23702, Portsmouth, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23702, Portsmouth, Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.87 percent of residents in 23702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center with a distance of 2.53 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Portsmouth, VA (ZIP Code 23702)

Considering a move to Portsmouth, Virginia (ZIP code 23702) and concerned about managing hypertension? This write-up explores the crucial link between your health and the ease with which you can access vital healthcare services. We’ll delve into the intricate network of transportation options available, assessing their impact on your ability to receive timely and effective care, ultimately providing a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the challenges and opportunities in this specific location. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all critical elements influencing healthcare access.

Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount. A smooth journey to your doctor's appointment can significantly reduce stress, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure. Conversely, navigating a complex and time-consuming commute can exacerbate existing health conditions. This analysis aims to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring your healthcare needs are met efficiently and effectively.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in proximity. For residents of 23702, the primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Interstate 264 (I-264) and US Route 17. I-264 offers relatively quick access to major medical facilities, including Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center and Portsmouth Naval Medical Center. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can dramatically increase drive times. US Route 17 provides a more direct route to some clinics but is often subject to stop-and-go traffic, especially near intersections.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the time of day and specific destination. A typical drive to Maryview Medical Center from central 23702 might take 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours via I-264. However, during rush hour, this could easily double. Similarly, accessing clinics along US Route 17 might involve a 10-20 minute drive, potentially longer if you encounter traffic delays. Consider the impact of these variables on your ability to attend regular check-ups, medication refills, and emergency appointments.

Public transportation plays a crucial role for those without personal vehicles. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) operates several bus routes serving 23702. Routes 1, 2, 10, and 15 offer varying degrees of coverage throughout the zip code, connecting residents to key destinations like medical centers and pharmacies. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, especially during evenings and weekends.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the overall travel time on public transit is often significantly longer than driving. A bus trip to Maryview Medical Center, for instance, could take 30-45 minutes, potentially involving transfers and waiting times. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for individuals with hypertension, as it increases the time spent in potentially stressful environments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. They provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, bypassing the limitations of fixed bus schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further inflate the cost, making it less accessible for individuals on a fixed income.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other health concerns. Companies like MedTran and Firstat Medical Transport offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option than ride-sharing. However, it's essential to verify insurance coverage and book appointments in advance, as demand for these services can be high.

The availability of pharmacies within 23702 is another crucial aspect of healthcare access. Numerous pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and independent pharmacies, are strategically located throughout the zip code. This proximity ensures easy access to medication refills and other pharmaceutical services, reducing the need for extensive travel. However, the availability of specific medications and the waiting times for prescriptions can vary.

Considering all these factors, we can formulate a “Hypertension Score” for 23702. The score, on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the most favorable), reflects the overall ease of accessing healthcare services related to hypertension management.

**Factors Considered:**

* **Drive Times:** (20% weight) - Average drive times to major medical facilities and clinics, considering traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit:** (25% weight) - Frequency, accessibility, and travel times of HRT bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability & Cost:** (15% weight) - Availability of Uber and Lyft, and the average cost of trips.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** (15% weight) - Availability and affordability of medical transport options.
* **Pharmacy Access:** (15% weight) - Proximity and accessibility of pharmacies.
* **Overall Stress of Commute:** (10% weight) - The psychological impact of the transportation options on an individual with hypertension.

**Calculation:**

Based on the analysis, the Hypertension Score for 23702 is estimated to be **6.5 out of 10**.

**Justification:**

The score reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major medical facilities, pharmacies, and ride-sharing services provides reasonable healthcare access, the reliance on vehicular transportation and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can increase stress levels, impacting blood pressure management. The cost of ride-sharing and the need for advance booking for medical transport can also create barriers. However, the availability of HRT buses with ADA features and the proximity of pharmacies offer some advantages.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a residence within 23702, consider locations with easy access to I-264 or US Route 17 and close proximity to pharmacies and medical facilities.
* **Explore public transit:** Familiarize yourself with HRT bus routes and schedules. Consider utilizing public transit for non-emergency appointments to reduce stress and save on transportation costs.
* **Utilize ride-sharing strategically:** Use ride-sharing services for urgent appointments or when public transit is unavailable. Compare costs and consider the impact of surge pricing.
* **Investigate medical transportation:** If you have mobility limitations, explore medical transportation options and verify insurance coverage.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and allow ample time for travel, especially during peak hours.
* **Communicate with your healthcare provider:** Discuss your transportation challenges with your doctor and explore options for remote monitoring or telehealth appointments.

Moving to Portsmouth and managing hypertension requires careful planning. By understanding the transportation landscape within 23702, you can proactively address potential challenges and create a healthcare access plan that prioritizes your well-being. This “Hypertension Score” provides a starting point for making informed decisions, ensuring a healthier and more manageable lifestyle.