23508, Norfolk, Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 23508, Norfolk, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.88 percent of residents in 23508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Medical Group with a distance of 1.74 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23508 for Respiratory Health

The vibrant coastal city of Norfolk, Virginia, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. But for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the practicalities of daily life, especially **transportation** to **healthcare** appointments, become paramount. This write-up assesses the accessibility of pulmonary care within ZIP Code 23508, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for residents with COPD. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a COPD Score to gauge the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Norfolk**, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

The 23508 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, including portions of the Ghent, Larchmont, and West Ghent neighborhoods. Proximity to major thoroughfares significantly impacts healthcare access. Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation**, with the ability to navigate the city's roads a crucial factor.

For those with COPD, minimizing travel time is essential. The nearest major hospital with pulmonary specialists, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, is generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic. Accessing the hospital from the western reaches of 23508, using roads like Colley Avenue and Llewellyn Avenue, can be straightforward, though rush-hour congestion on Granby Street and Brambleton Avenue can extend commute times. The ease of access to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a significant advantage for residents.

Accessing other medical facilities, such as the Pulmonary & Sleep Specialists of Tidewater, located near the Norfolk International Airport, requires a longer drive, typically 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic on the I-64 or I-264. These interstate highways can experience heavy congestion during peak hours, potentially exacerbating respiratory distress for COPD patients. Therefore, careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions are essential when scheduling appointments.

Public **transportation** provides an alternative, though its effectiveness varies. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) operates several bus routes that serve 23508. The #20 route, for instance, runs along Granby Street, offering a direct connection to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. The #21 route travels along Colley Avenue, providing access to various medical offices. While these routes offer a degree of convenience, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, may pose a challenge.

Furthermore, the accessibility of HRT buses for individuals with COPD is crucial. All HRT buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating for passengers with disabilities, including those using mobility aids. However, the physical demands of navigating bus stops, waiting in potentially inclement weather, and the potential for crowded conditions can be problematic for individuals with breathing difficulties. The availability of real-time tracking through the HRT Go app can help mitigate some of these challenges, allowing patients to plan their travel more effectively.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. These services provide on-demand access to **transportation**, potentially reducing the need for long wait times or reliance on public **transportation**. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services during peak hours or in areas with limited availability should be considered.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are available in Norfolk. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like Med-Ride and Firstat Nursing Services offer specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical conditions, including those with COPD. These services can provide a valuable lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or use public **transportation**. However, the cost of medical **transportation** can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required.

The COPD Score for 23508 considers the accessibility of pulmonary care, factoring in drive times, public **transportation** options, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** services. The proximity of Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and the presence of HRT bus routes provide a foundation for reasonable **healthcare access**. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the limitations of public **transportation** for individuals with COPD present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** offers additional options, but their cost and availability must be considered. Overall, the COPD Score for 23508 reflects a moderate level of accessibility, with opportunities for improvement in public **transportation** frequency and affordability of medical **transportation** services.

For individuals considering **moving to Norfolk** with COPD, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Researching the specific locations of pulmonary specialists, understanding the public **transportation** routes, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services are crucial steps in ensuring access to quality **healthcare**. While 23508 offers reasonable access to pulmonary care, careful planning and consideration of individual needs are paramount for successful management of COPD.