23417, Onancock, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23417, Onancock, Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.02 percent of residents in 23417 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23417

The pursuit of optimal health necessitates more than just access to medical professionals; it demands readily available and efficient transportation to and from healthcare facilities. This report analyzes the commute to healthcare options within and surrounding ZIP Code 23417, Onancock, Virginia, assessing the overall health score based on transportation accessibility. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, prospective movers considering relocating to Onancock, and healthcare providers aiming to serve the community effectively.

ZIP Code 23417, nestled on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. The area's rural nature influences transportation infrastructure, impacting the ease and speed with which residents can reach essential medical services. The health score reflects the interplay of drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from 23417 are Route 13, the Eastern Shore's main thoroughfare, and various local roads. The drive to the nearest hospital, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onley, VA, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code. This drive is generally straightforward, utilizing Route 13 south.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. A trip to Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Maryland, a regional hub for advanced medical services, involves a drive of approximately one hour, primarily via Route 13 north. This longer commute can significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for those requiring frequent appointments or facing medical emergencies. The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes or areas prone to flooding, can also influence drive times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Lifeline**

Public transportation options within 23417 are limited but play a crucial role for those without personal vehicles. The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) provides demand-response transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while essential, often requires advance booking and may have limited operating hours, potentially affecting healthcare access, especially for urgent needs.

The availability of accessible public transit is a key factor in the health score. The ESAAA vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the infrequent service and the need for pre-booking can pose challenges. The absence of a fixed-route public transportation system directly serving healthcare facilities further reduces the health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. This variability impacts the health score, as residents cannot always rely on these services for timely transportation to appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical factors in determining the overall health score.

**Medical Transport Brands**

* **Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital EMS:** Provides emergency medical services.
* **Ambulance Services:** Private ambulance companies that offer emergency and non-emergency transport.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Providers:** Companies that offer transportation for medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare needs.
* **Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA):** Provides transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

**Health Score Assessment: A Multifaceted View**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 23417 is moderately impacted by the transportation challenges. While the proximity to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital offers a positive aspect, the longer travel times to specialized medical facilities and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services negatively influence the score. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential cost of medical transport services further complicate the situation.

For those considering moving to Onancock, the transportation landscape should be carefully considered. Individuals who are reliant on public transit or have limited mobility should thoroughly investigate the availability and reliability of transportation services before relocating.

**Recommendations: Improving Healthcare Access**

Several strategies could enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health score in 23417. Expanding public transit options, including fixed routes that directly serve healthcare facilities, would significantly improve accessibility. Promoting ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with local transportation providers could also increase options.

Furthermore, educating residents about available transportation resources, including ESAAA services and NEMT providers, is crucial. Addressing the affordability of medical transport services through financial assistance programs or partnerships with healthcare providers could remove a significant barrier to care. Improving road infrastructure and addressing potential hazards would also contribute to safer and more efficient commutes.

**Conclusion: Striving for Enhanced Healthcare Accessibility**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 23417 reflects the interplay of transportation infrastructure, service availability, and affordability. While the community benefits from the presence of a local hospital, challenges remain in ensuring timely and accessible transportation to a full range of medical services. By addressing the identified limitations and implementing the recommended strategies, the community can improve healthcare access, ultimately enhancing the overall health and well-being of its residents. This focus on improving healthcare access can significantly improve the quality of life for those moving to Onancock, Virginia.