23651, Fort Monroe, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23651, Fort Monroe, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.39 percent of residents in 23651 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hampton Va Medical Center with a distance of 1.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23651

The quaint peninsula of Fort Monroe, encapsulated by ZIP Code 23651, offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and evolving residential options. However, understanding the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension, is crucial. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare delivery. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Fort Monroe, Virginia, and managing their health.

The score considers the availability and efficiency of various transportation modalities to reach essential healthcare facilities specializing in hypertension management. These include primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers. The score will weigh factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation services.

The foundation of healthcare access in 23651 rests on the roadways. Primary routes include Interstate 64 (I-64), the primary artery connecting Hampton Roads, and the scenic but slower Route 60, also known as the "Fort Monroe Connector." The proximity to these roadways significantly impacts healthcare access.

Driving is often the most direct route. The closest primary care physicians and pharmacies are generally located within a 10–15-minute drive, predominantly along Route 60. However, accessing specialist care, such as cardiology appointments, may require travel to Newport News or Hampton, potentially extending drive times to 20–30 minutes, particularly during peak traffic hours. Navigating I-64 during rush hour can significantly impact these times.

Public transportation presents an alternative, though its efficiency is limited. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services in the area. Route 109, the "Fort Monroe Shuttle," offers a direct link to downtown Hampton, connecting with other routes that can reach medical facilities. However, bus routes often have limited frequency, and travel times can be considerably longer than driving, potentially posing challenges for individuals needing urgent care or frequent appointments.

The accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical consideration. HRT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability in the area is generally good, providing a convenient alternative to driving or waiting for the bus. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments, and may not be a viable option for all residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services offer a valuable solution, they typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

The "Hypertension Score" for 23651 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score is not a single number, but rather a nuanced assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Time Assessment:**

The drive time assessment considers the time required to reach key healthcare facilities. The proximity of primary care physicians and pharmacies, accessible within a 10–15-minute drive, contributes positively to the score. However, the longer drive times to specialist care, potentially exceeding 30 minutes during peak traffic, negatively impact the score.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

The public transit assessment evaluates the frequency, route coverage, and travel times of HRT buses. The availability of the Fort Monroe Shuttle (Route 109) provides a direct link to essential services. However, the limited frequency and longer travel times compared to driving contribute to a lower score. The ADA-compliant features of the buses positively influence the score for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing Assessment:**

The ride-sharing assessment considers the availability, cost, and convenience of services like Uber and Lyft. The relatively good availability of these services in the area contributes positively to the score. However, the potential cost, especially for frequent appointments, moderates the positive impact.

**Medical Transportation Assessment:**

The medical transportation assessment considers the availability, cost, and specialized services offered by medical transportation providers. The availability of these services offers a valuable option, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the requirement for pre-booking and associated costs impact the score.

**Overall Score and Recommendations:**

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 23651 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of primary care and pharmacies, combined with the availability of ride-sharing services, offers relatively good access. However, the longer drive times to specialist care, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present challenges.

For individuals managing hypertension, the following recommendations are provided:

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a primary care physician, prioritize those located within a short driving distance or easily accessible via ride-sharing.
* **Plan for specialist appointments:** Factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments with cardiologists or other specialists.
* **Explore public transit options:** Familiarize yourself with HRT routes and schedules, especially Route 109, to understand their feasibility for accessing healthcare.
* **Consider ride-sharing:** Utilize ride-sharing services for convenience, but factor in the cost when budgeting for healthcare expenses.
* **Investigate medical transportation:** Explore medical transportation options, especially if mobility limitations are a concern.
* **Communicate with healthcare providers:** Discuss transportation challenges with your healthcare providers and explore potential solutions, such as telehealth options or appointment scheduling that minimizes travel time.

Moving to Fort Monroe offers a unique lifestyle. However, understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access is vital for residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. By carefully considering these factors and implementing the recommendations, residents of 23651 can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively and maintain their health. The strategic integration of these transportation options is paramount to ensuring healthcare access.