23457, Virginia Beach, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23457, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.88 percent of residents in 23457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chesapeake General Hospital with a distance of 14.22 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 23457

The salty air and coastal charm of Virginia Beach (ZIP Code 23457) beckon, yet for individuals managing asthma, the practicalities of healthcare access require careful consideration. This write-up, acting as an “Asthma Score” assessment, explores the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone contemplating a move, ensuring that healthcare access doesn’t become a barrier to enjoying the vibrant life this city offers.

The foundation of any Asthma Score lies in understanding drive times. For residents of 23457, the primary routes to healthcare facilities are well-established. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, a major medical center, sits strategically, often accessible within a 15-20 minute drive. This drive typically involves navigating **Independence Boulevard** and **First Colonial Road**, arteries that pulse with the city's life. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can extend these times, making real-time traffic monitoring essential.

For those seeking specialist care, the drive times expand. The **I-264** highway, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to hospitals and specialist practices further inland. Depending on the destination, travel times can range from 20 to 45 minutes, factoring in potential congestion. This is a crucial consideration, as asthma exacerbations demand swift medical attention. The **Virginia Beach Boulevard** corridor offers another route, though it often experiences heavier traffic.

Public transportation, while present, presents a more complex picture. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) operates bus routes throughout the city, offering a potential alternative to driving. Route 20, for example, runs along **Virginia Beach Boulevard**, providing access to several medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical aspect of the Asthma Score. HRT's buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential delays can be challenging for those experiencing an asthma flare-up. Waiting times at bus stops, especially during inclement weather, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. The availability of real-time tracking and accessible route planning is therefore crucial.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, bypassing the constraints of fixed bus schedules. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. During peak hours or periods of high demand, surge pricing can further inflate the cost, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like Care Ride and Medical Transport of Virginia Beach provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can incur additional costs.

The Asthma Score also considers the proximity of pharmacies. Access to medication is paramount for managing asthma. 23457 boasts numerous pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas and medical facilities is a positive factor in the overall score.

The ease of access to urgent care facilities also contributes to the Asthma Score. Several urgent care centers are located within the ZIP Code, providing immediate medical attention for less severe asthma exacerbations. These centers offer a crucial bridge between primary care physicians and emergency room visits, ensuring timely intervention.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care is a key consideration. Access to pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists is essential for comprehensive asthma management. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance, considering the transportation options available, significantly impacts the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for 23457 reveals a mixed picture. While the presence of major medical facilities and a network of roads and highways provides good access, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services create challenges. The score is further influenced by the availability of pharmacies, urgent care centers, and specialized asthma care.

For individuals with asthma, the ideal scenario involves living in close proximity to medical facilities and pharmacies, minimizing drive times. Careful consideration of transportation options, including public transit routes and ride-sharing services, is essential. Planning ahead and having a backup transportation plan, especially for unexpected asthma exacerbations, is crucial.

Moving to Virginia Beach with asthma requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. Researching the location of medical facilities, pharmacies, and transportation options is paramount. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician and a pulmonologist is essential. Familiarizing oneself with the local transportation landscape and developing a contingency plan for medical emergencies is critical for ensuring a high quality of life.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for 23457 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It should be continuously reevaluated based on individual needs, changes in healthcare access, and advancements in transportation options. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, individuals with asthma can thrive in this vibrant coastal community. The key is to prioritize healthcare access and to be prepared for any challenges that may arise, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Virginia Beach.