22939, Fishersville, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 22939, Fishersville, Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.29 percent of residents in 22939 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Augusta Health with a distance of 0.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fishersville (ZIP Code 22939)

The allure of a new home in Fishersville, Virginia (ZIP Code 22939), often centers on idyllic landscapes and a slower pace of life. However, a critical aspect of settling in, especially for those prioritizing wellness, is understanding the landscape of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the transportation infrastructure and its impact on reaching medical facilities, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Fishersville.

The score considers the availability and efficiency of various transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. It also assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of ADA-compliant features. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this specific ZIP code.

**The Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Given the rural nature of the area, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in 22939 leans towards the moderate range. While the region offers adequate healthcare facilities, transportation limitations, particularly for those without personal vehicles, pose a significant challenge. The score is influenced by drive times, limited public transit options, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions. This assessment is a starting point, and individual circumstances, such as mobility limitations or reliance on specific medical specialists, will significantly impact the overall experience.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For residents of Fishersville, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is the personal vehicle. The most direct routes to larger hospitals and specialized clinics involve navigating the major thoroughfares. The primary artery for travel is Interstate 64 (I-64), which offers relatively quick access to facilities in nearby cities like Waynesboro and Charlottesville.

From Fishersville, a trip east on I-64 provides access to Augusta Health in Fishersville, a full-service hospital. The drive time is typically under 10 minutes, making it a convenient option for residents. Heading west on I-64 leads to facilities in Staunton, Virginia, including the King's Daughters' Hospital. The drive to Staunton usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternative routes utilize secondary roads, such as US Route 11 (also known as Lee Highway) and US Route 250. These routes offer scenic drives but can be slower, particularly during peak hours. US Route 11 runs parallel to I-81 and offers access to local medical offices and clinics. US Route 250 is a key east-west thoroughfare, connecting Fishersville to Charlottesville, where a wider array of medical specialists and facilities, including the University of Virginia Medical Center, are available. The drive to Charlottesville can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 22939 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The primary public transit provider in the area is the Valley Ride. The Valley Ride operates a network of bus routes, but service frequency and coverage in Fishersville are limited, primarily focusing on connecting to Waynesboro and Staunton.

Specific route numbers and schedules are subject to change, so it's crucial to consult the Valley Ride website for the most up-to-date information. Accessibility is a key consideration. The Valley Ride strives to offer ADA-compliant features on its buses, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service mean that relying solely on public transit for healthcare appointments can be time-consuming and potentially unreliable.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, availability can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Residents should plan ahead and book rides in advance to ensure timely transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transportation providers, are another option, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health score. As mentioned earlier, Augusta Health in Fishersville is a significant asset, offering a wide range of medical services and specialties. The hospital's location provides convenient access for residents of 22939.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to facilities in Staunton or Charlottesville. The University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including specialized treatments and research programs. The drive to Charlottesville, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

**Accessibility Considerations**

Accessibility is a critical factor for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. Healthcare facilities in the area generally adhere to ADA guidelines, ensuring that buildings and services are accessible to all patients. However, transportation accessibility remains a significant challenge. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Moving to Fishersville: A Transportation Perspective**

For those considering moving to Fishersville, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of having a reliable mode of transportation. Prospective residents should factor in drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential need for ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive should carefully assess the feasibility of accessing healthcare using available transportation options. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services, the frequency of public transit routes, and the cost of medical transport is crucial.

**Overall Health Score: Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in 22939 reflects a moderate level of accessibility. The area benefits from the presence of Augusta Health, offering convenient access to a wide range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

For those considering moving to Fishersville, a thorough assessment of individual transportation needs and preferences is crucial. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities, exploring alternative transportation options, and planning for potential travel times are essential steps in ensuring access to quality healthcare. This assessment underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when evaluating the overall health and well-being of a community.