23146, Rockville, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23146, Rockville, Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.49 percent of residents in 23146 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henrico Doctors' Hospital with a distance of 12.53 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23146**

The journey to adequate healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension, is often a complex equation of distance, time, and available transportation. In ZIP Code 23146, a suburban area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, the accessibility of vital medical services requires careful consideration. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for residents, especially those considering moving to Rockville, and highlighting the crucial factors determining the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical appointments.

The Hypertension Score considers the time and effort required to access medical facilities, factoring in various transportation methods. This includes private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, reflecting shorter commute times and a broader range of transportation options. The score is not a definitive measure, but a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents of 23146.

**The Road Ahead: Private Vehicle Transportation**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in 23146 is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare, Interstate 64 (I-64), provides a direct route to various healthcare facilities. Heading east on I-64, one can reach the Bon Secours St. Francis Xavier Hospital in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route involves navigating the I-64 corridor, known for its potential congestion during peak hours.

Alternatively, heading west on I-64 offers access to other medical centers, including the Chippenham Hospital, typically requiring a 25-30 minute drive. This route also encounters potential traffic bottlenecks, particularly near the Huguenot Road exit. For those needing specialized care or considering moving to Rockville, this drive time is a significant consideration.

Local roads like Gaskins Road and Gayton Road provide alternative routes, but they often involve more stop-and-go traffic and may add to the overall travel time. These routes can be beneficial during times of heavy I-64 congestion, offering a slower but potentially less frustrating commute.

**Navigating Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 23146 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The primary route serving the area is likely the GRTC Route 6, which travels along West Broad Street and offers connections to other routes.

The bus ride to a major hospital like Bon Secours St. Francis Xavier Hospital can easily exceed 45 minutes to an hour, including transfer times. The GRTC website provides detailed route information, schedules, and real-time tracking. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of buses and the potential for lengthy travel times can be a deterrent for those managing hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Modern Solution**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to public transit, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. A ride to Bon Secours St. Francis Xavier Hospital via Uber or Lyft might cost around $20-$30 and take about 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. These services provide door-to-door transportation, offering a more comfortable and direct experience compared to public transit.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and First Transit, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. They provide a more tailored approach, ensuring patients arrive at their appointments safely and on time. The cost for these services varies depending on the distance and level of care required.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering the factors mentioned above, the Hypertension Score for 23146 reflects a mixed picture. The availability of private vehicle transportation provides a reasonable level of access to healthcare facilities, but the potential for traffic congestion on I-64 and local roads can increase travel times.

Public transit options are limited, with infrequent routes and potentially lengthy travel times. This poses a significant challenge for those reliant on public transportation, especially those managing hypertension who require regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer a more convenient and accessible alternative, but the cost can be a barrier for some residents. The overall score reflects a need for improved public transit options and greater affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.

**Factors Impacting the Score**

Several factors influence the Hypertension Score. These include:

* **Traffic Congestion:** Peak hour traffic on I-64 and local roads can significantly increase travel times.
* **Public Transit Frequency:** Infrequent bus routes limit accessibility for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing Costs:** The cost of Uber and Lyft can be a barrier for some residents.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The availability and cost of specialized medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices impacts travel time.

**Moving to Rockville: Considerations**

For those considering moving to Rockville, the transportation landscape in 23146 should be a key factor in their decision-making process. The availability of convenient and affordable transportation options is crucial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the accessibility of healthcare facilities before making a move.

**Conclusion: Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in 23146 requires a multifaceted approach. This includes:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and reach of GRTC bus routes to better serve medical facilities.
* **Subsidizing Ride-Sharing:** Providing financial assistance for ride-sharing services to make them more affordable for low-income residents.
* **Promoting Medical Transport:** Increasing awareness of and access to specialized medical transport services.
* **Encouraging Telehealth:** Promoting the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.

By addressing these issues, the community can improve the Hypertension Score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The journey to healthcare should be as stress-free and efficient as possible, especially for those managing chronic conditions. This requires a collaborative effort from local government, healthcare providers, and transportation services to create a more accessible and supportive environment for all residents of 23146.