22202, Arlington, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 22202, Arlington, Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.85 percent of residents in 22202 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virginia Hospital Center with a distance of 4.41 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 22202**

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access, especially for those managing hypertension, is a critical consideration when contemplating a move. Understanding the transportation infrastructure in Arlington, Virginia, specifically within ZIP code 22202, is paramount. This analysis provides a detailed “Hypertension Score,” evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical appointments, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities presented by various transportation options.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This information will prove invaluable for individuals and families moving to Arlington, enabling informed decisions about their well-being and lifestyle.

**Driving the Arteries of Healthcare:**

For residents of 22202, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the major roadways. The George Washington Memorial Parkway, offering scenic views alongside the Potomac River, can be a viable route to facilities located south, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The I-395, another crucial thoroughfare, provides direct access to hospitals and clinics. However, its high-volume traffic demands strategic planning to minimize delays.

The key to efficient driving is understanding the ebb and flow of traffic. Morning and evening commutes on I-395 and the Parkway can be brutal. Utilizing real-time traffic data through applications like Google Maps or Waze is essential for anticipating delays and selecting alternative routes. Local roads, such as Washington Boulevard and Glebe Road, offer alternate paths, though they can become congested as drivers seek to avoid the major highways.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary depending on location. Virginia Hospital Center, a major healthcare provider, is generally accessible within a 10-20 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Specialty clinics and urgent care facilities may be closer, while those located further afield, such as hospitals in Washington, D.C., may require a 30-45 minute drive, potentially longer during rush hour.

**Public Transit: A Lifeline for Healthcare Access:**

Arlington's public transit system, primarily the Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), provides a crucial alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. The Metrorail, with its Orange and Silver lines, offers efficient access to various healthcare destinations. The Ballston-MU and Virginia Square-GMU stations, located within 22202, are convenient hubs for accessing the Metrorail.

The Orange Line provides direct access to the Medical Center station, serving the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, offering specialized care options. The Silver Line connects to hospitals and clinics in the Tysons Corner area, further expanding healthcare options.

The Metrobus system complements the Metrorail, offering a network of routes that serve the 22202 area. Routes such as the 2A, 2B, and 2Y provide access to various clinics and medical offices. The 38B bus provides service along Glebe Road, connecting to the Ballston and Courthouse Metrorail stations.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. All Metrorail stations and buses are equipped with elevators, ramps, and other features to ensure accessibility. The WMATA website provides detailed information about accessibility features at each station and on each bus route.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer convenient alternatives to driving and public transit, particularly for those who may not be able to drive or prefer a more direct transportation option. These services are readily available in 22202, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several providers operate in the Arlington area. These services offer transportation for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

These services require advance booking, and costs vary depending on the distance and level of care required. Medical transport is a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot use public transit or ride-sharing services due to their medical conditions.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Perspective:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 22202 is not a single number but a composite assessment, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The score considers the ease of access to healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

The score also considers the accessibility of pharmacies, grocery stores, and other essential services that contribute to overall health management. Proximity to these services can significantly impact the ability to adhere to medication regimens and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The overall score for 22202 reflects a relatively high level of healthcare accessibility. The area benefits from a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including a robust public transit system, readily available ride-sharing services, and access to medical transport options. However, the score also acknowledges the challenges of traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, and the potential for higher costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in 22202**

Moving to Arlington, specifically 22202, presents a favorable environment for managing hypertension. The combination of accessible transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides individuals with choices that cater to their specific needs and preferences.

While traffic congestion remains a factor, the availability of alternative transportation options mitigates its impact. The presence of a well-connected public transit system, coupled with the convenience of ride-sharing services, enhances healthcare access for residents of 22202.

The "Hypertension Score" for 22202 underscores the importance of proactive planning. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider their transportation needs when selecting a home. Assessing the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing services is essential for ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health. This comprehensive analysis empowers individuals to make informed decisions, fostering a healthier and more fulfilling life in Arlington.