24083, Daleville, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 24083, Daleville, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.87 percent of residents in 24083 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Medical Center with a distance of 11.23 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Daleville, Virginia (ZIP Code 24083)

The crisp air of Daleville, Virginia, nestled in the Roanoke Valley, might seem idyllic, but for residents managing asthma, the reality of healthcare access is a complex tapestry woven with transportation limitations. This "Asthma Score" write-up will delve into the specifics of navigating healthcare in ZIP code 24083, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of accessibility for those considering a move to Daleville or already residing there.

The very essence of healthcare access is intertwined with the ability to reach medical facilities. For individuals with asthma, timely access to doctors, specialists, and emergency care is paramount. The primary challenge for Daleville residents lies in the geographical spread of healthcare providers. While Daleville boasts a local pharmacy and primary care physicians, specialized care often necessitates travel into Roanoke or Salem.

Driving, therefore, becomes the cornerstone of healthcare transportation. The primary artery connecting Daleville to Roanoke is **US Route 220**, a major thoroughfare that can be congested during peak hours. A drive to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, rush hour, particularly during the morning and afternoon commutes, can easily extend this to 45 minutes or even an hour.

Another crucial route is **Virginia Route 419**, which offers a more direct, albeit often slower, path to medical offices in the Cave Spring area of Roanoke. This route is particularly relevant for accessing pediatric specialists and other services located in that part of the city. The drive time on Route 419 is generally comparable to that of Route 220, but the road conditions can vary, impacting travel times.

Further complicating matters, the secondary roads within Daleville, such as **Botetourt Road** and **Cloverdale Road**, are often narrow and winding, adding to the overall travel time. These roads also lack sidewalks and bike lanes, making pedestrian or cycling access to healthcare facilities challenging, especially for individuals with compromised respiratory function.

Public transportation offers an alternative, yet its limitations significantly impact the "Asthma Score." Valley MetroMetro, the regional public transit system, provides bus service to and from Daleville. However, the frequency of service is limited, particularly on weekends and evenings. The primary route serving Daleville is **Route 30 (Daleville/Tanglewood Mall)**.

While Valley Metro buses are generally ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and designated seating, the infrequent service can be a major obstacle. Waiting times can be long, and transfers, which are often required to reach specialized healthcare providers, add to the overall travel time and potential exposure to environmental triggers. The lack of direct routes to many medical facilities further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with asthma.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Daleville is variable. While rides can usually be secured, surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather can make them cost-prohibitive. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled appointments is not always guaranteed, adding an element of uncertainty for individuals with chronic health conditions.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another layer of support. Companies like First Transit and Med-Ride offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and can be a reliable option for scheduled appointments. However, the availability of these services and the reimbursement policies of insurance companies should be carefully investigated.

The "Asthma Score" for Daleville, when considering transportation, is therefore moderate. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare, traffic congestion and distance remain significant factors. Public transit, though accessible, is limited by frequency and route availability. Ride-sharing provides flexibility but is subject to availability and cost. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but require planning and may be subject to insurance limitations.

For those considering moving to Daleville, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is crucial. Individuals with asthma should factor in the potential travel times to medical appointments, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the cost of these services. The proximity to Roanoke and Salem, with their wider range of healthcare providers, is a definite advantage, but the transportation infrastructure needs to be carefully evaluated.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma should explore the possibility of telehealth appointments, which can reduce the need for travel. They should also familiarize themselves with local emergency services and the protocols for accessing urgent care.

In conclusion, while Daleville offers a pleasant living environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals with asthma. The "Asthma Score" reflects the need for careful planning, proactive management, and a thorough understanding of available transportation options to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. The decision to move to Daleville, therefore, should involve a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and a realistic evaluation of the transportation realities. The quality of life in Daleville is undoubtedly enhanced by the beauty of the surrounding landscape; however, for those managing asthma, healthcare access is a critical factor in ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.