The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 22214, Arlington, Virginia is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 22214 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virginia Hospital Center with a distance of 3.33 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 22214, Arlington, Virginia
Overall Health Score | 63 |
---|---|
People Score | 1 |
Provider Score | 88 |
Hospital Score | 64 |
Travel Score | 57 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 22214 | Arlington | Virginia |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 9.07 | 2.76 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 41.12 | 18.70 |
2 Cars | 0.00 | 36.06 | 40.01 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 13.75 | 38.53 |
Vehicular Access in 22214, Arlington, Virginia
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 22214
Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access in Arlington, Virginia, specifically within the 22214 ZIP code, requires a comprehensive understanding of transportation options and their impact on overall health. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to empower residents and prospective movers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.
The 22214 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Arlington, presents a unique challenge. While the area is generally considered well-served, the reality of healthcare access hinges on effective transportation. The score will reflect the efficiency and convenience of reaching various medical facilities, encompassing primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers.
**Driving the Healthcare Narrative:**
For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access are the major highways. The primary route is Interstate 66 (I-66), a crucial east-west corridor, offering access to hospitals like Virginia Hospital Center, a major healthcare provider in the region. However, I-66 is notorious for congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. This can significantly impact drive times, turning a theoretically quick trip into a stressful and time-consuming ordeal.
Other crucial roads include George Washington Memorial Parkway, providing access to facilities along the Potomac River, and Route 50 (Arlington Boulevard), another major thoroughfare. The time it takes to travel these roads is a key component of the health score. The efficiency of the commute is directly related to the time spent in traffic, which can exacerbate stress and potentially delay access to urgent medical care.
The health score will also consider the availability of parking at healthcare facilities. Limited parking or high parking fees can further complicate the commute and add to the overall burden of healthcare access.
**Public Transit: A Vital Lifeline:**
Arlington boasts a robust public transportation system, primarily centered around the Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) – the Metro. The Orange and Silver lines are the most relevant for 22214 residents, offering access to numerous healthcare facilities. The Orange Line, with stations like Ballston-MU and Virginia Square-GMU, provides direct access to medical offices and hospitals. The Silver Line, while not directly serving 22214, offers connections to other lines, expanding the network.
The health score will reflect the accessibility of Metro stations, including the distance from residential areas and the availability of pedestrian-friendly pathways. The frequency of trains, especially during off-peak hours, is a crucial factor. A reliable and frequent service significantly improves the overall score.
Furthermore, the analysis will consider the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of Metro stations and buses. Accessibility features like elevators, ramps, and audio-visual announcements are essential for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.
Metrobus routes also play a vital role. Numerous bus routes crisscross the 22214 area, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Routes like 38B, 23A, and 23B offer connections to hospitals and medical centers. The health score will evaluate the frequency, reliability, and coverage of these bus routes.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions:**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those who prefer door-to-door transportation. The health score will consider the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services in the 22214 area, as well as the typical wait times.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Brands like CareRide and MedRide specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized assistance. The health score will assess the availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
**Healthcare Access and Moving to Arlington:**
The Overall Health Score is critical for anyone considering moving to Arlington. The ease of access to healthcare is a significant factor in overall well-being. The score will provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.
The score will also consider the proximity of various healthcare facilities to residential areas. The presence of urgent care centers, pharmacies, and specialty clinics within the 22214 ZIP code will positively influence the score.
**Scoring Methodology and Final Assessment:**
The Overall Health Score will be calculated based on a weighted system, considering the following factors:
* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major healthcare facilities during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Frequency, reliability, and accessibility of Metro and bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Availability, cost, and wait times for ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Distance to primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers.
* **ADA Compliance:** Accessibility features of public transit and healthcare facilities.
The final score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest level of healthcare access. The score will be accompanied by a detailed analysis, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation options and providing recommendations for improving healthcare access in the 22214 ZIP code.
This analysis is designed to be a dynamic tool, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare. By providing a clear and concise assessment of healthcare access, the Overall Health Score empowers residents and prospective movers to make informed decisions and prioritize their health and well-being. The goal is to foster a healthier and more accessible community within the 22214 ZIP code.
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