consider the availability of local pharmacies for medication refills and the presence of asthma specialists in the area.

**Moving to Hallwood: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Hallwood, careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive or secure reliable transportation. They should also investigate the availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and allergists.

Planning for potential emergencies is also crucial. This includes having a readily available emergency plan, knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facilities, and having a backup transportation plan in case of an asthma attack. The Asthma Score, when considered alongside other factors, provides a valuable framework for evaluating the suitability of Hallwood for individuals managing asthma.

**Conclusion:**

The transportation landscape in Hallwood presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare access, particularly for individuals with asthma. While the area offers a peaceful and rural setting, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and preparedness. The Asthma Score must accurately reflect these realities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being when considering a move to Hallwood. Understanding the intricacies of transportation, healthcare access, and the resources available within ZIP Code 23359 is vital for ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in this unique community.