23453, Virginia Beach, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23453, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.61 percent of residents in 23453 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 6.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23453

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP code 23453, nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Virginia Beach, the journey to medical attention is a multifaceted one, shaped by transportation options, distance, and the availability of specialized services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," considering the diverse factors influencing healthcare access for residents.

The score is not a single number but a holistic assessment, incorporating drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. We will examine the strengths and weaknesses of each mode, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Virginia Beach.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in 23453, as in much of Hampton Roads, is the personal vehicle. This region is a sprawling network of highways and roads, and the commute to healthcare often begins on these arteries. Residents in the northern reaches of 23453 may utilize **Princess Anne Road** to access Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, a critical healthcare hub. Drive times vary, but peak traffic can significantly extend travel durations.

Moving south, residents might rely on **Nimmo Parkway** and **Sandbridge Road** for access to urgent care facilities and primary care physicians. The speed of this journey is dependent on the time of day, with rush hour congestion often adding considerable minutes to the trip.

Further west, the **Virginia Beach Boulevard** corridor offers access to a wider array of medical facilities, including specialists and larger hospitals. However, this route is prone to heavy traffic, particularly near the intersection with **Independence Boulevard**. Navigating this area can be a challenge, especially for those experiencing a medical emergency.

The presence of **Interstate 264** provides a direct route to healthcare facilities further afield, such as those in Norfolk and Chesapeake. However, this option necessitates a longer commute, and the potential for traffic delays remains a concern.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offers public transportation options, but their impact on healthcare access in 23453 is somewhat limited. Several bus routes traverse the area, including routes numbered 20, 22, and 24, which offer connections to key medical facilities.

The availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and audio announcements, is crucial for ADA compliance. HRT strives to provide these amenities, but the frequency of service and the overall coverage area can pose challenges. The bus routes might not always directly serve every medical facility, and transfers could be necessary, adding to the overall travel time.

The reliability of public transit is another factor. Delays due to traffic, weather, or mechanical issues can be detrimental, especially when seeking timely medical attention. The convenience of public transit is also hampered by the limited operating hours, which may not align with the schedules of all healthcare providers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Complementary Solutions:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. They provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering door-to-door service and potentially reducing travel time. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response provide non-emergency and emergency medical transport, offering a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or use public transit. These services are often equipped with trained medical professionals and specialized equipment, ensuring patient safety and comfort.

The availability and accessibility of these services are vital, especially for elderly residents and individuals with disabilities. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive View:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 23453 is a nuanced assessment. The area offers a mix of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and primary care physicians. However, the ability to reach these facilities is influenced by several factors.

Drive times are variable and can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transit provides a viable option for some residents, but its coverage area and frequency of service are limited. Ride-share services and medical transport companies offer complementary solutions, but the cost can be a concern.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The density and variety of healthcare providers in and around 23453 play a significant role.
* **Transportation Infrastructure:** The quality and efficiency of the road network, as well as the availability and reliability of public transit, are crucial.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The affordability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the overall cost of owning and operating a vehicle are important considerations.
* **Accessibility for All:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options and the presence of medical transport services are critical for individuals with disabilities.
* **Healthcare Provider Availability:** The number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals in the area impacts the overall score.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for 23453, several initiatives could be implemented. Enhancing the efficiency of public transit, expanding the coverage area, and increasing the frequency of service would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing programs and offering financial assistance to those who need it could also improve access.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and optimizing traffic flow, could reduce drive times. Increasing the number of healthcare providers in the area, particularly in underserved areas, would also be a positive step.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 23453 reflects a complex interplay of transportation options, healthcare availability, and socioeconomic factors. While the area offers a range of healthcare facilities, the ability to reach them is not always straightforward. By addressing the challenges related to transportation and access, the community can improve the health and well-being of its residents, making Virginia Beach an even more attractive place to live and thrive. For those considering moving to Virginia Beach, understanding these transportation dynamics is vital.