23130, Onemo, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23130, Onemo, Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.33 percent of residents in 23130 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Walter Reed Hospital with a distance of 14.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23130

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP code 23130, a rural enclave nestled in the heart of Virginia, the journey to medical care presents a multifaceted challenge. This analysis provides an overall health score, considering the complexities of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the realities faced by residents seeking medical attention. This assessment is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Onemo, a community within this ZIP code, offering a critical understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The overall health score for 23130 is **Moderate**, reflecting a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the area boasts some healthcare facilities, the geographic dispersion and limited transportation options contribute to significant barriers for many residents. This score considers factors like distance to primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services, coupled with the availability and efficiency of various transportation modes. It also factors in the socioeconomic profile of the area, as transportation costs can disproportionately affect lower-income individuals, further hindering healthcare access.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents in 23130. The area is served by a network of roads, including Virginia State Route 3 (also known as Kings Highway), Virginia State Route 17 (also known as George Washington Memorial Highway), and various local roads. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the origin point within the ZIP code. For instance, a trip to the nearest primary care physician might take 15-20 minutes for residents in Onemo, traveling primarily on Route 3. However, accessing a specialist or the nearest hospital, such as Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester, could easily extend the commute to 30-45 minutes, especially during peak traffic hours.

The condition of the roads also plays a crucial role. While Route 17 is generally well-maintained, some local roads may be less so, especially after inclement weather. This can impact travel times and increase the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the absence of sidewalks and bike lanes in many areas makes it challenging for those who prefer or need to walk or cycle to access healthcare, further reinforcing the dependence on personal vehicles.

Public transportation options in 23130 are severely limited. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Middle Peninsula Regional Planning District Commission (MPRPDC), which offers a demand-response system. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance. While the service is available, its coverage is sparse, and the wait times can be lengthy. The lack of fixed-route bus services and the limited operating hours significantly restrict the ability of residents to access healthcare, especially those with mobility limitations or without access to a personal vehicle.

The MPRPDC vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and the requirement for advance booking can still pose challenges for those needing immediate medical attention or regular appointments. The lack of readily available public transportation is a significant factor contributing to the moderate overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 23130, but their presence is inconsistent and often limited. The availability of drivers can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the demand. Residents in more remote areas of the ZIP code may experience longer wait times or even find it difficult to secure a ride at all. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available in 23130, primarily for non-emergency medical transportation. These services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, offer transportation for individuals who are unable to drive themselves but do not require emergency medical assistance. However, these services often require pre-booking and may not be readily available for last-minute appointments. The cost of medical transport can be significant, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 23130 itself is limited. While there may be a few primary care physicians and some specialized clinics, residents often need to travel outside the ZIP code to access a full range of medical services, including hospitals, specialists, and advanced diagnostic imaging. This further underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

For those considering moving to Onemo, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The distance to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services should be carefully considered. The overall health score reflects the reality that healthcare access in 23130 requires careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics.

The socioeconomic profile of 23130 also impacts healthcare access. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can be a significant burden for lower-income residents. This can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, ultimately affecting their health outcomes. Addressing this disparity requires a multi-pronged approach, including exploring options for subsidized transportation or providing financial assistance for healthcare-related travel.

The health of a community is not solely determined by the availability of medical facilities; it is also shaped by the ease with which residents can access those facilities. In 23130, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. While the area faces limitations in public transit and ride-sharing availability, the community could benefit from initiatives to improve transportation infrastructure, expand public transit options, and provide financial assistance for healthcare-related travel. Addressing these challenges is crucial to improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The journey to healthcare in 23130 requires careful navigation, making transportation a critical determinant of health outcomes.