22923, Barboursville, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 22923, Barboursville, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.85 percent of residents in 22923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital with a distance of 13.44 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Barboursville (ZIP Code 22923)

Considering a move to the charming community of Barboursville, Virginia, within the 22923 ZIP code? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a “Hypertension Score” assessment, evaluating the accessibility of medical care, considering transportation options, and highlighting potential challenges and opportunities. The score is not a numerical value, but a qualitative evaluation based on available data.

Barboursville, nestled in the heart of Orange County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges concerning healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" considers the distance to medical facilities, the reliability of transportation, and the availability of specialized services. A lower score indicates greater ease of access, while a higher score suggests potential difficulties.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Barboursville is personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by the roadways. The primary artery is **Route 20**, which provides north-south access. Traveling north on Route 20, residents can reach Culpeper Medical Center in approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading south on Route 20 leads to Charlottesville, offering a broader range of medical options.

**Route 29** is a vital east-west thoroughfare, intersecting with Route 20. Driving east on Route 29 offers access to Charlottesville's healthcare resources, including the University of Virginia (UVA) Health System, typically a 30-45 minute drive. The drive time can be significantly longer during peak hours. The roads are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter, can impact travel times.

Secondary roads, such as **Route 617 (Spotswood Trail)**, provide alternative routes, but these are often narrower and less direct. These routes can be useful in avoiding traffic congestion on the primary highways. The time of day and the volume of traffic are major factors in the drive times.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Barboursville are limited. The primary provider is the **Orange County Public Transportation**. The service is designed to serve the needs of the community, but the schedule is limited. There is no fixed-route bus service. The service operates on a demand-response basis, requiring advance booking. This can be a significant barrier for individuals needing urgent care.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features are available on the county's public transportation, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited service hours and the need for advance booking make this option less convenient for those managing hypertension, especially during unexpected medical needs. Public transportation is not a reliable option for those looking to move to Barboursville.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Barboursville area. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can be a concern for individuals with hypertension who may require prompt medical attention. The cost of ride-share services can also be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services are available. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like **First Transit** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services require prior booking and are often more expensive than ride-share options. The availability of these services can vary depending on demand and geographic location.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within the 22923 ZIP code is limited. Residents typically rely on facilities in neighboring communities, such as Culpeper and Charlottesville. This necessitates longer travel times, increasing the "Hypertension Score." The distance to specialized care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology, is a major consideration for individuals managing hypertension.

The UVA Health System in Charlottesville offers a comprehensive range of services. However, the drive time and potential traffic congestion can pose challenges. The availability of specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments are also factors influencing healthcare access. The lack of local pharmacies and the need to travel to refill prescriptions add to the challenges.

**Impact on the "Hypertension Score":**

The "Hypertension Score" for Barboursville reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare. The rural setting, limited public transportation, and the reliance on personal vehicles contribute to a higher score. The availability of ride-share and medical transport services offers some relief, but their limitations and cost can be significant.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension:**

Individuals with hypertension considering a move to Barboursville should carefully assess their healthcare needs. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Evaluate the distance to primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a reliable transportation plan, considering personal vehicles, ride-share services, and medical transport options.
* **Medication Management:** Establish a plan for obtaining and refilling medications, including the distance to pharmacies.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure a plan for emergencies, including access to emergency medical services.
* **Community Resources:** Investigate local community resources, such as senior centers or volunteer transportation programs, that may offer assistance.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Barboursville offers a peaceful lifestyle, but prospective residents must acknowledge the challenges of healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for careful planning and preparation for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding the transportation landscape and the available healthcare resources, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure their healthcare needs are met. The decision to move to Barboursville is a personal one, and careful consideration of healthcare access is paramount.