23462, Virginia Beach, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23462, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.56 percent of residents in 23462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 7.01 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 23462

Considering a move to the vibrant coastal community of Virginia Beach, specifically ZIP Code 23462? This area, encompassing the southern reaches of the city, presents a unique landscape for navigating healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the ease of transportation to medical facilities is crucial for maintaining consistent care. This write-up provides a detailed assessment, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options, to help you gauge your "Hypertension Score" – a personal measure of healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of transportation in 23462 is the automobile. Driving remains the dominant mode, demanding a keen awareness of traffic patterns. Interstate 264 (I-264), the major east-west artery, connects the area to central Virginia Beach and beyond. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves navigating this highway, especially during peak hours. Expect congestion, potentially adding significant time to your commute, impacting your ability to adhere to medication schedules and appointment times.

Beyond I-264, several secondary roads play a vital role. General Booth Boulevard, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to numerous medical offices and the Sentara Princess Anne Hospital. Princess Anne Road also offers crucial connections. These roads, while less prone to the gridlock of the interstate, can still experience heavy traffic, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Calculating your personal Hypertension Score involves estimating drive times to your preferred healthcare providers. Consider the distance from your potential residence to your primary care physician, cardiologist, and any other specialists. Use online mapping tools like Google Maps or Waze, factoring in rush hour conditions. Remember, these estimates are crucial for assessing the feasibility of regular appointments and prompt access to care in case of emergencies.

Public transportation in 23462, while available, presents a different set of considerations. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) operates bus routes throughout the area. Several routes service 23462, including the 20, 24, and 30, providing connections to various healthcare facilities. However, bus travel times are generally longer than driving, and the frequency of service may be limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

For individuals with mobility limitations, ADA-accessible buses are available. HRT provides information on accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible routes and the need for careful planning are essential factors in your Hypertension Score calculation. Consider the time required to travel to a bus stop, the wait time for the bus, and the overall travel time to your healthcare provider.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can vary, especially during peak demand. Consider the financial implications of using ride-sharing regularly for healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in the area can fluctuate, potentially impacting your ability to secure timely transportation.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit independently. While these services provide a valuable lifeline, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

Evaluating your Hypertension Score requires a holistic approach. Consider not only drive times and public transit options but also the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Assess your personal needs and preferences. Do you prefer the independence of driving, the cost-effectiveness of public transit, or the convenience of ride-sharing? Your answers will shape your individual score.

Moving to Virginia Beach, especially in 23462, presents unique opportunities and challenges regarding healthcare access. By carefully assessing the transportation landscape, you can make informed decisions. Understanding the intricacies of commuting to healthcare facilities is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. This detailed assessment of transportation options, from highways and roads to public transit and ride-sharing, provides a valuable framework for evaluating your personal Hypertension Score.

Finally, remember that healthcare access is not solely determined by transportation. Consider the proximity of pharmacies, the availability of telehealth services, and the overall healthcare infrastructure in the area. Research the specific healthcare providers you plan to utilize and assess their accessibility. By combining these factors, you can create a comprehensive picture of healthcare access and make an informed decision about moving to Virginia Beach.