23454, Virginia Beach, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23454, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.90 percent of residents in 23454 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 2.33 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 23454

Considering a move to the vibrant coastal community of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and concerned about asthma management? This detailed exploration of transportation options in ZIP code 23454 is designed to help you assess healthcare access and determine your personal "Asthma Score." We'll delve into the realities of commuting to medical appointments, accounting for potential challenges and offering insights to inform your decision.

ZIP code 23454, encompassing areas like Kempsville and parts of Green Run, is a sprawling residential zone. Its transportation landscape is a complex tapestry woven with personal vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services. The ease of navigating this network directly impacts healthcare access, particularly crucial for individuals managing asthma. Your ability to reach specialists, pharmacies, and emergency care facilities becomes a critical factor in your overall well-being.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in 23454 are Interstate 64 (I-64) and Interstate 264 (I-264). I-64 serves as the major east-west corridor, connecting Virginia Beach to Norfolk and beyond. I-264, running east-west, provides direct access to the Oceanfront and downtown areas. These interstates, however, can be prone to congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, potentially extending drive times and increasing exposure to vehicle emissions – a significant trigger for asthma.

Local roads like Kempsville Road, Princess Anne Road, and Holland Road are crucial for navigating within the ZIP code. These thoroughfares, while offering convenient access to local amenities, can also experience heavy traffic, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. Consider these factors when planning your commute to medical appointments, especially if you have children with asthma attending local schools.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and around 23454 can vary significantly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is located on First Colonial Road, a major thoroughfare. Expect a drive time of 15-30 minutes from most parts of 23454 during non-peak hours, but this could easily double during rush hour. Similarly, access to specialists located in the medical complexes near Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk, accessible via I-64, could take 20-45 minutes, again subject to traffic fluctuations.

Public transportation, managed by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve 23454, including routes 20, 22, and 24. Route 20, for example, connects Kempsville to the Oceanfront, while Route 22 provides access to the Lynnhaven Mall area. Route 24 serves the Green Run area. While these routes provide a valuable service, they may not always be the most convenient option for those with asthma.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, bus schedules can be infrequent, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially when considering transfers. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens and pollutants within the bus environment should be considered. Waiting at bus stops, particularly during inclement weather, can also exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option in 23454. These services provide on-demand transportation and can be a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, ride-sharing fares can fluctuate based on demand, and the availability of drivers may vary, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. Additionally, the potential for exposure to allergens or strong scents within the vehicle should be considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services provide transportation in specialized vehicles, often equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. While NEMT services can be helpful, they typically require advance booking and may involve additional costs.

When calculating your personal "Asthma Score," consider the following factors: the distance to your preferred healthcare providers, the availability and reliability of transportation options, your sensitivity to environmental triggers, and your personal preferences. Factor in the potential for traffic delays, the frequency of public transit routes, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

For example, if you regularly need to visit a pulmonologist located near Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, and you live in the Kempsville area, your "Asthma Score" might be influenced by the potential for traffic delays on Kempsville Road and First Colonial Road. If you rely on public transit, your score would be affected by the frequency of the Route 20 bus and the potential for longer travel times.

The air quality in Virginia Beach, while generally good, can be affected by seasonal changes, pollen counts, and air pollution from vehicle emissions. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) provides air quality data, which can be a valuable resource for monitoring potential asthma triggers. Regularly checking the air quality index (AQI) and adjusting your activities accordingly can help you manage your asthma effectively.

Moving to Virginia Beach, and specifically ZIP code 23454, requires careful consideration of your healthcare needs. The transportation landscape, while offering a variety of options, presents unique challenges for individuals with asthma. By carefully evaluating the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services, you can create a personalized plan to ensure reliable and accessible healthcare access.

Ultimately, your "Asthma Score" is a personalized assessment. It should reflect your individual needs, preferences, and risk factors. By proactively researching transportation options, understanding potential environmental triggers, and developing a comprehensive asthma management plan, you can confidently navigate the transportation landscape of 23454 and enjoy the benefits of living in this vibrant coastal community.