23418, Onley, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23418, Onley, Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.45 percent of residents in 23418 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.93 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23418

The quest for optimal healthcare access, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the local transportation landscape. This analysis, tailored for ZIP Code 23418, offers an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on the ease of commute to healthcare facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Onley, Virginia, and seeking to understand their healthcare accessibility options. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a detailed picture of transportation options.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 23418 is, of course, the ability to reach medical facilities. Driving remains a primary mode of transportation. Several major roadways facilitate this, with the most significant being US-13, a vital north-south artery. Driving to the nearest hospital, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onancock, Virginia, is a key consideration. Depending on the specific location within 23418, the drive time can vary, but generally, expect a commute of around 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

Another critical thoroughfare is VA-178, which intersects with US-13, offering alternative routes and access to various healthcare providers. Local roads like VA-600 (Chincoteague Road) and VA-605 (Parksley Road) provide further connectivity, allowing residents to reach primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities scattered throughout the area. Remember that traffic, especially during peak hours, can impact these drive times.

Public transportation, while present, is less robust in this rural setting. The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) offers a demand-response transportation service for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while providing a crucial lifeline for some, requires advance booking and is not a readily available, on-demand option. The ESAAA service does provide ADA-accessible vehicles.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system necessitates a reliance on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 23418, offering a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative to driving. However, availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is a key consideration.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical supervision during transport. Companies like MedTransport and American Medical Response (AMR) are potential options. These services often provide stretcher transport, wheelchair assistance, and trained medical personnel, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to and from medical appointments. The cost of these services can be substantial and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

The "Asthma Score" for 23418, therefore, is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of personal vehicles and the proximity to major roadways like US-13 and VA-178 contribute positively. However, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport, especially for those with asthma who may experience unexpected exacerbations, introduce challenges.

When considering healthcare access, it is crucial to factor in the location of various healthcare providers. Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital is the primary hospital, offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, specialist consultations, and inpatient care. Numerous primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and allergy specialists are also available in the area, though their precise locations and appointment availability should be investigated.

For individuals with asthma, proximity to urgent care facilities is paramount. These facilities provide immediate medical attention for asthma exacerbations, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing potential hospitalizations. The availability and accessibility of urgent care centers within a reasonable driving distance significantly impact the "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" also considers the ease of access to pharmacies for medication refills and the availability of respiratory therapists and other support services. Pharmacies are generally accessible within a short driving distance, but the availability of specialized respiratory care services may be more limited.

The overall "Asthma Score" for 23418 can be summarized as moderate. While the availability of personal transportation and the presence of a hospital are positive factors, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport introduce challenges. Individuals with asthma should carefully consider their transportation needs, assess the proximity to healthcare providers, and investigate the availability of support services before making a decision about moving to Onley.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" is not static. It can be improved by advocating for enhanced public transportation services, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of accessible medical transport services.

In conclusion, navigating the transportation landscape in 23418 requires careful planning and consideration. For individuals with asthma, understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. The "Asthma Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions about healthcare access in this unique rural environment. This is a vital consideration for those considering moving to Onley, Virginia, and seeking to maintain their health and well-being.