23502, Norfolk, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23502, Norfolk, Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.07 percent of residents in 23502 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc with a distance of 4.91 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23502

Considering a move to Norfolk's 23502 ZIP code? Beyond the charm of Ghent and the energy of downtown, a crucial factor in your decision-making process should be **healthcare access**, particularly if you're managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, analyzing the **transportation** landscape and its impact on your ability to reach vital medical appointments. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision about **moving to Norfolk**.

The 23502 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Ghent, Freemason, and parts of downtown Norfolk, presents a unique challenge. While offering a vibrant urban lifestyle, its healthcare accessibility is heavily influenced by **transportation** infrastructure. For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical care is paramount. This score aims to quantify the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services, considering the potential impact of **transportation** limitations on their health outcomes.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

Driving remains a dominant mode of **transportation** in Norfolk. The primary arteries influencing healthcare access in 23502 are Interstate 264 (I-264), Interstate 64 (I-64), and Brambleton Avenue. The drive times to key medical facilities, however, can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, especially during peak hours.

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is located just east of 23502. During off-peak hours, a drive from Ghent might take approximately 5-10 minutes via Brambleton Avenue or I-264. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, or even triple, adding considerable stress and potential delays for those with hypertension.

The Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD), located further east, presents a similar challenge. Accessing CHKD from 23502 requires navigating the same congested roadways, potentially adding to the overall travel time. Furthermore, the availability of parking at these facilities can be another stressor, impacting the overall healthcare experience.

For those seeking specialized care, such as cardiology appointments, the location of the specialist's office becomes crucial. Many specialists are clustered around the major hospitals or along major thoroughfares. This necessitates careful planning, considering both the distance and the potential for traffic congestion.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public **transportation** options in Norfolk, offering an alternative to driving. However, the effectiveness of public transit for healthcare access in 23502 is variable.

Several HRT bus routes serve the 23502 area. Route 1, which runs along Brambleton Avenue, provides a direct link to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Route 20, traversing Granby Street, offers access to downtown medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant drawback.

Furthermore, the accessibility of HRT for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical consideration. All HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, navigating bus stops, especially in inclement weather, can still pose challenges.

The Tide light rail system offers another **transportation** option. While the Tide does not directly serve all healthcare facilities, it provides a connection to downtown, where transfers to bus routes are possible. However, the walk from the light rail station to a medical office can be a factor, particularly for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft provide an on-demand **transportation** alternative. These services offer convenience, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially with frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response, cater specifically to individuals requiring non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may not be readily available for last-minute appointments.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 23502 considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Average drive times to major healthcare facilities during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of HRT bus routes and the Tide light rail.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** Average cost and wait times for Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Availability and cost of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** Access to pharmacies for medication refills.
* **Overall Convenience:** Ease of access to healthcare facilities, considering parking availability and potential for traffic congestion.

This score is not a single number but a comprehensive evaluation, acknowledging the complexities of **healthcare access** in 23502. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the existing **transportation** infrastructure, providing a realistic picture for those considering **moving to Norfolk**.

**Recommendations for 23502 Residents:**

For individuals with hypertension residing in 23502, proactive planning is essential.

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When selecting a primary care physician and specialists, consider their proximity to your residence and ease of access via various **transportation** modes.
* **Utilize Technology:** Leverage ride-sharing apps and online appointment scheduling to streamline the healthcare process.
* **Explore Public Transit:** Familiarize yourself with HRT bus routes and the Tide light rail system.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance, considering potential traffic delays and **transportation** limitations.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public **transportation** and healthcare access in the 23502 area.

By carefully considering these factors and utilizing the available resources, residents of 23502 can navigate the **transportation** landscape and effectively manage their hypertension, ensuring access to the vital healthcare services they need. The key is to proactively assess the **transportation** options and plan accordingly, making informed decisions that prioritize health and well-being when **moving to Norfolk**.