23301, Accomac, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23301, Accomac, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.03 percent of residents in 23301 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23301

This report analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 23301, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. Understanding the ease of reaching medical facilities is crucial for residents, particularly those considering moving to Accomac or requiring regular medical attention. The analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

The geographical layout of Accomac, Virginia, significantly influences healthcare access. This rural area, characterized by its agricultural landscape, presents unique transportation challenges. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, making drive times a critical factor in accessing medical care. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may have restricted availability. The 'Overall Health Score' will reflect these realities, highlighting potential barriers and opportunities for improving healthcare access.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary roads serving 23301 are US-13, a major north-south artery, and VA-175, which provides access to the Eastern Shore. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location within the zip code and the destination.

Residents in the northern portion of 23301, closer to the town of Onancock, generally have shorter drive times to facilities like Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital. This journey might take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on US-13 and VA-175.

Those residing in the southern areas, closer to Accomac, might face longer commutes. Reaching the same hospital could extend to 20-25 minutes, particularly during peak traffic hours. The absence of significant alternative routes makes these commute times susceptible to delays.

For specialized care located outside the immediate vicinity, such as those in Salisbury, Maryland, the drive times increase considerably. This journey, primarily via US-13, can easily exceed an hour, potentially impacting healthcare access for urgent or specialized needs.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options within 23301 are limited. The Eastern Shore Area Transit (ESAT) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are restricted. ESAT’s routes, while offering a crucial lifeline for some residents, are not designed to cater to the diverse healthcare needs of the community.

ESAT’s routes are likely to have limited service to medical facilities. Schedules should be checked in advance. ADA accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. ESAT vehicles are equipped with ADA features, but the availability of accessible routes and stops may vary.

The lack of extensive public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This limitation disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, potentially exacerbating health disparities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the Accomac area, but their availability is not guaranteed. Demand fluctuates, and wait times can be lengthy, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This unreliability can create significant challenges for scheduled medical appointments or urgent care needs.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a dedicated solution for individuals requiring assistance. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents.

Medicaid and other insurance programs may cover medical transportation costs for eligible individuals. Residents should explore these options to alleviate the financial burden of accessing healthcare. The availability and coverage of medical transport services are essential considerations when assessing the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for 23301 reflects the complex interplay of these transportation factors. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport.

The score is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services. The rural nature of the area and the distances to specialized medical care further contribute to a lower score.

The score is positively influenced by the presence of medical transport services and the potential for insurance coverage. The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities is also a positive factor.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in 23301 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing service frequency could significantly benefit residents. This includes more frequent ESAT service, with routes designed to specifically serve medical facilities.

Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with local providers could enhance transportation options. Subsidizing medical transport services for low-income individuals could also improve healthcare access.

Promoting telehealth services can also help bridge the gap, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. This is especially important for residents with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

This analysis demonstrates that transportation limitations pose a significant challenge to healthcare access in 23301. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and services is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of Accomac residents. The 'Overall Health Score' for 23301 reflects the need for continued efforts to enhance healthcare access and ensure that all residents can receive the care they need.