22716, Castleton, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 22716, Castleton, Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.16 percent of residents in 22716 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Uva Health System Culpeper Med Cente with a distance of 11.89 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 22716**

Castleton, Virginia, nestled in the verdant embrace of Rappahannock County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and accessibility challenges, particularly concerning healthcare. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape impacting residents' ability to access essential medical services, specifically for those managing hypertension. The score reflects the ease or difficulty in reaching healthcare providers, with a focus on commute times, available transportation options, and the overall impact on residents' well-being. For those considering moving to Castleton, understanding this score is crucial for informed decision-making.

The primary factor influencing the Hypertension Score is the distance and accessibility of healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 22716. While Castleton itself might offer limited medical services, the nearest comprehensive healthcare options are primarily located in Culpeper, Warrenton, and Charlottesville. The drive to these locations is a significant determinant of the score.

The most direct route to Culpeper, approximately 20 miles away, involves navigating Route 29 South. This stretch, while scenic, can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. The drive typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic flow. A longer drive to Warrenton, roughly 40 miles, requires utilizing Route 29 North and then merging onto Route 28. This commute usually takes about an hour, potentially longer during rush hour. Charlottesville, a more distant destination at around 60 miles, necessitates traveling on Route 29 South, and the drive can take up to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

These drive times, especially for individuals with hypertension, can present significant challenges. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits require reliable and efficient transportation. The longer the commute, the greater the potential for stress, which can exacerbate hypertension. Furthermore, the time spent traveling reduces the time available for other essential activities, impacting quality of life.

Public transportation options in and around Castleton are limited. Rappahannock County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The primary mode of public transportation is the Culpeper County Transit, which offers limited routes within Culpeper County, but it does not directly serve Castleton. This lack of public transportation significantly hinders healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of a readily available public transit option contributes negatively to the Hypertension Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The availability of drivers and the cost of rides can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. For residents with fixed incomes or those needing frequent medical appointments, ride-sharing may prove to be an expensive and unreliable option. This variability further impacts the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential option. However, the availability of these services in Castleton is limited. The major medical transportation brands, such as LogistiCare and MTM, might offer services in the area, but their coverage and the cost of their services can vary. This lack of readily accessible medical transportation options contributes negatively to the overall score.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any available transportation options is a critical consideration. Individuals with mobility limitations or other disabilities require accessible transportation to ensure they can reach healthcare facilities. The lack of accessible public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can pose significant challenges for this population.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 22716 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, which can be problematic for those without a car or who are unable to drive. The limited availability of public transportation, the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the limited access to medical transportation services all contribute to the score.

For individuals considering moving to Castleton, the Hypertension Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with hypertension or other chronic health conditions should consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare facilities. Planning for reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, the potential use of ride-sharing services, or exploring medical transportation options, is crucial for maintaining good health.

Furthermore, the development of improved transportation infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare services within or closer to Castleton would significantly improve the Hypertension Score and enhance the quality of life for residents. Investing in public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding medical transportation options would improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 22716 underscores the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers a tranquil rural setting, residents must navigate transportation challenges to reach essential medical services. Understanding the commute times, the limitations of public transportation, and the variability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is critical for residents and those considering moving to Castleton. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential for improving healthcare access and promoting the well-being of the community.