20136, Bristow, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20136, Bristow, Virginia is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.72 percent of residents in 20136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Prince William Medical Center with a distance of 4.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20136

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Bristow, Virginia (ZIP code 20136) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, heavily influenced by the transportation infrastructure. The ability to reach medical facilities swiftly and reliably is paramount to individual well-being. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, painting a picture of the ease—or difficulty—with which residents can access vital healthcare services.

The primary arteries of transportation within and around 20136 are crucial. Interstate 66 (I-66) serves as a major east-west corridor, facilitating travel to and from Washington, D.C., and the surrounding suburbs. Route 28, a significant north-south thoroughfare, provides access to commercial centers and other key destinations. Route 29, another vital road, offers an alternative route and connects to various communities. The efficiency of these roads directly impacts the commute times to healthcare facilities.

Drive times vary depending on the destination and time of day. During peak hours, congestion on I-66 can significantly extend travel times, particularly for those commuting eastward towards the nation’s capital. Route 28 can also experience heavy traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes. However, outside of rush hour, travel to nearby hospitals and clinics is typically more manageable. The average drive time to Prince William Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Other facilities, such as the Novant Health UVA Health System facilities, might require a slightly longer commute, depending on their location.

Public transportation options in 20136 offer an alternative to driving, although their availability and convenience can be a limiting factor. The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) provides commuter rail service, connecting Bristow to Washington, D.C., and other areas. The Broad Run/Airport Station, located within the ZIP code, offers a direct link to the city. While the VRE can be a reliable option for those working in the city, its schedule may not be ideal for accessing healthcare appointments, especially during off-peak hours or on weekends.

The local bus system, operated by OmniRide, provides bus routes within Prince William County. These routes connect to various destinations, including healthcare facilities. The OmniRide routes serving 20136 include the 600 series, offering connections to the Manassas area, where several medical centers are located. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. OmniRide buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and wheelchair accommodations, ensuring that all residents can access public transportation. However, the frequency of bus service may not be sufficient for everyone's needs, particularly those requiring immediate medical attention.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular, providing on-demand transportation options. These services can be a convenient way to access healthcare facilities, especially for those without personal vehicles or those who prefer not to drive. The availability of these services in 20136 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. The cost should be factored into the overall health score.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transport Services offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility devices. These services are particularly valuable for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those recovering from surgery. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations when evaluating healthcare access.

The overall health score for 20136 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. While the presence of major highways and roads provides good access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion can negatively impact commute times. Public transportation options offer alternatives, but their schedules and frequency may not be ideal for all needs. Ride-sharing services provide convenient on-demand transportation, but the cost can be a deterrent. Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for those with mobility limitations.

For those considering moving to Bristow, assessing healthcare access is a crucial part of the decision-making process. Understanding the available transportation options and their associated costs and limitations is essential. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the efficiency of the transportation infrastructure, and the availability of alternative transportation services all contribute to the overall health score.

To improve the health score, investments in public transportation infrastructure could be beneficial. Increasing the frequency of bus service, expanding the VRE network, and improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure would enhance healthcare access. Encouraging the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could also help. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would be valuable.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 20136 is relatively good, given the presence of major highways, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding traffic congestion, the cost of ride-sharing, and the limitations of public transportation schedules. By addressing these challenges and investing in improved transportation infrastructure, the overall health score for 20136 can be further enhanced, ensuring that all residents have convenient and affordable access to vital healthcare services. The ability to reach healthcare facilities efficiently is a cornerstone of a healthy community, and continuous efforts to improve transportation options are crucial for the well-being of Bristow residents.