23129, Oilville, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23129, Oilville, Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.82 percent of residents in 23129 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henrico Doctors' Hospital with a distance of 14.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oilville (ZIP Code 23129)

Oilville, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Hanover County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 23129, evaluating its impact on individuals seeking timely and consistent medical care for this chronic condition. Our analysis focuses on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the barriers and facilitators to healthcare access in this community. This information is crucial for understanding the realities of living with hypertension and the implications of **moving to Oilville**.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Oilville, like much of rural Virginia, is the automobile. Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents. The proximity of major roadways, however, significantly influences drive times to essential medical facilities. Interstate 95 (I-95) acts as a vital artery, connecting Oilville to Richmond and its concentration of hospitals and specialized clinics. Accessing I-95 from within 23129 is generally straightforward, with several entry points via US Route 301 (Chamberlayne Road) and Route 54 (Patrick Henry Road).

Drive times to Richmond, approximately 20-30 miles south, can vary considerably depending on traffic conditions. During peak rush hour, particularly on weekday mornings and evenings, the journey can extend to an hour or more. This extended commute time is a significant consideration for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups, medication refills, or emergency care. Conversely, travel north on I-95 offers access to hospitals and clinics in the Fredericksburg area, but this direction is less frequently used for primary **healthcare access** for Oilville residents.

Beyond I-95, other roads play a crucial role. US Route 301 (Chamberlayne Road) provides a direct route south, connecting Oilville to Richmond and its surrounding suburbs. Route 54 (Patrick Henry Road) offers an east-west connection, linking Oilville to neighboring communities and facilitating access to local medical practices. These routes, while less congested than I-95, can still experience delays, particularly during school hours or due to accidents. The condition of these roads, including potential potholes and lack of shoulders, can also impact travel times and safety, especially for those with health concerns.

Public transit options within and around 23129 are limited. The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) operates bus routes in the Richmond metropolitan area, but service to Oilville is sparse. The primary route serving the area is likely the Route 1, which runs along US Route 301. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically operating on an hourly or less frequent schedule. This makes public transit a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or needing frequent medical appointments. The lack of dedicated bus stops with accessible features, such as ramps and audible announcements, further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the GRTC bus system is a critical consideration. While GRTC strives to provide accessible services, the limited route frequency and the distance between bus stops and medical facilities can create significant barriers for individuals with mobility challenges. The availability of accessible vehicles and the training of drivers in assisting passengers with disabilities are essential, but the overall reliance on public transit for **healthcare access** in Oilville remains problematic.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. However, their availability and affordability in Oilville can be unpredictable. Ride-sharing services are more readily available in urban areas, and their presence in more rural locations like Oilville is often dependent on driver availability and demand. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or in areas with limited transportation options, can make these services cost-prohibitive for individuals on fixed incomes or those with frequent medical needs.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and private ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for those who cannot drive themselves or use other forms of transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, making them less accessible for routine check-ups or medication refills. The availability of these services, particularly for individuals with specific medical needs, is an important factor in evaluating **healthcare access** in Oilville.

The availability of local medical practices within 23129 and its immediate surroundings is a crucial element in assessing healthcare access. While the area may have some primary care physicians and specialists, the concentration of medical facilities is significantly lower than in urban areas. This necessitates travel to Richmond or other nearby cities for specialized care, further increasing the reliance on **transportation**. The distance to emergency rooms and urgent care facilities is also a critical factor, especially for individuals with hypertension who may experience sudden health crises.

The **transportation** challenges discussed above can significantly impact the management of hypertension in Oilville. Regular access to medical care, including medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and lifestyle counseling, is essential for controlling this chronic condition. The difficulties in accessing healthcare can lead to delayed treatment, poor adherence to medication regimens, and increased risk of complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. These factors highlight the importance of addressing the transportation barriers faced by residents of 23129.

For those considering **moving to Oilville**, the transportation landscape must be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension should assess their ability to access medical care, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport. Proximity to major roadways and the availability of local medical practices are also essential factors. Understanding the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Oilville, Virginia, is a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a rural charm, the challenges of **transportation** to medical facilities, particularly for those managing hypertension, cannot be overlooked. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport all contribute to the overall **Hypertension Score** for residents of 23129. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, expanded ride-sharing options, and increased access to local medical practices is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Oilville can receive the timely and consistent care they need to manage their health and thrive.