23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.02 percent of residents in 23460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 3.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23460

Navigating the intricacies of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when the destination is a vibrant coastal community like Virginia Beach, Virginia, and specifically ZIP Code 23460. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by assessing the transportation landscape, crucial for reaching medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, offering a comprehensive perspective on healthcare accessibility.

ZIP Code 23460, encompassing areas like Kempsville and parts of Princess Anne, presents a unique blend of suburban and urban characteristics. Transportation options are varied, impacting the ease with which residents can access healthcare. The score reflects the degree of convenience and efficiency in traveling to medical appointments, ultimately influencing overall health outcomes.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 64 (I-64), the primary east-west artery, can experience significant congestion, especially around the I-64/I-264 interchange, a known bottleneck.

Access to healthcare in 23460 often involves navigating these busy roadways. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the chosen medical facility, drive times can fluctuate considerably. For example, reaching Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, a major medical center, might take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours from central 23460. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily extend to 30-45 minutes, significantly impacting the ability to keep appointments.

Other crucial roads, such as Virginia Beach Boulevard, Independence Boulevard, and Lynnhaven Parkway, are also vital for healthcare access. These routes provide direct connections to various medical practices, urgent care centers, and specialist offices. Residents considering moving to Virginia Beach should factor in potential drive times to their preferred healthcare providers, considering the impact of traffic.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offers public transportation options within Virginia Beach, including routes that serve 23460. The effectiveness of public transit in healthcare access hinges on route frequency, coverage, and accessibility features. Several bus routes traverse the area, connecting residents to medical facilities.

Route 20, for instance, often provides a link to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital. Route 22, another key route, provides access to healthcare facilities along Virginia Beach Boulevard. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit.

However, public transit in this area has its limitations. Route frequency can be a concern, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially extending travel times. The need for transfers can also add to the overall commute duration. While public transit offers an alternative to driving, it may not always be the most convenient or efficient option for reaching medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Virginia Beach, including 23460. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for those who do not own a vehicle or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance. However, it generally provides a flexible and accessible way to reach healthcare facilities. For individuals with mobility limitations, ride-sharing services can be a valuable option, especially when coupled with ADA-accessible features.

Specialized medical transport services are also available, catering to individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, such as medical transport brands, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing door-to-door service and ensuring that patients arrive safely and on time.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 23460 is a composite measure, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation mode. Drive times are a significant factor, with traffic congestion impacting the efficiency of personal vehicle travel. Public transit offers an alternative, but its effectiveness is limited by route frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide on-demand options, enhancing accessibility.

Considering these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 23460 is moderate. While the area offers a variety of transportation options, challenges exist. The impact of traffic on drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services are factors that can influence the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score," several improvements could be implemented. Investing in public transit infrastructure, including increasing route frequency and expanding coverage, could improve accessibility. Promoting ride-sharing programs for medical appointments, possibly through partnerships with healthcare providers, could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, continued efforts to improve traffic flow on major roadways, such as I-64, would reduce drive times and improve healthcare access. Providing clear and accessible information about transportation options, including public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, would empower residents to make informed decisions.

**Conclusion: Planning for Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Virginia Beach and specifically 23460, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure that they can access the care they require. This detailed assessment is a critical component of planning a move to Virginia Beach, ensuring a smooth transition and promoting overall well-being.