23936, Dillwyn, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 23936, Dillwyn, Virginia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.96 percent of residents in 23936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Centra Southside Community Hospital, Inc with a distance of 16.62 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23936

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, demands reliable access to healthcare. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 23936, encompassing Dillwyn, Virginia, to determine its impact on healthcare access for those with hypertension. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is crucial for residents, especially those considering a move to this rural community, as it directly affects their ability to receive timely medical care. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' perspective.

Dillwyn, nestled in the heart of Buckingham County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, often translates to limited transportation choices, potentially hindering healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare is US-60, a vital artery connecting Dillwyn to larger towns and cities. Driving times to essential healthcare facilities, like Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville, are crucial. Expect a drive of approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 23936. This journey, though manageable, necessitates a personal vehicle and can be a barrier for those without one or with mobility limitations.

Further complicating matters, the winding rural roads connecting Dillwyn to surrounding areas, including State Route 24 and State Route 15, can be challenging to navigate, especially during inclement weather. These roads, while scenic, require careful driving and can extend travel times. The condition of these roads and the potential for delays directly influence the 'Hypertension Score,' as consistent and predictable travel times are essential for managing the condition.

Public transportation options in Dillwyn are limited. The primary provider is the Piedmont Senior Resources Agency on Aging (PSR). PSR offers demand-response transportation, requiring advance booking. While this service is valuable, particularly for seniors and individuals with disabilities, it may not always be readily available for urgent medical needs. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. The reliability and responsiveness of PSR are key factors in assessing the 'Hypertension Score,' as they directly impact the ability to attend appointments and access necessary medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Dillwyn. This presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of readily available ride-sharing options necessitates reliance on alternative transportation, such as family, friends, or medical transport services. This constraint significantly lowers the 'Hypertension Score,' highlighting the need for reliable and accessible transportation alternatives.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Several providers operate in the region, offering transportation specifically for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Thorough research into medical transport options, including their coverage area, cost, and scheduling procedures, is essential for residents of 23936. These services are a critical component of the 'Hypertension Score,' particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those unable to drive.

Moving to Dillwyn, while offering a quieter lifestyle, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. The 'Hypertension Score' is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation, the absence of readily available ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport. Prospective residents with hypertension must prioritize assessing their transportation needs and ensuring they have a reliable plan for accessing healthcare.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 23936 is therefore influenced by the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transport. The score is lower than that of urban areas with readily available and diverse transportation options. This underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing hypertension in Dillwyn.

To improve the 'Hypertension Score,' the community could explore several strategies. Expanding public transportation services, potentially through partnerships with neighboring counties, could enhance healthcare access. Encouraging ride-sharing services to operate in the area, even on a limited basis, would provide additional transportation options. Supporting and promoting medical transport services, ensuring their affordability and accessibility, would be crucial.

Furthermore, the local healthcare providers could play a vital role. Offering telehealth appointments, where feasible, could reduce the need for in-person visits and ease the transportation burden. Providing patient education on available transportation resources and assisting with appointment scheduling could also significantly improve healthcare access.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not merely a numerical assessment; it's a reflection of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension in 23936. Understanding the transportation landscape, proactively planning for healthcare access, and advocating for community improvements are essential for ensuring that residents can effectively manage their health and well-being. The successful management of hypertension in Dillwyn requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing individual responsibility, community support, and healthcare provider initiatives.