23696, Seaford, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23696, Seaford, Virginia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.26 percent of residents in 23696 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 5.53 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seaford, VA (ZIP Code 23696)

This analysis provides a comprehensive “Hypertension Score” for residents of Seaford, Virginia (ZIP Code 23696), focusing on transportation options and healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport services to assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments and maintain their health. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents, especially those considering moving to Seaford, and empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The foundation of managing hypertension lies in regular monitoring and access to medical care. This requires reliable transportation to physician appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency services. The "Hypertension Score" attempts to quantify the accessibility of these services within the Seaford area, recognizing that transportation challenges can significantly impact health outcomes.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Seaford, a charming coastal community, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, the Yorktown Naval Weapons Station, and the Colonial Parkway. From the heart of Seaford, a trip to the nearest major medical facility, Riverside Doctors' Hospital Williamsburg, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves navigating Route 17 (George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge) and then utilizing the I-64 corridor.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and around the bridge, can extend travel times. Residents should factor in these potential delays, especially when scheduling appointments. Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in the immediate vicinity, potentially reducing drive times for routine check-ups. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger hospitals.

The drive to Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center is slightly further, typically taking around 30-35 minutes, and involves similar roadways. The availability of multiple hospital options provides residents with choices, but the distances highlight the importance of reliable personal transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Seaford are limited. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system serves the broader region, but its routes within Seaford are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Route 116, for instance, offers limited service along Route 17, potentially serving as a partial solution for some residents.

Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is crucial. HRT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent schedules and potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension, particularly those with mobility limitations or who require frequent medical appointments.

The lack of comprehensive public transportation underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access in Seaford. This situation highlights the need for residents to consider the availability and cost of these alternatives when evaluating their healthcare options.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Seaford area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by MedTrans or Firstat Nursing Services, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While these services offer a valuable solution, they typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transportation.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers a safety net for residents without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, the cost and potential for limited availability should be considered when assessing their long-term suitability for managing hypertension.

**The "Hypertension Score" Calculation:**

The "Hypertension Score" is a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities contribute positively to the score.
* **Public Transit:** The availability of frequent and reliable public transit options enhances the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of these services improve the score.

The final score is a subjective assessment, reflecting the overall ease with which residents can access healthcare services. It serves as a guide for individuals, especially those considering moving to Seaford, to understand the transportation challenges and opportunities related to managing hypertension.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For residents of Seaford managing hypertension, several considerations are essential.

* **Prioritize regular check-ups:** Schedule appointments in advance to ensure timely access to care.
* **Factor in traffic:** Account for potential delays, especially during peak hours and bridge crossings.
* **Explore transportation options:** Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing, medical transport, and public transit.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and pharmacies.
* **Advocate for improved transportation:** Support initiatives to enhance public transportation options in the area.

For individuals considering moving to Seaford, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial. Evaluate the availability of reliable transportation to healthcare facilities and factor in the potential costs associated with alternative options. Understanding these factors will allow for informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Seaford, VA (23696) highlights the importance of transportation in managing hypertension. While the area offers some healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability must be considered. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare access, residents of Seaford can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their well-being. The score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ease with which individuals can reach them.