23320, Chesapeake, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23320, Chesapeake, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.10 percent of residents in 23320 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chesapeake General Hospital with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23320 (Chesapeake, VA)

This report assesses the overall health score related to healthcare access within the 23320 ZIP code, located in Chesapeake, Virginia. It considers the critical factor of transportation, analyzing the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. The evaluation considers various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive view for individuals considering moving to Chesapeake or evaluating their current healthcare access.

The 23320 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Great Bridge and surrounding areas, presents a landscape where healthcare access is significantly shaped by transportation infrastructure. The primary arteries for vehicular movement are Interstate 64 (I-64) and the major thoroughfare, Battlefield Boulevard (Route 168). These roads, while offering relatively efficient travel, can experience congestion during peak hours, impacting travel times to healthcare facilities. Smaller roads, such as Cedar Road and Great Bridge Boulevard, provide crucial connections to local clinics and hospitals but are often subject to traffic fluctuations.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial determinant of the overall health score. Residents in 23320 have several options, but the distance and traffic conditions influence the ease of access. Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is generally accessible within a 10- to 20-minute drive, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. Other facilities, such as Sentara Greenbrier Medical Center, may require a 15- to 30-minute drive, potentially increasing during rush hour. Specialty clinics and urgent care centers are scattered throughout the region, offering varying drive times depending on their location.

Public transportation, provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offers an alternative to personal vehicles. Several bus routes serve the 23320 area, including routes 45, 46, and 47, providing connections to key destinations. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage of healthcare facilities can be limited. While HRT strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the reliance on bus schedules and potential transfer requirements can add considerable travel time, especially for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of public transportation, while present, is not always a readily available option for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, and the cost can be a barrier for some residents. The reliance on these services also depends on the driver availability in the area, which can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Specialized medical transportation services are available for individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedRide and Access Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. These services are particularly crucial for individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance with their medical appointments. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 23320 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the area benefits from proximity to major healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can impact drive times. Public transportation offers an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency, coverage, and potential transfer requirements can pose challenges. Ride-sharing services and specialized medical transportation provide additional options, but their availability and cost can be factors.

For individuals considering moving to Chesapeake, specifically to the 23320 ZIP code, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the routes and schedules to ensure they align with their healthcare needs. Individuals who depend on ride-sharing services should consider the potential costs and availability. Those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs should investigate the availability and accessibility of specialized medical transportation services.

Healthcare access is not solely determined by the presence of healthcare facilities; it is significantly influenced by the ability to reach those facilities. The 23320 ZIP code presents a mixed picture. While there are options for transportation, the efficiency and affordability of these options vary. The overall health score is therefore moderate, with the potential for improvement through enhanced public transportation, increased ride-sharing availability, and continued support for specialized medical transportation services.

The health score for the 23320 ZIP code can be improved by strategic investments in transportation infrastructure. Enhancing public transportation routes, increasing their frequency, and extending their coverage to include more healthcare facilities would significantly improve access for residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and providing subsidies for low-income individuals could also reduce transportation barriers. Furthermore, supporting the expansion of specialized medical transportation services would cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities and other specific requirements.

Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in 23320 is a dynamic measure, influenced by the changing landscape of transportation options and the evolving needs of the community. By considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and advocate for improvements that enhance the health and well-being of the community. The integration of transportation solutions is paramount for ensuring that all residents can reach the healthcare they need, when they need it.