22946, Keene, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 22946, Keene, Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.66 percent of residents in 22946 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Virginia Medical Center with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 22946

Nestled in the heart of rural Virginia, the ZIP code 22946, encompassing the charming town of Keene, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when considering overall health. A critical component of this assessment lies in the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This 'Overall Health Score' delves into the intricacies of transportation, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial factors determining healthcare access for those considering moving to Keene.

The primary mode of transportation for most Keene residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The geography of the area necessitates this, with sprawling landscapes and limited public transit infrastructure. Drive times to healthcare facilities become a significant consideration, particularly for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments. The major thoroughfare, Route 29, serves as the lifeline connecting Keene to larger population centers like Charlottesville, where a concentration of healthcare providers resides.

Driving to Charlottesville, approximately 20 miles north, can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This time frame accounts for the journey along Route 29, a busy highway that experiences congestion during peak hours. The speed limit varies, impacting travel time, and the road's winding nature adds to the overall duration. Another route option involves taking Route 20, a less congested but also slower, more scenic alternative, which can add an additional 10-15 minutes to the commute.

Beyond Charlottesville, residents might need to travel further afield for specialized care. Richmond, roughly 70 miles east, is home to major medical centers. The journey involves navigating Route 64, a major interstate, which can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for urgent medical needs.

Public transportation options in Keene are limited. The local transit system, JAUNT (Jefferson Area United Transportation), offers bus services, but these are primarily designed for intra-county travel and may not directly connect Keene to major healthcare facilities. JAUNT's routes are subject to change, but generally, they operate on a fixed-route schedule with limited frequency. ADA accessibility is a priority for JAUNT, with all buses equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the sparse frequency and limited route coverage may render public transit an impractical option for many seeking healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability fluctuate. Rural areas often experience longer wait times and higher fares compared to urban centers. The affordability of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for those with limited financial resources. The cost of repeated rides to medical appointments can quickly become a significant financial burden.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves or utilize public transit. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and LifeCare Medical Transports offer ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services. These services are vital for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transport to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might be limited, particularly in remote areas.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 22946 reveals a mixed picture. While Keene residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges. Drive times, particularly to specialized care centers, can be lengthy, impacting the timeliness of medical attention. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the landscape.

For individuals considering moving to Keene, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and carefully consider the feasibility of accessing medical services based on their mobility and financial resources. The proximity to Charlottesville provides a degree of healthcare access, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning.

The future of healthcare access in 22946 could be improved through strategic investments in public transportation. Expanding JAUNT's routes and increasing service frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles. Furthermore, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could alleviate financial burdens. Investing in telehealth infrastructure, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also mitigate the challenges posed by long travel times.

In conclusion, while Keene offers a tranquil and appealing environment, the transportation limitations impacting healthcare access warrant careful consideration. The overall health score reflects the need for proactive measures to improve healthcare access, ensuring that all residents can receive timely and affordable medical care. This is crucial for a healthy community and a thriving future for Keene.