23890, Waverly, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23890, Waverly, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.46 percent of residents in 23890 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southside Medical Center with a distance of 18.32 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Waverly, Virginia (ZIP Code 23890)

Moving to a new community, especially one with a rural character like Waverly, Virginia, requires careful consideration of various factors. For individuals managing hypertension, a critical aspect is **healthcare access**, specifically the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to medical appointments and pharmacies. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment for ZIP Code 23890, examining the available **transportation** options and their impact on accessing necessary healthcare services. This analysis will be vital for anyone considering **moving to Waverly**, particularly those managing chronic conditions.

The foundation of this assessment rests on understanding the geography of Waverly and its surrounding areas. Waverly, a town nestled in Sussex County, is characterized by a relatively low population density and a reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary roadways influencing **healthcare access** are US Route 460, a major east-west artery, and Virginia Route 31, which provides north-south connectivity. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, potentially impacting **drive-times** to medical facilities.

**Drive-Times and Accessibility**

The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in the surrounding towns of Wakefield and Smithfield. Both towns offer a range of medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies. The **drive-time** to Wakefield, primarily via US Route 460, is approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Smithfield, accessible via a combination of US Route 460 and Virginia Route 10, presents a slightly longer **drive-time**, typically ranging from 20-25 minutes. These **drive-times** are crucial for individuals with hypertension, as timely access to medication refills, routine check-ups, and emergency care is paramount.

**Public Transportation Limitations**

Public **transportation** options within ZIP Code 23890 are limited. Sussex County does not currently have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of readily available public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, especially the elderly and individuals with disabilities. The absence of a robust public transit network presents a considerable challenge for managing hypertension, as it necessitates reliance on alternative **transportation** methods.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

The absence of public **transportation** also raises concerns about **ADA accessibility**. Individuals with disabilities may face significant hurdles in accessing healthcare facilities. The availability of wheelchair-accessible **transportation** options is essential for ensuring equitable **healthcare access**. Further investigation into the availability of accessible **transportation** services is critical.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Options**

While public **transportation** is lacking, ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, may offer some degree of **transportation** support. However, the availability of these services in rural areas can be inconsistent, and wait times may be longer compared to urban environments. Furthermore, the cost of ride-share services can accumulate, posing a financial burden for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance, are another consideration. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, offering door-to-door service for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of medical **transportation** can be limited, and advance booking is usually required. Potential providers include CareRide and FirstCall Medical Transportation.

**Pharmacy Access and Medication Management**

Access to pharmacies is another critical aspect of managing hypertension. Several pharmacies are located in the neighboring towns of Wakefield and Smithfield, accessible via the routes previously mentioned. The **drive-times** to these pharmacies are generally manageable, but the absence of local pharmacy options within Waverly necessitates planning for medication refills and pick-ups. Managing medication refills and adherence to prescribed regimens is vital for effective hypertension control.

**Emergency Medical Services**

Emergency medical services (EMS) are vital for any community. The Sussex County Department of Public Safety provides emergency medical services to residents of ZIP Code 23890. Response times to medical emergencies are influenced by the geographic location and the availability of emergency vehicles. The proximity of hospitals in Wakefield and Smithfield is crucial for rapid access to emergency care.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 23890 can be assessed as follows:

* **Drive-time:** Relatively good, with accessible healthcare facilities within a reasonable **drive-time**.
* **Public Transportation:** Poor, with a significant lack of public transit options.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Potentially limited and inconsistent.
* **Medical Transportation:** Available, but may require advance booking and potentially be limited in scope.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Accessible, but requires travel to neighboring towns.

**Overall Assessment:**

The overall "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 23890 is moderate. While the **drive-times** to healthcare facilities and pharmacies are manageable, the absence of public **transportation** and the potential limitations of ride-share services present significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of medical **transportation** services provides a crucial support system, but its accessibility and reliability must be carefully considered.

**Recommendations for Residents with Hypertension**

For individuals with hypertension considering **moving to Waverly** or residing in ZIP Code 23890, the following recommendations are crucial:

1. **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your ability to drive or secure reliable **transportation** for medical appointments.
2. **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Research and establish contact with medical **transportation** providers in advance.
3. **Plan for Medication Refills:** Develop a system for timely medication refills, considering the **drive-time** to pharmacies.
4. **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, prioritize housing options closer to healthcare facilities or pharmacies.
5. **Emergency Preparedness:** Familiarize yourself with emergency medical services and response times.

**Conclusion**

Managing hypertension requires proactive planning and access to timely healthcare. While Waverly offers a desirable rural lifestyle, individuals with hypertension must carefully consider the **transportation** challenges. By understanding the **drive-times**, limitations of public **transportation**, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options, residents can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape and maintain optimal health. This "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 23890 and making informed decisions about **moving to Waverly**. The ability to consistently access medical care and medication is paramount for managing hypertension and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.