23085, King And Queen Court House, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23085, King And Queen Court House, Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.22 percent of residents in 23085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vcu Health Tappahannock Hospital with a distance of 14.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23085

Considering a move to King and Queen Court House, Virginia, and specifically ZIP code 23085? This assessment provides a detailed overview of healthcare access within this rural community, focusing on transportation options and their impact on your overall health score. Evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial for informed decision-making, ensuring that healthcare access aligns with individual needs and lifestyle preferences.

The overall health score for 23085, concerning healthcare access, is significantly influenced by the limitations of its transportation infrastructure. This rural area, characterized by expansive farmlands and limited public transit, presents unique challenges for residents seeking medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potentially lengthy drive times, impacts the promptness and convenience of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving is the primary mode of transportation in 23085. The limited public transit options necessitate reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare facilities. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access. The primary roadways serving the area are Route 14 (Dutton Road), Route 360 (Richmond-Tappahannock Highway), and Route 14 (Newtown Road).

The closest major healthcare provider is Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center in Mechanicsville, approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves traveling on Route 360 and then onto I-295. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities might be found closer, but their scope of services may be limited.

Reaching larger hospitals in Richmond, such as VCU Health System, requires a drive of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, primarily via Route 360 and I-64. These longer drive times can be a significant barrier, especially during emergencies or for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further exacerbate these challenges, impacting the safety and reliability of transportation.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in 23085 are severely limited. The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) does not directly serve this area. Residents rely on informal arrangements, such as rides from friends or family, or the use of transportation services. The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or face financial constraints.

The lack of accessible public transportation is a significant disadvantage for individuals with disabilities. The absence of wheelchair-accessible buses or trains, and the lack of designated stops near medical facilities, further restricts healthcare access for this vulnerable population. The absence of reliable public transit can isolate individuals, reducing their ability to participate in preventative care and manage existing health conditions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Richmond area, but their presence in 23085 is inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand, which may be limited in this rural setting. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as Med-Ride and Firstat, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which may not be feasible during emergencies.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The limitations in transportation options significantly impact the overall health score for 23085. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potentially lengthy drive times to healthcare facilities, can delay access to care, particularly during emergencies. The absence of reliable public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those who cannot drive.

The lack of readily available transportation can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, which can negatively impact chronic disease management and preventative care. This can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. The need to rely on informal arrangements, such as rides from friends or family, can also place a burden on caregivers.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Individuals considering a move to 23085 should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. Those with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should consider the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

* **Assess personal transportation needs:** Evaluate the reliability of personal vehicles and the ability to drive long distances.
* **Explore medical transportation options:** Research the availability and cost of medical transportation services, such as Med-Ride and Firstat.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities:** Determine the distance to the nearest hospitals, clinics, and urgent care facilities.
* **Plan for emergencies:** Develop a plan for accessing medical care during emergencies, including identifying backup transportation options.
* **Investigate telehealth opportunities:** Explore the availability of telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits.

The overall health score for 23085, in terms of healthcare access, is moderate. While residents can access healthcare facilities, the limitations in transportation options pose significant challenges. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial for ensuring that healthcare access aligns with lifestyle and health requirements. Further development of transportation infrastructure, including increased public transit options and improved ride-sharing services, would significantly enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health score for residents of this community. The availability of reliable transportation is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access and is critical for promoting the health and well-being of the residents of King and Queen Court House.