23821, Alberta, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23821, Alberta, Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.10 percent of residents in 23821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.76 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23821

The quest for optimal health, particularly when managing conditions like hypertension, demands reliable healthcare access. This write-up assesses the landscape of healthcare accessibility within ZIP code 23821, focusing on transportation options and their impact on a resident's ability to receive timely and consistent care. We’ll explore the challenges and opportunities for those living in this area, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately aiming to provide a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.

The foundation of this analysis rests on understanding the geographical layout of 23821. This ZIP code, nestled within a specific region, likely encompasses a mix of residential areas, commercial zones, and potentially, rural pockets. The availability of transportation options varies considerably depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. We will consider the most common routes to healthcare facilities, paying close attention to the primary arteries that dictate movement.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the major roadways are crucial. Interstate 95 (I-95) likely serves as a primary north-south corridor, connecting residents to larger healthcare hubs. Depending on the precise location within 23821, travel times to hospitals and clinics along I-95 can fluctuate considerably. The speed and efficiency of travel on I-95, however, are often subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Route 1 (also known as Jefferson Davis Highway) offers an alternative route, though it is often slower due to traffic lights and a higher volume of local traffic. Smaller roads and county routes further influence accessibility, providing connections to local medical practices and urgent care facilities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are critical determinants of healthcare access. We will estimate travel times to the nearest hospitals, specialist clinics, and primary care physicians. These estimates will consider the distance, the expected traffic conditions at various times of day, and the average speed limits on the relevant roadways. For instance, a resident living in the northern part of 23821 might face a longer commute to a hospital located south of the ZIP code, particularly during rush hour. Conversely, someone living closer to a local clinic might experience significantly shorter drive times. These variations contribute directly to the overall “Hypertension Score.”

Public transportation presents another facet of healthcare access. The availability and efficiency of bus routes, for example, can significantly impact those without personal vehicles or those who prefer not to drive. The presence of dedicated bus routes serving the area, including their frequency and coverage, will be considered. The specific bus routes, their numbers, and their operational hours will be investigated. The availability of wheelchair accessibility (ADA compliance) on these routes is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access healthcare services.

The efficiency of public transit is often measured by the time it takes to travel to key healthcare destinations. The duration of the bus ride, the frequency of service, and the distance from bus stops to medical facilities all influence the overall experience. The “Hypertension Score” will reflect the convenience and reliability of public transportation options, acknowledging that public transit can be a vital lifeline for many residents.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative, particularly for those who may not have access to a car or who find public transportation challenging. The availability and cost-effectiveness of these services within 23821 will be assessed. The waiting times for ride-sharing services, the average fares to healthcare facilities, and the overall reliability of these services are essential considerations. The “Hypertension Score” will incorporate these factors, recognizing that ride-sharing can bridge the gap in transportation access for some residents.

Medical transportation services specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments provide another option. Companies specializing in medical transport offer door-to-door service, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. The availability of these services within 23821, the range of services offered (e.g., wheelchair transport, stretcher transport), and the associated costs will be examined. The “Hypertension Score” will account for the availability of medical transport, recognizing that these services can be a critical resource for individuals with significant mobility limitations or other medical needs.

Healthcare access is also influenced by the location of healthcare facilities. The proximity of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to residential areas is a crucial factor. The concentration of healthcare providers within 23821, or the need to travel outside the ZIP code for specialized care, impacts the overall accessibility. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance will be considered. The “Hypertension Score” will reflect the density and distribution of healthcare providers, acknowledging that proximity to care is a key determinant of health outcomes.

The cost of transportation is another important consideration. The expenses associated with driving (fuel, vehicle maintenance, parking), public transportation fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation costs all contribute to the overall financial burden of accessing healthcare. The “Hypertension Score” will factor in the affordability of transportation options, recognizing that cost can be a significant barrier to care for many residents.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The addition of new healthcare facilities, the expansion of public transportation routes, and the emergence of innovative transportation solutions can all impact healthcare access. The “Hypertension Score” will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the current state of transportation and healthcare access within 23821.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within 23821, specifically focusing on transportation options. By considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, medical transport, and the availability of healthcare providers, we can develop a “Hypertension Score” that reflects the ease with which residents can receive timely and consistent care. This score will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike, helping to identify areas where improvements in transportation and healthcare access are needed.

For those considering moving to Alberta, or any other location, understanding the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access within 23821, which can be applied to other locations. The factors considered here, such as drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of alternative transportation solutions, are universally relevant when assessing healthcare access in any community. The “Hypertension Score” serves as a practical measure of healthcare accessibility, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking to manage their health effectively.