24011, Roanoke, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24011, Roanoke, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.75 percent of residents in 24011 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Medical Center with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 24011

Considering a move to Roanoke, Virginia, specifically ZIP code 24011? This area, encompassing parts of the city and surrounding communities, offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. However, understanding healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a detailed 'Hypertension Score' assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for consistent monitoring and treatment.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands diligent management. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments are vital. The ability to easily access healthcare providers significantly impacts a patient's ability to maintain control. Therefore, our 'Hypertension Score' evaluates the ease of transportation to medical facilities from various points within 24011, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around 24011 are Interstate 581, Interstate 81, and US Route 220. These roadways are critical for commuting to healthcare providers. Drive times are significantly impacted by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. A typical commute to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from central 24011 via I-581 can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Accessing LewisGale Medical Center, located in Salem, Virginia, via I-81 and US-11, might take 20 to 30 minutes, again subject to traffic fluctuations.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout the area, often accessible via local roads like Brambleton Avenue, Franklin Road, and Williamson Road, offer more localized options. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, but can still be affected by traffic congestion. Understanding these drive-time dynamics is essential for planning appointments and ensuring timely access to care, especially during emergencies.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Roanoke Valley Transportation Commission (RVTC), operating as Valley MetroMetro, provides public transportation within the region. Several bus routes serve 24011, offering an alternative to driving. Route 32, for instance, travels along Williamson Road, providing access to various medical offices and pharmacies. Route 20, traversing Franklin Road, connects to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Route 10, operating along Brambleton Avenue, provides access to additional healthcare providers.

Valley Metro buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, bus schedules and frequency can be a limiting factor. Travel times via public transit are generally longer than driving, often requiring 30 to 60 minutes or more to reach medical facilities, potentially impacting the ability to attend appointments regularly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the Roanoke area, offering a convenient transportation option, especially for those unable to drive or without access to a vehicle. Ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, reducing the complexities of navigating public transit or parking. However, costs can vary depending on demand and distance, potentially impacting affordability for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges or other specific needs, are also available. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedTrans offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot utilize other transportation options, ensuring access to essential healthcare. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve higher costs.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Roanoke:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 24011 highlights a mixed bag of transportation options. While drive times to major healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, traffic congestion can be a concern. Public transit provides an accessible alternative, but travel times can be lengthy. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer valuable solutions for specific needs, but affordability and availability must be considered.

For individuals managing hypertension, proximity to healthcare providers and the ease of transportation are paramount. When considering a move to Roanoke, it is crucial to assess the location within 24011 relative to healthcare facilities. Those residing closer to major roads like I-581 and US-220 may benefit from quicker access to hospitals and specialist offices. Residents relying on public transit should carefully evaluate bus routes and schedules to ensure convenient access to their healthcare providers.

Furthermore, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options is vital, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. Understanding these transportation dynamics and proactively planning for healthcare access is crucial for successfully managing hypertension and enjoying a healthy life in the Roanoke area.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 24011 underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. While Roanoke offers a range of options, from driving to public transit and ride-sharing, each comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Individuals managing hypertension must carefully assess these factors to ensure they can consistently access the care they need, promoting optimal health and well-being.