23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.03 percent of residents in 23459 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 5.89 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23459**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 23459, a vibrant area within Virginia Beach, Virginia, offering insights into the commute to healthcare facilities and its potential impact on individuals. Considering the challenges of hypertension management, which often necessitates frequent medical appointments and consistent medication adherence, transportation becomes a critical factor in overall health outcomes.

ZIP code 23459, encompassing a diverse community, presents a unique transportation landscape. Several major roadways facilitate movement within and beyond the area. Interstate 264 (I-264) serves as a primary artery, providing swift access to healthcare facilities located further west and connecting to other major highways. The Virginia Beach Expressway (Route 44), a toll road, offers another high-speed option, particularly for those seeking healthcare providers in the central and southern parts of the city.

Local roads like Independence Boulevard, a major north-south thoroughfare, and First Colonial Road, running parallel to the coast, offer alternative routes. These roads, while often congested during peak hours, provide access to numerous medical offices, clinics, and pharmacies. The efficiency of these routes is crucial for residents managing hypertension, as timely access to medical care can significantly impact their health.

Public transportation, provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes traverse ZIP code 23459, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Route 20, for example, runs along Independence Boulevard, providing access to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and numerous medical offices. Route 22, another key route, travels along First Colonial Road, offering access to healthcare providers along that corridor.

HRT strives to provide accessibility for all riders. All HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility is vital for individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility limitations or other health-related challenges. However, the frequency of bus service and the potential for delays due to traffic congestion should be considered when planning healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a more convenient and flexible alternative to public transit, particularly for those with limited mobility or who require transportation at off-peak hours. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTran and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped with wheelchair accessibility and trained drivers. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility challenges or those who require assistance during their commute.

The choice of transportation method significantly influences the overall 'Hypertension Score' for residents of ZIP code 23459. This score, which reflects the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare, takes into account factors like drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the time of day. During peak hours, traffic congestion on major roadways like I-264 and Independence Boulevard can significantly increase commute times. However, outside of rush hour, drive times to facilities within the ZIP code and surrounding areas are generally manageable, typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes.

Public transit, while offering an affordable option, may involve longer commute times due to route schedules and potential delays. The average commute time via HRT bus can range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the route and the distance to the healthcare facility. Ride-sharing services offer a potentially faster alternative, but the cost can be a barrier for some individuals. Medical transportation services provide a reliable option for those with mobility limitations, but they may require advance booking and can be more expensive than public transit.

For individuals considering moving to Virginia Beach, particularly those managing hypertension, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. ZIP code 23459 offers a range of transportation options, but the optimal choice will depend on individual needs and circumstances. Assessing the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is essential for ensuring consistent and timely access to medical care.

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 23459 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the area offers diverse transportation options, the efficiency and reliability of these options are critical for managing hypertension effectively. Residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and choose the most suitable option to ensure they can readily access the healthcare they require. This proactive approach to transportation planning is key to promoting positive health outcomes and improving the quality of life for individuals managing hypertension in this dynamic Virginia Beach community.