23921, Buckingham, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23921, Buckingham, Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.79 percent of residents in 23921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Centra Southside Community Hospital, Inc with a distance of 20.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23921

The tranquil expanse of Buckingham, Virginia, beckons with the promise of a slower pace. Yet, for those considering a move, particularly those managing hypertension, understanding the practicalities of **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 23921, specifically focusing on commute times to essential medical facilities, considering the nuances of **transportation** options and their impact on managing this chronic condition.

Our objective is to provide a 'Hypertension Score' based on the ease of reaching healthcare providers. This score is a subjective measure, reflecting the relative accessibility of medical services, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. We'll consider the practical implications of these options, recognizing that consistent access to care, including medication refills and routine check-ups, is critical for hypertension management.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 23921 is Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville, approximately 20 miles east. The journey typically involves navigating the rural roads, primarily using US-15 and US-60. Driving time fluctuates, averaging 25-35 minutes, influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's familiarity with the route. During peak hours, especially weekdays, traffic can slightly increase commute times.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The Piedmont Area Transportation System (PATS) offers demand-response services, requiring advance booking. While PATS provides door-to-door service, the scheduling process and potential wait times need consideration. Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a key factor. PATS vehicles are ADA-compliant, ensuring access for those with disabilities. However, the reliance on pre-arranged scheduling can present challenges for urgent needs or spontaneous appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, although availability might be inconsistent. The rural nature of Buckingham can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to urban areas. This variability is a significant consideration, particularly for individuals needing regular medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours, is a critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door transport. While providing a dedicated service, they often involve pre-booking and may have associated costs. The availability of NEMT services within 23921 requires further investigation to assess their coverage and responsiveness.

Considering these factors, the 'Hypertension Score' for healthcare access in 23921 is moderately challenging. The drive to Centra Southside Community Hospital, while manageable, requires a personal vehicle or relying on alternative **transportation** options. Public transit, while ADA-compliant, necessitates advance planning. Ride-sharing, although available, might be unreliable. Medical transport offers a dedicated solution, but requires pre-planning and may incur costs.

The availability of local clinics and primary care physicians within Buckingham significantly impacts the overall score. Access to routine check-ups and medication refills close to home is crucial for effective hypertension management. The proximity of these services reduces the reliance on longer commutes and minimizes the stress associated with traveling for medical care.

Further investigation into the specific healthcare providers in the area, including their appointment availability and acceptance of insurance plans, is essential. This information helps determine the ease of accessing medical services and the overall 'Hypertension Score'.

For individuals considering **moving to Buckingham**, the 'Hypertension Score' highlights the importance of careful planning. Assessing the availability of **transportation** options, researching local healthcare providers, and understanding the logistical challenges of accessing medical care are critical steps.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not just about distance; it’s about the overall experience of accessing healthcare. It considers the ease of scheduling appointments, the reliability of **transportation**, and the availability of support services. A higher score indicates greater accessibility and a more manageable experience for individuals with hypertension.

The rural setting of Buckingham presents unique challenges. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive approach. Individuals with hypertension should prioritize finding a primary care physician close to their residence and explore all available **transportation** options.

The availability of telehealth services can also improve the 'Hypertension Score'. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits for routine check-ups and medication management. The accessibility of telehealth services, including reliable internet connectivity, is a crucial factor in the overall assessment.

The 'Hypertension Score' is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving based on changes in **transportation** infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, and the adoption of telehealth technologies. Regular review and updates are essential to provide an accurate assessment of healthcare access in 23921.

The journey from Buckingham to healthcare facilities is primarily via US-15 and US-60. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic during peak hours. Alternative routes are limited, and the reliance on these main roads underscores the importance of careful planning.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 23921 reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. While challenges exist, proactive planning and a clear understanding of available resources can significantly improve the experience for individuals managing hypertension. The score serves as a starting point for a comprehensive assessment, encouraging potential residents to investigate the details of **healthcare access** and ensuring a smooth transition to their new community.