24017, Roanoke, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24017, Roanoke, Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.81 percent of residents in 24017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Va Medical Center with a distance of 2.37 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 24017

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing hypertension, necessitates reliable **healthcare access**. This write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 24017 in Roanoke, Virginia, examines the intricate relationship between **transportation** options and the ability to receive timely medical care. It's crucial information for anyone **moving to Roanoke**, especially those with existing health concerns. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment.

The 24017 ZIP Code encompasses a significant portion of the city, including areas like Grandin Court, Raleigh Court, and parts of Southwest Roanoke. This diverse landscape presents a variety of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The ability to quickly and efficiently reach medical facilities is paramount for individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a dominant mode of **transportation** in Roanoke. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Interstate 581, U.S. Route 220, and U.S. Route 460. These highways offer relatively quick access to major hospitals and clinics, such as Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and LewisGale Medical Center, though rush hour can significantly impact travel times.

From the Grandin Court area, a drive to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, located near downtown, typically takes 10-15 minutes via I-581 and Williamson Road, assuming moderate traffic. However, during peak commuting hours, this journey could extend to 20-25 minutes. LewisGale Medical Center, situated in the Cave Spring area, is accessible via U.S. Route 220, with a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes under normal conditions.

Residents of the Raleigh Court area might find slightly longer drive times. Accessing Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital involves navigating city streets or utilizing I-581, potentially adding a few minutes to the commute. LewisGale Medical Center is reachable via U.S. Route 220, but traffic congestion near the hospital can impact travel times.

**Public Transit: The Bus Route to Wellness**

Roanoke's public transit system, operated by Valley MetroMetro, provides an alternative to driving. Several bus routes traverse the 24017 ZIP Code, offering access to healthcare facilities. Route 32, for example, serves the Grandin Court area and provides a connection to downtown, where Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital is located. Route 39 also provides access to downtown.

Valley Metro strives to be ADA-compliant, with accessible buses and designated stops. However, bus schedules and frequency can be limiting factors. Waiting times, transfers, and potential delays can impact the efficiency of accessing healthcare, particularly for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute health issues.

The availability of bus stops near healthcare facilities is another crucial consideration. While many facilities are accessible via bus routes, the proximity of the stop to the entrance can vary. Individuals with mobility limitations might face challenges navigating from the bus stop to the medical facility, adding to the overall time and effort required for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options for the Needy**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving and public transit. These services can provide on-demand **transportation** to healthcare appointments, eliminating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer specialized **transportation** options. Companies like MedRide and other local providers offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. These services are often covered by insurance for eligible individuals.

The availability and cost of medical transport services are crucial considerations for individuals with hypertension who may have difficulty driving or using public transit. These services can provide a vital link to healthcare, ensuring that patients can attend appointments and receive necessary medical care.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" involves considering the interplay of all these factors. The score should reflect the ease and efficiency with which residents of 24017 can access healthcare facilities for managing hypertension.

Factors to consider include:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major hospitals and clinics during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Availability of bus routes, frequency of service, and ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** Availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical transport options.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** Accessibility to pharmacies for medication refills.

A higher score indicates better **healthcare access**, with shorter drive times, reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and accessible medical transport options. Conversely, a lower score suggests greater challenges in accessing healthcare, potentially impacting the management of hypertension.

**Moving to Roanoke: A Strategic Approach**

For individuals **moving to Roanoke**, especially those with hypertension, understanding the **transportation** landscape is essential. Choosing a residence within close proximity to healthcare facilities, bus routes, or readily available ride-sharing services can significantly improve **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, exploring insurance coverage for medical transport services is advisable. Researching the availability of pharmacies near the chosen residence is also crucial for ensuring convenient access to medications.

The "Hypertension Score" for 24017 is a dynamic assessment, constantly influenced by traffic patterns, public transit improvements, and the evolution of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Staying informed about these developments is crucial for optimizing **healthcare access** and effectively managing hypertension.