23857, Gasburg, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23857, Gasburg, Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.96 percent of residents in 23857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.96 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gasburg (ZIP Code 23857)

The heart of any community pulses with the rhythm of its residents' health. In Gasburg, Virginia (ZIP Code 23857), a crucial measure of community well-being is the ability to access healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension. This write-up explores the complexities of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** for individuals living with this chronic condition. We'll assess the "Hypertension Score" – a composite metric reflecting the ease and efficiency of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential services. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Gasburg**, ensuring they understand the logistical landscape of their new home.

Gasburg, nestled in the embrace of Brunswick County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare accessibility. The area is predominantly rural, which often translates to longer travel times and fewer readily available options. The Hypertension Score, therefore, will consider the realities of **transportation** in this specific geographic context.

The primary artery of Gasburg's **transportation** network is US-1, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling south on US-1 offers direct access to Emporia, the county seat, where the Brunswick County Health Department and Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center provide essential medical services. The drive from Gasburg to Emporia, a distance of approximately 15 miles, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable commute for those with their own vehicles, but it's the starting point of our analysis.

West of Gasburg, VA-46 provides an alternative route, connecting to the town of Lawrenceville, home to VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital. This journey, roughly 20 miles, also requires approximately 30 minutes of driving. While these routes offer relatively direct access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles introduces a significant variable in the Hypertension Score.

Public **transportation** options in Gasburg are limited. Brunswick County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This absence presents a considerable hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. This constraint significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, as it restricts **healthcare access** for a substantial portion of the population, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who are economically disadvantaged.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be prohibitive for some, adding another layer of complexity to the equation. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, its reliability and affordability are key considerations when calculating the Hypertension Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, are another option. Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare (formerly MTM) operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services often require prior authorization and can have varying wait times, potentially impacting the timely arrival at medical appointments. The availability and efficiency of these services are crucial in determining the Hypertension Score, particularly for those with limited mobility or those without access to other **transportation** alternatives.

The nearest pharmacies are located in Emporia and Lawrenceville. Accessing these pharmacies requires the same **transportation** considerations as accessing medical facilities. This is especially important for individuals with hypertension, who often require regular medication refills. The distance and **transportation** challenges to pharmacies further influence the Hypertension Score.

Beyond the primary medical facilities and pharmacies, the availability of specialized healthcare providers, such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, is also a factor. The need to travel to larger cities like Richmond, approximately 80 miles away, for specialized care adds significant travel time and expense. This long-distance travel further reduces the Hypertension Score, highlighting the limitations of **healthcare access** in this rural setting.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any available **transportation** is also a key consideration. While ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers are generally required to offer accessible vehicles, their availability can be limited. The lack of a robust public **transportation** system with ADA-compliant features is a significant drawback for individuals with disabilities, further lowering the Hypertension Score.

The Hypertension Score for Gasburg (ZIP Code 23857) is, therefore, a reflection of the limited **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. It is a score that underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration for anyone managing hypertension in this area.

For those **moving to Gasburg** with hypertension, understanding these **transportation** challenges is paramount. Proactive planning is crucial. This includes establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, identifying reliable **transportation** options, and ensuring a consistent supply of medication. Understanding the limitations of **healthcare access** in Gasburg is the first step toward managing hypertension effectively in this community.

The Hypertension Score for Gasburg is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that can be improved through community initiatives. Encouraging the expansion of public **transportation** options, promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and ensuring the efficient operation of medical **transportation** providers are all critical steps towards improving **healthcare access** and ultimately, the health of the community.