23314, Carrollton, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23314, Carrollton, Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.55 percent of residents in 23314 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Regional Medical Center with a distance of 9.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Carrollton, Virginia (ZIP Code 23314)

This comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility for residents of Carrollton, Virginia (ZIP Code 23314) provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This analysis considers various modes of transport, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to paint a clear picture of healthcare access. Ultimately, this information is crucial for those considering moving to Carrollton, ensuring they can readily access the medical care they need.

The "Overall Health Score" reflects the accessibility of healthcare services within and around the 23314 ZIP code. It considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of alternative transportation methods. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges. Factors such as proximity to hospitals, clinics, and specialists, along with the efficiency and reliability of available transportation, heavily influence the score.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For residents of Carrollton, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is often the personal vehicle. The area is well-served by major roadways, but drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

Access to healthcare facilities in the region is primarily facilitated by the network of highways and roads. The primary arteries include US-17, also known as Carrollton Boulevard, which serves as a major thoroughfare connecting Carrollton to Smithfield and beyond. This route offers direct access to some medical offices and clinics.

Interstate 664 (I-664), a crucial component of the Hampton Roads Beltway, provides access to a wider array of healthcare options in neighboring cities. This highway is essential for reaching hospitals and specialist practices in Suffolk and Newport News. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially increasing the stress and inconvenience of seeking medical care.

Smaller roads, such as Brewers Neck Boulevard and Smithfield Boulevard, provide access to local medical facilities and offer alternative routes to avoid traffic on the major highways. However, these roads can be prone to congestion during school hours and rush hour. Residents should factor in travel time, especially during peak traffic periods, when planning appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within the 23314 ZIP code are limited, which can pose a challenge for those without personal vehicles or those who prefer not to drive. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system provides some bus service, but the routes and frequency may not adequately serve all areas of Carrollton, particularly those further from the main roads.

HRT Route 40, for example, offers service along US-17, providing a potential link to healthcare facilities located along that corridor. However, the frequency of this route may not be sufficient for all needs, and the travel time can be considerably longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, is crucial for individuals with disabilities. HRT generally complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, but it is essential to confirm the accessibility of specific routes and buses before relying on them.

The lack of extensive public transit options necessitates careful planning for those who depend on buses for healthcare access. Residents may need to factor in longer travel times, potential transfers, and the availability of accessible features when scheduling appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for residents of Carrollton. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare facilities, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and the time of day.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and Firstat, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. They typically offer door-to-door service and can be a valuable resource for those who need extra support. However, these services may require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Carrollton (23314) is moderate. While the area is served by major roadways, which offer relatively easy access to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional avenues for accessing healthcare, but these services may not be accessible or affordable for all residents. The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of various transportation factors when seeking medical care.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance healthcare access for residents of Carrollton, several measures could be considered. Expanding public transit routes and increasing the frequency of service, particularly along US-17 and other key corridors, would provide more accessible and affordable transportation options.

Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and medical transport options through community outreach programs could also improve healthcare access. Furthermore, initiatives to improve traffic flow on major roadways, such as I-664, would reduce travel times and make it easier for residents to reach medical facilities.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Carrollton, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. While the area offers convenient access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the limited public transit options and potential for traffic congestion should be carefully considered.

By evaluating the available transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, prospective residents can make an informed decision about their healthcare access needs. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare in Carrollton, ensuring that residents can readily access the medical care they require. This information empowers potential residents to make informed decisions, aligning their lifestyle with their healthcare needs.