23608, Newport News, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23608, Newport News, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.26 percent of residents in 23608 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Newport News, VA (ZIP Code 23608)

Relocating to a new city, especially with a chronic condition like asthma, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 23608 in Newport News, Virginia, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing medical care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the ease—or difficulty—of getting to your doctor's appointments.

The air quality in Newport News, influenced by its coastal location and industrial activity, can fluctuate. This makes reliable and efficient transportation to healthcare facilities paramount for asthma sufferers. The ability to quickly access medication, specialist appointments, and emergency care can significantly impact the quality of life for those managing this respiratory condition.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. In 23608, several major roadways facilitate access to healthcare facilities. Interstate 64 (I-64) is a critical artery, offering relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist offices located along its corridor. Traffic, however, can be a significant factor, especially during peak commuting hours.

Traveling east on I-64, you'll find Sentara CarePlex Hospital in Hampton, a facility that offers comprehensive respiratory care. The drive, typically 15-20 minutes in off-peak hours, can stretch to 30-45 minutes during rush hour. Westbound on I-64 leads to Riverside Regional Medical Center, also within Newport News, usually a 10-15 minute drive.

Other important roads include Jefferson Avenue, a major thoroughfare running north-south, and Warwick Boulevard, which runs parallel to it. These roads offer access to various medical clinics and urgent care facilities. Drive times on these roads are generally shorter, around 5-10 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. However, these roads are often congested, particularly during morning and evening commutes.

Navigating the city by car requires awareness of traffic patterns and potential delays. The ability to quickly reach a healthcare provider is crucial for asthma management, and the fluctuating traffic conditions in Newport News can impact the effectiveness of this option.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation throughout the region, including Newport News. While offering an alternative to driving, the accessibility and efficiency of HRT for asthma patients require careful evaluation. The primary bus routes serving 23608 include the 101, 102, and 110, which run along major roads like Jefferson Avenue and Warwick Boulevard.

The frequency of these routes can vary, with longer wait times during off-peak hours and on weekends. The travel time to medical facilities using public transit is generally longer than driving, often adding 30-60 minutes to the journey. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

HRT offers some ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and the overall comfort level of the buses can vary. Exposure to potential allergens and irritants within the bus environment, such as dust or strong fragrances, could also exacerbate asthma symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Newport News, offering another transportation option. These services can provide a more convenient and flexible alternative to public transit, especially for those with mobility limitations or those needing to travel at odd hours.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it often presents a more expensive option than public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services can also be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited coverage.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several companies operate in the area. These services, often catering to patients with disabilities or those needing assistance, can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services, however, typically require pre-booking and can be costly.

**Assessing the Asthma Score**

The "Asthma Score" for 23608 is a nuanced assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option. Driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. Public transit provides an affordable alternative, but it can be time-consuming and may expose patients to potential triggers. Ride-sharing offers flexibility, but at a higher cost. Medical transport provides specialized support, but requires pre-planning and can be expensive.

The overall score would depend on individual needs and circumstances. For those with mild asthma and access to a vehicle, the score would be relatively high. For those reliant on public transit or with limited mobility, the score would be lower, reflecting the challenges of accessing timely healthcare.

**Moving to Newport News with Asthma: Key Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Newport News with asthma, several factors should be carefully considered. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for exposure to environmental triggers are all critical.

Researching the location of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies within 23608 is essential. Assessing the reliability and efficiency of available transportation options, including driving, public transit, and ride-sharing, is also crucial. Understanding the local air quality conditions and the presence of potential allergens can help inform decisions about housing and lifestyle choices.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about relocating to Newport News, ensuring they have access to the healthcare they need to effectively manage their condition. The "Asthma Score" serves as a starting point for this assessment, highlighting the importance of transportation in accessing vital medical care.