23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.02 percent of residents in 23460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 3.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23460

Considering a move to Virginia Beach, specifically ZIP Code 23460? This area, encompassing a significant portion of the city's southern reaches, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options, evaluating their impact on your ability to reach vital medical appointments and ultimately, manage your health. We’ll delve into the realities of commuting to healthcare, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods, offering a practical "Hypertension Score" assessment for navigating this crucial aspect of daily life.

The primary artery for movement within and around 23460 is Interstate 64 (I-64). This major east-west thoroughfare connects the area to Norfolk and beyond. However, I-64 is notorious for congestion, especially during peak hours. Commuting to healthcare appointments located west of 23460, such as those near Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, can quickly become a time-consuming ordeal. Expect drive times to fluctuate wildly depending on the time of day and the occurrence of accidents. The secondary roads, like Princess Anne Road, and Kempsville Road, can become equally congested, adding to the unpredictability of your journey.

Further complicating matters, the availability of healthcare providers within 23460 itself is somewhat limited. While some primary care physicians and specialists may be present, the concentration of larger hospitals and specialized clinics tends to be located further north. This necessitates travel, making transportation a critical factor in healthcare access. The proximity of Naval Air Station Oceana adds another layer of complexity, as traffic patterns can be significantly impacted by military operations and personnel movements.

Public transportation in 23460, provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offers an alternative, though its effectiveness for healthcare access is variable. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 20, 22, and 24, providing connections to larger transit hubs and medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This can lead to extended wait times and longer overall travel durations, potentially exacerbating the challenges of managing hypertension.

The accessibility of HRT buses is a positive note. All HRT buses are ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is crucial for those who may have mobility limitations related to their health condition. However, the reliance on public transit can still present challenges, particularly for individuals who require frequent appointments or have complex medical needs. The need to transfer between routes, coupled with potential delays, can add significant stress and time to the journey.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. They provide on-demand service, allowing for direct travel to and from healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase the expense. While offering convenience, ride-sharing is not always a sustainable solution for ongoing healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and CareRide, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, availability may be limited, and pre-booking is often required. The cost of these services can also be substantial, making them a potential barrier to healthcare access for some individuals.

Considering all these factors, we can begin to formulate a "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in 23460. This score will reflect the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare, considering transportation options and their associated challenges. The score will be based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing poor access and 5 representing excellent access.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

* **Drive Time Reliability:** 3/5 (Variable due to traffic on I-64 and secondary roads)
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** 2/5 (Limited frequency and potential for long travel times)
* **Ride-Share Availability:** 3/5 (Convenient but can be expensive)
* **Medical Transportation Options:** 3/5 (Available but may require pre-booking and can be costly)
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** 3/5 (Limited within 23460, necessitating travel)

**Overall Hypertension Score for 23460: 2.8/5**

This score indicates that while healthcare access is possible in 23460, it presents certain challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to the complexity of navigating the healthcare landscape. Individuals with hypertension need to carefully consider these factors when choosing to live in this area.

**Recommendations:**

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering peak traffic hours and public transit schedules.
* **Explore Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication management, reducing the need for in-person visits.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a home, prioritize locations with easier access to major roads or public transit routes.
* **Budget for Transportation:** Factor in the cost of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services, when planning your healthcare expenses.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transit and expanding healthcare services in the area.

Moving to Virginia Beach, especially 23460, requires a proactive approach to healthcare management, particularly if you have hypertension. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care and maintaining your overall well-being. By carefully considering the available options and planning accordingly, you can navigate the challenges and successfully manage your health while enjoying the benefits of living in this vibrant coastal community. The key is to be informed, adaptable, and prepared to prioritize your healthcare needs.