23456, Virginia Beach, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23456, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.09 percent of residents in 23456 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 Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 7.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23456

Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Virginia Beach, ZIP Code 23456 presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning access to healthcare. This analysis, focusing on the critical component of transportation, aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" by dissecting the intricacies of commuting to medical facilities. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents, potential movers, and policymakers alike, as they directly impact the well-being and quality of life within this coastal community.

The "Overall Health Score" for 23456, concerning healthcare access, is a composite measure. It considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Each element is weighted based on its impact on accessibility, reliability, and affordability. The ultimate score reflects the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care, factoring in the practical realities of daily life.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The dominant mode of transportation in 23456 is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents its own set of challenges. Primary arteries like **Interstate 264 (I-264)**, the major east-west thoroughfare, and **Virginia Beach Boulevard**, a bustling commercial corridor, often experience significant congestion, especially during peak hours.

Travel times to major hospitals, such as Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, fluctuate considerably. During off-peak hours, a drive to either facility might take 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, the same journey can easily extend to 30-45 minutes or longer, particularly if navigating the often-congested ramps connecting I-264 to other major roads.

Smaller, more localized medical practices and urgent care centers, scattered throughout the ZIP code and surrounding areas, offer shorter drive times. However, the trade-off often lies in the scope of services available. This necessitates careful consideration of individual healthcare needs and the accessibility of specialized care.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transportation, provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of limitations. Several bus routes traverse 23456, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. **Route 20** and **Route 22**, for instance, provide access to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital. **Route 19** and **Route 20** serve Sentara Princess Anne Hospital.

The frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Waiting times between buses can be lengthy, potentially adding considerable time to the overall commute. Furthermore, the routes may not always directly serve the specific medical facility a resident needs, requiring transfers and further travel time.

HRT strives to provide accessible transportation. All buses are equipped with features compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including ramps and priority seating. However, the availability of paratransit services, which provide door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities, is crucial. Riders should contact HRT directly to determine eligibility and schedule rides.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, option. Availability in 23456 is generally good, and wait times are usually reasonable. The cost, however, can be a deterrent, particularly for frequent medical appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transport, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are typically reserved for individuals who cannot safely or independently use public transportation or ride-sharing.

The cost of these services can vary, and insurance coverage may vary depending on the service and the individual's plan. It is essential to research and understand the available options and their associated costs before relying on these services.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for 23456, concerning healthcare access, is moderately positive. The presence of multiple transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing, provides a degree of flexibility. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, is a significant drawback.

Public transit, while available, suffers from limitations in frequency and route coverage. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be cost-prohibitive. Specialized medical transport fills a critical need for some but is not a universal solution.

The score is also influenced by the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities. While several hospitals and clinics are located within a reasonable distance, the concentration of services in certain areas can create disparities in access for residents living further away.

**Moving to Virginia Beach and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Virginia Beach, particularly to 23456, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and how easily they can access required services.

Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences, the availability of public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or specialized medical transport. Researching the specific healthcare providers in the area and their appointment scheduling processes is also crucial.

**Enhancing the Score:**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" requires a multifaceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including increasing the frequency and coverage of bus routes, is essential. Promoting the use of electric vehicles and expanding bike lanes could also reduce congestion and improve air quality.

Encouraging partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could create more integrated and affordable solutions. This could involve offering subsidized ride-sharing programs or providing transportation assistance to patients in need.

Finally, promoting community awareness of available transportation options and healthcare resources is critical. This includes providing clear and accessible information about public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options.

By addressing these challenges and implementing strategic improvements, Virginia Beach can enhance healthcare access for all residents, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. The ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare services are essential for maintaining and improving the "Overall Health Score" for 23456 and the broader Virginia Beach area.