23692, Yorktown, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23692, Yorktown, Virginia is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.21 percent of residents in 23692 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 3.63 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Yorktown (ZIP Code 23692)

Yorktown, Virginia, a historic gem nestled on the York River, offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern living. For those considering a move to ZIP code 23692, understanding the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on reaching essential medical care. The goal is to paint a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities that await residents requiring consistent and timely healthcare, especially those managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies. Factors evaluated include drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. The lower the score, the better the accessibility.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for navigating Yorktown are the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, connecting the Peninsula to the Middle Peninsula, and Interstate 64 (I-64), the major east-west thoroughfare. Route 17, also known as George Washington Memorial Highway, runs north-south, offering access to local businesses and residential areas. The speed and reliability of these routes are crucial for timely healthcare access.

For residents in the heart of 23692, reaching the nearest primary care physician or cardiologist might involve a short drive. However, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, travel times can vary significantly. A drive to Riverside Doctors' Hospital in Williamsburg, a key healthcare provider, would likely involve navigating I-64. Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can significantly impact these commute times. Expect a 15-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions.

Similarly, accessing specialists in Newport News or Hampton, particularly for advanced cardiac care, might necessitate a drive of 30-45 minutes, again relying on I-64 and potentially Route 17. This underscores the importance of considering commute times when planning medical appointments and managing medication schedules. For individuals with hypertension, timely access to medication refills and regular check-ups is critical.

**Public Transit Perspectives:**

Public transportation in Yorktown and the surrounding areas is provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT). While HRT offers bus routes, their coverage in 23692 is limited, particularly within the more residential areas. The primary route serving Yorktown is Route 106, which connects to Newport News and Hampton.

Unfortunately, the frequency of Route 106 is not optimal for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the routes are not designed to provide direct access to many medical facilities. Individuals relying on public transportation will likely need to factor in significant walk times or transfers, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or those experiencing symptoms related to hypertension.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. HRT strives to provide accessible buses and facilities, but the overall reliance on public transit for comprehensive healthcare access presents significant hurdles for many residents. The limited availability of public transit in Yorktown presents a challenge for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services can be readily available in Yorktown, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can quickly accumulate, becoming a financial burden for individuals managing chronic conditions.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. Companies like First Transit and Medical Transport Services of Virginia operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, making them ideal for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. However, these services require advance booking and may have associated costs, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Pharmacy Access and Medication Management:**

The availability of pharmacies within 23692 is generally good, with several major pharmacy chains and independent pharmacies located in the area. Access to medication refills is crucial for hypertension management. However, the distance to pharmacies and the ease of transportation to these locations must be considered.

Drive-thru pharmacy services and online prescription refills can improve medication access. Understanding the specific pharmacy options and their services is essential for effective hypertension management. The ability to conveniently pick up prescriptions is a critical aspect of overall healthcare access.

**The "Hypertension Score" Summary:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 23692 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some flexibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Drive times to healthcare providers can vary, and traffic congestion can impact appointment schedules.

For individuals considering moving to Yorktown and managing hypertension, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Factors such as the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to afford ride-sharing or medical transport services should be carefully evaluated.

The "Hypertension Score" for 23692 is moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit can create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare access. Residents should proactively explore all available transportation options and plan for potential challenges to ensure effective hypertension management.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When selecting a residence, consider the proximity to primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies.
* **Explore ride-sharing and medical transport:** Familiarize yourself with the available ride-sharing and medical transport services and their associated costs.
* **Plan for traffic:** Factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Utilize online resources:** Explore online prescription refill options and telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transportation options in the area, particularly those that enhance access to healthcare facilities.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can navigate the healthcare landscape in Yorktown and effectively manage their hypertension, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in this charming community. The focus should be on proactive planning and leveraging all available resources to ensure consistent and timely access to essential healthcare services.