22406, Fredericksburg, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 22406, Fredericksburg, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.53 percent of residents in 22406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Washington Hospital with a distance of 6.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 22406

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is paramount when considering a move, especially within a new community. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 22406, Fredericksburg, Virginia, focusing on the ease of commuting to medical facilities. This assessment considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility.

The 22406 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Fredericksburg, a city experiencing notable population growth. This growth, coupled with the region's geographical layout, significantly impacts healthcare access. Evaluating the available transportation infrastructure is crucial to understanding the community's health profile. This evaluation aims to provide insights for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike, influencing decisions related to healthcare choices and overall well-being.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in this area is the personal vehicle. The ease of access to healthcare facilities is significantly influenced by drive times, which can vary considerably depending on traffic conditions. Residents rely heavily on major thoroughfares such as Interstate 95 (I-95), a major artery for regional travel.

Accessing healthcare facilities from 22406 often involves navigating I-95, particularly when traveling north or south. The route can be congested during peak hours, especially around the Spotsylvania County line. The Rappahannock River, a natural barrier, further influences traffic flow, concentrating movement on bridges and limiting alternative routes.

Secondary roads, including Route 1 (also known as Jefferson Davis Highway) and Route 3 (Plank Road), offer alternative routes, but they too can experience congestion. Route 1, running parallel to I-95, provides access to various medical offices and clinics. Route 3 serves as a major east-west corridor, connecting residential areas with healthcare providers.

Drive times to major healthcare providers, such as Mary Washington Hospital, vary. During off-peak hours, the drive may take 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this can extend to 20-30 minutes or longer, impacting the speed of accessing medical care. This variability is a critical factor in the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FRED) provides public transportation services within the city and surrounding areas. While FRED offers a network of routes, their impact on healthcare access in 22406 is nuanced. The frequency of service and the coverage area are critical factors.

Several FRED routes serve the 22406 area, including routes that connect to medical facilities. However, the routes might not be as comprehensive or frequent as desired. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a significant positive, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

For example, a resident might need to transfer between routes to reach a specific medical center. The longer travel times and potential for multiple transfers can be a deterrent. Public transit is often less convenient than driving, especially for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

The overall impact of FRED on the health score is moderate. While it offers a viable alternative for some, its limitations in terms of frequency, coverage, and travel time reduce its overall influence on healthcare access. Improvements in route frequency and coverage could significantly enhance the health score for residents who rely on public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fredericksburg area. These services provide an on-demand transportation option, offering a degree of flexibility. They are particularly useful for individuals without personal vehicles or those who prefer not to drive.

Ride-sharing can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those needing quick transportation to appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The availability of ride-sharing services can also fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by private companies, offer specialized transport for patients with specific needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance during transport.

The availability and cost of medical transport services can vary. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. However, they provide a vital service for individuals who cannot use other transportation options. The presence of these services positively impacts the health score, particularly for those with disabilities or complex medical needs.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in 22406 is moderately positive. While the area offers several transportation options, each has limitations that impact the ease of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on I-95 and other major roads are significant challenges.

Public transit, while available, has limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability can be barriers. The geographical layout of Fredericksburg, with the Rappahannock River acting as a natural barrier, further complicates transportation.

The health score is also influenced by the location of healthcare facilities. The proximity of major hospitals and clinics to the 22406 area is a positive factor. However, the distribution of medical offices and specialists throughout the region can necessitate longer travel times for some residents.

When considering moving to Fredericksburg, specifically to the 22406 ZIP code, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Assessing the accessibility of medical facilities based on their individual circumstances is crucial.

Improvements in public transit, such as increased frequency and expanded coverage, could significantly enhance the health score. Addressing traffic congestion on major roads would also improve healthcare access. Further, exploring initiatives to promote affordable ride-sharing options could benefit residents.

In conclusion, while 22406 offers reasonable healthcare access, the overall health score is affected by transportation challenges. Residents should be aware of these factors and plan accordingly to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. The continuous evolution of transportation infrastructure and healthcare services will undoubtedly impact the health score in the future.