22302, Alexandria, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 22302, Alexandria, Virginia is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.69 percent of residents in 22302 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Inova Alexandria Hospital with a distance of 1.31 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 22302

Considering a move to Alexandria, Virginia, and concerned about managing hypertension? Understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is crucial. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 22302, provides a "Hypertension Score" – a composite measure of **transportation** options available to residents seeking medical care. This score weighs drive times, public transit efficiency, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, offering a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension in this area.

The 22302 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Old Town Alexandria and the surrounding neighborhoods, presents a unique **transportation** landscape. Proximity to Washington, D.C., influences traffic patterns and public transit availability. The score considers the time and effort required to reach essential healthcare providers, recognizing that timely access to medical attention is paramount for individuals with hypertension.

**Drive Times: The Road Ahead**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries are the George Washington Memorial Parkway, the Capital Beltway (I-495), and the major surface streets like King Street and Duke Street. Driving to Inova Alexandria Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Morning and evening rush hours can significantly extend this, particularly on the Parkway and I-495.

Navigating these roads requires careful planning. The Parkway, while scenic, is often congested. I-495, the Beltway, experiences heavy traffic during peak hours. Surface streets like King Street and Duke Street offer alternative routes, but they are also prone to congestion, especially near the King Street Metro station and during events. The **healthcare access** can be hampered by these unpredictable traffic conditions.

Access to specialized cardiology practices and pharmacies is also factored into the drive-time analysis. Locations in the Landmark area, accessible via Duke Street, may add 15-25 minutes to your travel time during peak hours. Careful consideration of travel times is vital for individuals managing hypertension, who may need frequent check-ups and medication refills.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

The Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides a significant public transit presence in 22302. The King Street-Old Town station on the Yellow and Blue lines is a central hub, offering direct access to downtown Washington, D.C., and other key destinations. The Braddock Road station, also on the Yellow and Blue lines, provides another convenient option.

Several Metrobus routes also serve the area, including the 7, 10A, 10B, 10E, and 10F lines, which connect to various parts of Alexandria and surrounding areas. These buses offer a more localized network, providing access to pharmacies, doctor's offices, and other essential services.

The **transportation** analysis considers the frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, when access to healthcare may be more critical. The Metro system is generally considered ADA-accessible, with elevators and ramps at most stations, enhancing **healthcare access** for individuals with mobility limitations. However, delays and service disruptions can occur, impacting the reliability of public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand **transportation** options, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who are unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate traffic. The availability of these services is generally good in 22302, but surge pricing during peak hours and inclement weather can impact affordability.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of these services can be limited, and pre-booking is often required. The cost of medical transport can be higher than ride-sharing services.

**Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 22302 is a composite measure, incorporating the factors discussed above. It considers the average drive times to key healthcare providers, the accessibility and reliability of public transit, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the ease of **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension.

The score is not static; it reflects the dynamic nature of **transportation** options. Traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing services can change. Therefore, it is essential to regularly re-evaluate the score based on individual needs and preferences.

**Moving to Alexandria: Making Informed Choices**

For those **moving to Alexandria**, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool. It allows prospective residents to assess the feasibility of managing their health conditions within this specific geographic area. The score empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their **transportation** needs and to identify the most efficient and reliable means of accessing healthcare.

The score also highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals with hypertension should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options, including public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. They should also establish relationships with local healthcare providers and pharmacies.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for 22302 is a reminder that **healthcare access** is a multifaceted issue. By considering the various **transportation** options available, individuals can make informed choices and ensure that they can effectively manage their health conditions while enjoying the benefits of living in this vibrant community.