23389, Harborton, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23389, Harborton, Virginia is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 23389 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23389 (Harborton, VA)

Embarking on a journey to understand the overall health score for residents of Harborton, Virginia (ZIP Code 23389), necessitates a deep dive into the intricate relationship between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This analysis will explore the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking medical care, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport. For those contemplating **moving to Harborton**, this assessment offers a critical perspective on a vital aspect of community well-being.

Harborton, a charming locale nestled in the embrace of the Eastern Shore, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to accessing healthcare. The geographical layout, characterized by a blend of rural landscapes and coastal proximity, significantly influences the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This score will illuminate the existing infrastructure, highlighting potential barriers and suggesting possible improvements to enhance the overall health score for the community.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary method of traversing the landscape for medical appointments is, undoubtedly, by personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of understanding drive times to key healthcare providers. The primary arteries for navigating Harborton are Route 13, the major north-south thoroughfare, and various local roads that weave through the area.

The nearest hospitals, offering a comprehensive range of services, are located in the neighboring towns of Onancock and Nassawadox. Driving to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onancock, a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes, is a relatively manageable undertaking for most residents. The route predominantly utilizes Route 13, ensuring a fairly direct and well-maintained path.

Further south, Riverside Eastern Shore Hospital in Nassawadox, is about a 30-40 minute drive. This trip, again primarily via Route 13, can be affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours. For those requiring specialized care or advanced medical interventions, the drive to larger hospitals in Norfolk or Virginia Beach, roughly a two-hour trek, becomes a significant consideration.

The time spent traveling can be a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. Longer drive times can translate to delayed care, particularly in emergencies. This can be a significant concern for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring regular medical attention.

**Public Transit Perspectives:**

Public transportation options in Harborton and the surrounding areas are limited. This absence of robust public transit poses a considerable challenge for those who do not own a vehicle, including elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) offers a demand-response transportation service, providing rides for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while valuable, requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The availability of this service is also limited.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system underscores the need for alternative solutions to ensure healthcare access. The local government and community organizations could explore opportunities to expand existing services or implement new initiatives to address this critical need.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may have limited availability, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This can create accessibility challenges for individuals who rely on these services for transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of medical transport can be a barrier for some individuals.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial considerations in evaluating the overall health score. These services can bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation.

**ADA Compliance and Accessibility:**

Ensuring that public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options are fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is paramount. This includes providing accessible vehicles, trained drivers, and readily available assistance for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of accessible transportation options is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access. It allows individuals with disabilities to maintain their independence and receive the medical care they need.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 23389 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Drive times, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing options, and the accessibility of medical transport services all contribute to the overall picture.

The relatively short drive times to local hospitals, coupled with the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, offer some advantages. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for long drives to specialized medical facilities present challenges.

The overall health score can be improved by expanding public transit options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring that all transportation services are fully ADA compliant. Investing in these areas will enhance healthcare access for all residents of Harborton.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 23389, several key recommendations are suggested. These include:

* **Advocating for increased public transit:** Working with local and regional authorities to expand existing services or implement new public transit routes.
* **Partnering with ride-sharing services:** Collaborating with ride-sharing companies to improve availability and affordability in the area.
* **Supporting medical transport providers:** Providing financial assistance or other incentives to medical transport services to ensure they remain accessible to all residents.
* **Promoting ADA compliance:** Ensuring that all transportation services are fully ADA compliant and accessible to individuals with disabilities.
* **Community education:** Educating residents about available transportation options and resources.

By implementing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve the overall health score, making healthcare more accessible and equitable for all residents of Harborton. This, in turn, will contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community, enhancing the quality of life for those considering **moving to Harborton**.