23461, Virginia Beach, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23461, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

97.60 percent of residents in 23461 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 6.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23461

Navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 23461, a region encompassing parts of Virginia Beach, demands a keen understanding of transportation options. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating access to medical facilities, considering commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation methods. Prospective residents, those considering moving to Virginia Beach, and current inhabitants alike will find this information invaluable in assessing their healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments and treatments. Factors such as drive times, public transportation reliability, and the availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to this score. A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges in reaching medical providers.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for transportation in 23461 are the major highways. Interstate 264 (I-264) serves as a crucial east-west corridor, connecting the area to other parts of Virginia Beach and beyond. Interstate 64 (I-64), a north-south route, offers access to Norfolk and other Hampton Roads cities. Residents often utilize these interstates for commuting to healthcare facilities.

Local roadways like Virginia Beach Boulevard, Independence Boulevard, and Lynnhaven Parkway further facilitate travel within the ZIP code. These roads provide access to numerous medical offices, clinics, and hospitals. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially hindering healthcare access.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location within 23461 and the destination. For example, reaching Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, a major medical center, from the western parts of the ZIP code might involve a 20-30 minute drive via I-264 and Independence Boulevard, excluding traffic delays. Traveling to smaller clinics or urgent care centers closer to home might take only 10-15 minutes.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation services within Virginia Beach, including ZIP Code 23461. Several bus routes operate in the area, offering an alternative to driving. Route 20, which runs along Virginia Beach Boulevard, is a vital route for accessing medical facilities. Route 22, which operates along Independence Boulevard, also provides access to healthcare providers.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This ensures accessibility for a wide range of residents. However, public transportation may not be ideal for everyone, due to potential travel times and route limitations.

The frequency of bus service can also impact healthcare access. During peak hours, buses typically run more frequently, reducing wait times. However, during off-peak hours and on weekends, service frequency may be reduced, potentially increasing travel times and making it more challenging to reach medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 23461, offering another transportation option. These services can be particularly useful for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate bus routes or parking challenges.

Medical transportation services, such as Care Ride and MedRide, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges or other medical needs. They are particularly valuable for those who require assistance beyond standard ride-sharing services.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The availability of diverse transportation options is crucial for ensuring healthcare access. Residents in 23461 benefit from a combination of driving, public transit, and ride-sharing services. However, the "Overall Health Score" must consider the limitations of each option.

Traffic congestion on I-264 and other roadways can significantly increase drive times, especially during rush hour. This can lead to missed appointments or increased stress for patients. Public transportation, while accessible, may involve longer travel times and potential delays. Ride-sharing services, while convenient, can be costly.

Individuals considering moving to Virginia Beach should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to public transportation routes, and the availability of ride-sharing services should all be considered.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Commute Analysis:**

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, located at 1060 First Colonial Road, is a major healthcare provider within the region. Reaching this hospital from various points within 23461 will vary. For instance, a resident living near the intersection of Princess Anne Road and Holland Road might face a 20-30 minute drive via I-264 and Independence Boulevard, assuming moderate traffic.

Another important facility is the Virginia Beach Community Health Center, with multiple locations. The center offers primary care and specialized services. Commuting to these centers will also depend on the resident's location.

Smaller clinics and urgent care centers are dispersed throughout 23461, offering convenient access to immediate medical needs. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter than those to larger hospitals.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 23461 is rated as **Good**. The area offers a reasonable balance of transportation options. However, the score is tempered by potential challenges, such as traffic congestion and limitations in public transit frequency.

For individuals who can drive, healthcare access is generally good. Ride-sharing services provide a viable alternative. However, those relying on public transportation may face longer travel times and potential inconveniences.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To further enhance the "Overall Health Score," several improvements are recommended. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing service frequency, especially during off-peak hours, would improve access for those relying on buses. Addressing traffic congestion on major roadways, such as I-264, would reduce drive times and improve the reliability of transportation. Promoting the awareness and availability of medical transportation services would benefit those with mobility challenges.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While 23461 offers a relatively good environment for accessing medical services, continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services will further enhance the health and well-being of its residents. This analysis provides a valuable starting point for individuals considering moving to Virginia Beach and for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access options.