23523, Norfolk, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23523, Norfolk, Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.10 percent of residents in 23523 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc with a distance of 2.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 23523

Choosing a new home involves myriad considerations, and for individuals managing hypertension, **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the **transportation** landscape within ZIP Code 23523, offering insights into the ease of reaching essential medical appointments, particularly for those requiring regular monitoring and treatment for high blood pressure. This analysis is designed to aid those **moving to Norfolk** and seeking to understand the practicalities of managing their health within this specific geographic area.

ZIP Code 23523, encompassing portions of Norfolk, Virginia, presents a diverse terrain for navigating the complexities of healthcare access. The presence of major thoroughfares, coupled with a public transit system and ride-sharing options, shapes the accessibility of medical facilities. This assessment considers various factors, including drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of alternative transportation services, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the relative ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare within this area.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries governing **transportation** within 23523 are Interstate 64 (I-64) and Interstate 264 (I-264). These highways serve as the backbone of the region's road network, connecting residents to various healthcare providers. However, the notorious traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. A seemingly short distance can transform into a lengthy commute, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension.

For instance, a drive from the eastern edge of 23523 to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major healthcare provider, could involve navigating I-64. During rush hour, this trip, which might appear to be a 15-minute drive on a clear day, can easily stretch to 30 minutes or more. This extended travel time can be stressful, and the potential for delays can disrupt medication schedules and appointment adherence, crucial aspects of managing hypertension.

Similarly, accessing other healthcare facilities within the area, such as Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center or various clinics along Military Highway (Route 168), requires careful consideration of traffic patterns. The strategic use of navigation apps, which provide real-time traffic updates, becomes essential for minimizing travel time and ensuring timely arrival at appointments. The ability to plan routes that avoid congested areas is a key factor in improving the "Hypertension Score" for residents relying on personal vehicles.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the Bus System**

The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system provides public **transportation** options within 23523, offering an alternative to driving. Several bus routes traverse the area, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. However, the efficacy of public transit in facilitating healthcare access is contingent on several factors, including route frequency, travel time, and accessibility features.

Route 20, for example, serves a significant portion of 23523 and provides access to several medical offices and clinics. However, the frequency of buses on this route, especially during off-peak hours, may not be ideal for individuals with time-sensitive medical needs. The total travel time, including potential wait times and transfers, must also be considered. A seemingly direct bus route can become a lengthy journey, potentially adding to the stress associated with managing hypertension.

The HRT system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, with accessible buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. This is a crucial factor for individuals with hypertension who may also have other health conditions that affect their mobility. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the transit system can vary depending on the specific location within 23523.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Mobility Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options within 23523. These services provide on-demand access to vehicles, eliminating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules or personal vehicles. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical **transportation** services, such as CareRide and Firstat, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. While these services offer a valuable resource, their availability and cost can vary. Thorough research into the specific services available within 23523 and their associated costs is essential.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Calculating a definitive "Hypertension Score" requires a complex analysis of the factors discussed above. This assessment would consider drive times during peak and off-peak hours, the frequency and accessibility of public transit routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services, and the proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas.

A higher score would indicate greater ease of **healthcare access**, reflecting shorter drive times, frequent and accessible public transit, affordable ride-sharing options, and readily available medical **transportation** services. Conversely, a lower score would suggest challenges in accessing healthcare, necessitating careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** solutions.

For those **moving to Norfolk** and managing hypertension, understanding these nuances is crucial. The choice of residence within 23523 should consider proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the potential impact of traffic congestion on appointment adherence. This comprehensive analysis provides a starting point for navigating the complexities of **healthcare access** within this ZIP code, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.