23696, Seaford, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 23696, Seaford, Virginia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.26 percent of residents in 23696 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Careplex Hospital with a distance of 8.94 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23696, Seaford, Virginia

The crisp, salty air of Seaford, Virginia, in ZIP Code 23696, promises a tranquil life, a welcome change for those considering moving to this coastal community. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of healthcare access, a crucial element of a healthy existence, requires careful consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to residents, analyzing drive times, public transit accessibility, and alternative modes of transport to ensure seamless healthcare access. This is especially critical for those with respiratory conditions, whose well-being is intrinsically linked to timely and reliable transportation to medical appointments.

The foundation of healthcare access in Seaford hinges on personal vehicle transportation. The primary arteries for navigating the area are Interstate 64 (I-64), the major east-west thoroughfare, and Route 17, a north-south route that provides access to surrounding towns. From Seaford, a drive to the nearest hospital, Riverside Doctors' Hospital in Williamsburg, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey involves utilizing I-64 West, a relatively straightforward route. However, during peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the timely administration of asthma medication or the need for emergency care.

Other healthcare facilities, such as specialist clinics and urgent care centers, are scattered throughout the region, necessitating a careful assessment of drive times. The distance to these facilities can vary significantly, ranging from a short 10-minute drive to the closest medical center to upwards of an hour for specialized care in Norfolk or Richmond. For those with asthma, this variability in drive times underscores the importance of pre-planning and understanding the potential impact of traffic on their healthcare journey. The ability to quickly reach medical assistance is paramount.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although its availability in Seaford is limited. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system serves the region, but its presence in Seaford is not extensive. Bus routes, while available, may not directly serve all areas of the ZIP code, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel times. The routes that do operate, however, are designed to be accessible, incorporating features like ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines.

Specifically, Route 109, the Yorktown-Newport News route, offers a possible, albeit indirect, connection to healthcare facilities. This route, however, may require a transfer to reach specific medical appointments, adding to the overall travel time. The frequency of buses on these routes varies, with less frequent service on weekends and evenings, which can pose a challenge for those needing urgent care or scheduled appointments outside of typical business hours. The reliance on public transit for individuals with asthma necessitates meticulous planning and consideration of the time constraints involved.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. Their availability in Seaford is generally good, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical visits. Furthermore, the reliability of these services can be subject to fluctuations in demand and driver availability, particularly during inclement weather or peak hours. This can be a concern for individuals with asthma, who may require immediate transportation to a healthcare facility during an asthma attack.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and FirstMed Transport provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. While these services offer a higher degree of convenience and support, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which must be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

The "Asthma Score" for 23696 is thus nuanced. While the presence of I-64 and Route 17 provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost and availability concerns associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services must be considered. The drive-time variability, the infrequent public transit, and the dependence on personal vehicles all contribute to the complexity of healthcare access for asthma sufferers.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Seaford, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services. Proximity to healthcare facilities, traffic patterns, and the availability of emergency services should also be carefully considered.

Moreover, those with asthma should familiarize themselves with the local emergency medical services (EMS) system. Knowing the location of the nearest urgent care centers and hospitals and having a clear plan for accessing emergency care during an asthma attack is paramount. This includes having a readily available rescue inhaler, understanding the symptoms of an asthma attack, and knowing how to contact emergency services.

In conclusion, while Seaford offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the "Asthma Score" for healthcare access in 23696 highlights the importance of proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the available transportation options. For those managing asthma, a well-defined transportation strategy is crucial to ensuring timely access to medical care and maintaining a healthy, fulfilling life in this charming Virginia community. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape efficiently and reliably is key to successful healthcare access.