22580, Woodford, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 22580, Woodford, Virginia is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.90 percent of residents in 22580 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 22580 (Woodford, VA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Woodford, Virginia (ZIP Code 22580) necessitates a deep dive into their ability to access healthcare. A crucial element of this access is transportation, the lifeblood connecting individuals to essential medical services. This analysis considers the available transportation options, their efficiency, and their accessibility, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape for potential and current residents. It is a key consideration for anyone **moving to Woodford**.

The primary mode of transportation in this rural area is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on cars to navigate the region, making the efficiency of roadways a critical factor. The major thoroughfare is Route 33, a vital east-west artery connecting Woodford to neighboring towns and cities. Travel times on Route 33, while generally manageable, can fluctuate depending on traffic, especially during peak hours. Congestion may be experienced near intersections and during school drop-off and pick-up times.

To the south, Route 17 offers another route, providing access to Fredericksburg and the broader I-95 corridor. However, this route is further from Woodford, and the potential for delays increases significantly due to traffic volume. The journey to healthcare facilities in Fredericksburg, while offering a wider range of options, could be a considerable commute, especially for those requiring urgent care.

For those seeking healthcare to the north, Route 17 again becomes relevant, leading towards Tappahannock and other towns with medical facilities. The travel time to these locations is generally less than to Fredericksburg, but the availability of specialized services may be limited. Local roads, such as Jericho Road and Newtown Road, serve as connectors, but they are typically narrow and less maintained, potentially adding to travel times and safety concerns.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 22580 are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of bus routes or other forms of public transport necessitates reliance on other, less reliable, methods.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers a potential alternative, but their presence in rural areas like Woodford is often inconsistent. Drivers may be scarce, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant deterrent, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This is a crucial consideration when evaluating the overall **transportation** landscape.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) may operate in the area, offering transportation for appointments and other medical needs. These services, however, often require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice requests. The cost of NEMT can also be substantial, potentially placing a financial burden on patients.

Furthermore, the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves must be considered. While most modern medical facilities are designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments, the distance to these facilities and the available transportation options remain critical factors. The lack of ADA-compliant public transportation options further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

The distance to the nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers is a crucial determinant of the overall health score. The closest major hospital is Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, requiring a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes via Route 17 or Route 3. This travel time can be a significant factor in emergency situations, potentially impacting patient outcomes.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities may be available in neighboring towns, such as Tappahannock, offering more immediate care for less serious conditions. However, the range of services and the availability of specialists may be limited compared to larger hospitals. The convenience of these facilities must be weighed against the potential need for more specialized care requiring longer travel times.

The availability of pharmacies and other essential healthcare resources within Woodford itself is also a factor. Access to medications and other medical supplies is critical for managing chronic conditions and maintaining overall health. The presence of local pharmacies and the ease of access to these resources contribute positively to the overall health score.

The cost of healthcare and transportation is another crucial consideration. The financial burden of medical expenses, coupled with the cost of transportation, can create a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly for low-income individuals. The availability of financial assistance programs and the affordability of transportation options are essential factors in assessing the overall health score.

The demographics of the population in ZIP Code 22580 also play a role. The age distribution, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents all influence their healthcare needs and their ability to access care. An aging population, for example, may require more frequent medical appointments and specialized care, increasing the importance of accessible and efficient transportation options.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Woodford, Virginia (ZIP Code 22580) is significantly impacted by the challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential for long travel times to medical facilities, and the cost of transportation all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare landscape. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer potential alternatives, their availability and affordability may be limited. For those **moving to Woodford**, a thorough understanding of these challenges is essential. Improving the overall health score requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring the expansion of public transportation, encouraging ride-sharing services, and supporting initiatives that improve access to healthcare services for all residents.