22939, Fishersville, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 22939, Fishersville, Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.29 percent of residents in 22939 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Augusta Health with a distance of 0.89 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 22939

The quest for optimal health often begins with understanding one's individual risks. In the context of ZIP Code 22939, encompassing the charming community of Fishersville, Virginia, this includes a critical assessment of **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive analysis, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on accessing essential medical services, ultimately offering insights for those **moving to Fishersville**.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and timely treatment. The ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently and reliably is paramount. This is where the "Hypertension Score" becomes relevant. It's a multifaceted evaluation of how easily residents of 22939 can access the necessary care, considering various **transportation** modalities and their respective limitations. The score will illuminate the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape, offering a clearer picture for residents managing their health.

**Driving Dynamics: The Road to Care**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation**. In Fishersville, this translates to navigating a network of highways and local roads to reach medical facilities. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves Interstate 64 (I-64). This major east-west artery provides relatively swift access to Charlottesville, approximately 30 miles east, where the University of Virginia Health System offers comprehensive cardiology and internal medicine services. Expect drive times to vary, typically ranging from 35 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, residents might utilize US Route 250 (US-250), a key east-west corridor, to access healthcare providers in Staunton, roughly 15 miles west. This route, while shorter in distance, can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours. Drive times to Staunton medical facilities generally fall between 20 and 30 minutes. Local roads, such as US Route 11, and various county routes provide access to smaller clinics and physician offices within Fishersville and surrounding areas. These routes offer convenient access for routine check-ups and medication refills, with drive times typically under 15 minutes.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents potential challenges. Factors like traffic, weather conditions, and vehicle maintenance can impact **healthcare access**. Individuals without personal vehicles, or those with mobility limitations, face additional hurdles. The "Hypertension Score" must account for these disparities, highlighting the need for alternative **transportation** options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in 22939 are limited, posing a significant barrier for some residents. The Staunton-Augusta Regional Transit (START) operates a fixed-route bus system, but its service area and frequency are restricted. While START provides some connectivity within Staunton and Augusta County, its routes may not directly serve all areas of Fishersville or offer convenient access to all healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. START does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still create challenges. Residents relying on public transit must factor in longer travel times and potential delays, impacting their ability to adhere to scheduled appointments and medication regimens. The "Hypertension Score" must reflect the limitations of public transit in this context.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a supplementary **transportation** option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. Their availability in 22939 is generally reliable, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another avenue for **healthcare access**. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey. However, medical transport services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Hypertension Score" must weigh the benefits and drawbacks of ride-sharing and medical transport, considering factors such as cost, availability, and accessibility. These services can bridge the gap in **healthcare access**, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

**Assessing the Score: A Holistic View**

Calculating the "Hypertension Score" requires a holistic approach, considering all factors discussed above. The score should reflect the ease with which residents of 22939 can access essential healthcare services, specifically those related to hypertension management. This involves evaluating the following:

* **Drive times:** The time required to reach various healthcare providers via different routes, accounting for traffic and potential delays.
* **Public transit availability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-sharing and medical transport:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of these services.
* **Cost considerations:** The financial burden associated with each **transportation** option.
* **Accessibility for individuals with disabilities:** The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and services.

The "Hypertension Score" will provide a numerical rating, along with a detailed explanation of the underlying factors. This score will serve as a valuable tool for residents of 22939, particularly those managing hypertension. It will empower them to make informed decisions about their **transportation** needs and plan for their healthcare requirements.

**Implications for Moving to Fishersville**

For individuals **moving to Fishersville**, the "Hypertension Score" offers crucial insights. It allows prospective residents to assess the **healthcare access** landscape and make informed decisions about their living arrangements. Those with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully consider the available **transportation** options and their potential impact on their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care.

The score can also inform community planning efforts. By identifying areas where **healthcare access** is limited, local authorities can explore strategies to improve **transportation** options, such as expanding public transit routes, partnering with ride-sharing services, or supporting the development of medical transport programs. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a catalyst for positive change, fostering a healthier community for all residents of 22939.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" is more than just a rating; it's a comprehensive assessment of the intricate relationship between **transportation** and **healthcare access** in Fishersville. It's a vital tool for residents, prospective movers, and community stakeholders, guiding them toward a healthier and more accessible future. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within the local **transportation** network, individuals can proactively manage their health and ensure they receive the care they need, when they need it.