22947, Keswick, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 22947, Keswick, Virginia is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.74 percent of residents in 22947 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital with a distance of 5.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Keswick, Virginia (ZIP Code 22947)

Assessing the overall health of a community necessitates a deep dive into its infrastructure, particularly its accessibility to essential services. For residents of Keswick, Virginia (ZIP Code 22947), this analysis focuses on the critical element of healthcare access, meticulously examining transportation options and their impact on residents' well-being. This write-up provides an 'Overall Health Score' based on the available transportation modalities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the healthcare landscape for individuals considering moving to Keswick.

Keswick, a charming locale nestled in Albemarle County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The community's relative remoteness, while contributing to its tranquility, also influences the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. Understanding these complexities is crucial for evaluating the community's overall health score.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Keswick is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the time and distance required to reach various medical facilities. The primary arteries serving Keswick are Interstate 64 (I-64) and US Route 250. I-64 offers relatively swift access to Charlottesville, the primary hub for healthcare services in the region. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially increasing stress and delaying critical care.

The drive to the University of Virginia (UVA) Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions via I-64 East. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or more, posing a considerable challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention. Other healthcare facilities, such as Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, are also accessible via I-64 and US Route 250, with drive times varying depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

US Route 250 provides an alternative route, though it is generally slower due to its two-lane configuration and the presence of several traffic lights. This route is particularly useful for accessing facilities located closer to the city's outskirts. Residents should consider the impact of weather conditions, such as snow or ice, which can significantly affect drive times and the safety of travel, particularly on secondary roads.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Keswick are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) system, while providing some service in the broader Charlottesville area, has limited routes that extend into Keswick. Route 7, for instance, offers service along US Route 250, but its frequency is limited, and the route may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The lack of comprehensive public transit infrastructure presents a significant challenge for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise unable to drive. The accessibility of existing routes is also a concern, with the availability of ADA-compliant features (such as ramps and lifts) varying across the fleet. Those relying on public transit must carefully plan their trips, accounting for potential delays and limited operating hours. This constraint on transportation options can significantly impact the overall health score for this demographic.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option for accessing healthcare. These services are generally available in the Keswick area, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips or longer distances.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, provide a crucial lifeline for some residents. Companies like Med-Ride and Firstat Nursing Services offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with transfers or have specific medical needs during transport. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options.

**Healthcare Access and the 'Overall Health Score':**

Considering the available transportation options, the 'Overall Health Score' for accessing healthcare in Keswick, Virginia (ZIP Code 22947) is moderately impacted by transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, is subject to traffic congestion and weather-related delays. Public transit, while present, is limited in scope and frequency. Ride-sharing services provide an alternative, but availability and cost are factors to consider. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but come with associated costs and booking requirements.

The score is further influenced by the distance to major healthcare facilities and the potential for delays during peak travel times. Residents must carefully plan their trips, accounting for potential traffic and weather conditions. The availability of healthcare services within the Keswick area is limited, necessitating travel to Charlottesville for most medical needs.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach medical facilities, particularly during peak hours, significantly impacts the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The limited scope and frequency of public transit routes pose a barrier for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services influence the overall score.
* **Accessibility:** The ease with which individuals can access and utilize available transportation options is crucial.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to and availability of various healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals considering moving to Keswick, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access, particularly regarding transportation, must be carefully considered. The 'Overall Health Score' for Keswick reflects a need for improved public transit options, a more robust ride-sharing network, and readily accessible medical transport services. Addressing these issues would significantly enhance the community's overall health and well-being, making Keswick a more accessible and healthier place to live.