24013, Roanoke, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24013, Roanoke, Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.24 percent of residents in 24013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Medical Center with a distance of 1.37 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 24013

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates reliable access to healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 24013, Roanoke, Virginia, assessing its impact on healthcare access for residents, especially those seeking to manage their blood pressure. We'll explore the nuances of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, offering a comprehensive perspective for those considering moving to Roanoke or seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

ZIP Code 24013, encompassing a significant portion of the city, presents a diverse geography, from bustling urban centers to more residential areas. This diversity influences transportation options and, consequently, healthcare accessibility. Residents' ability to reach their physicians, pharmacies, and specialized medical facilities directly impacts their ability to adhere to treatment plans, a critical factor in controlling hypertension.

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Roanoke. The major arteries, including Interstate 581 (I-581), US Route 220 (US-220), and US Route 460 (US-460), serve as vital conduits, connecting residents to various healthcare providers. Commute times, however, can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Morning and evening rush hours often congest these roadways, potentially delaying critical appointments and increasing stress levels, which is counterproductive for those managing hypertension.

For instance, a drive from the Grandin Village area, a popular residential enclave within 24013, to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare hub, typically takes 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours via I-581. However, during peak traffic, this commute can easily extend to 20-30 minutes, adding to the burden of healthcare access. Similarly, travel to LewisGale Medical Center, another prominent facility, might involve navigating US-220 and could take a similar amount of time, dependent on traffic.

Public transportation, primarily offered by Valley MetroMetro, provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid the stress of driving. Several bus routes traverse ZIP Code 24013, connecting residents to various healthcare destinations. Route 32, for example, serves areas along Brambleton Avenue, offering access to several medical offices and clinics. Route 31 provides access to the Towers Shopping Center and the surrounding medical offices. Route 30 provides access to the Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

However, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with hypertension requires careful consideration. While Valley Metro strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring ease of boarding and alighting, the frequency of service and route coverage can be limiting. Some areas within 24013 may have limited bus access, necessitating longer walks to bus stops or transfers, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those experiencing symptoms associated with hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing commute times and offering door-to-door service. For individuals managing hypertension, ride-sharing can eliminate the stress of driving, parking, and navigating traffic. The availability and cost of these services, however, can vary depending on demand and time of day, which should be factored into healthcare planning.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. Companies like FirstCall Medical Transportation and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transport, ensuring individuals can reach their appointments safely and reliably. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and comfort.

The integration of these transportation options is paramount for optimizing healthcare access within 24013. Individuals managing hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, considering factors such as commute times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options. This proactive approach empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, ensuring they can adhere to treatment plans and receive timely medical attention.

Moving to Roanoke, and specifically into ZIP Code 24013, requires a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape. Prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare providers to their desired neighborhoods, evaluate the accessibility of public transit, and consider the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. This proactive approach ensures they can seamlessly integrate into the community and maintain their health.

Furthermore, healthcare providers and community organizations play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare access. They can provide transportation assistance, offer telehealth services, and advocate for improved public transit infrastructure. By collaborating, these stakeholders can create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for all residents of 24013, particularly those managing hypertension.

In conclusion, the transportation infrastructure within ZIP Code 24013 presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges for individuals managing hypertension. While driving remains a dominant mode of transportation, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services offer viable alternatives. By carefully considering these options, individuals can navigate the transportation landscape effectively, ensuring they can access the healthcare they need to manage their condition and maintain their well-being. The success of managing hypertension relies on a multifaceted approach, and transportation is a vital component of that approach.