23518, Norfolk, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23518, Norfolk, Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.91 percent of residents in 23518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc with a distance of 6.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23518

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which residents can access medical services significantly impacts their health. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 23518, a vibrant area of Norfolk, Virginia, considering the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, is paramount for anyone considering moving to Norfolk or residing within this specific community.

The “Overall Health Score” considers several factors, including drive times to major medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ADA-accessible routes, and the prevalence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This holistic approach aims to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around 23518 are Interstate 264, Interstate 64, and the Hampton Boulevard. These highways and roads are essential for reaching major healthcare providers in the area. Drive times, however, can fluctuate considerably depending on the time of day, traffic congestion, and potential accidents.

Residents of 23518 enjoy relatively convenient access to several prominent healthcare facilities. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major regional medical center, is typically accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic flow along Hampton Boulevard or Brambleton Avenue. The Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD), a renowned pediatric facility, is also within a similar driving distance, often reachable via I-264 or Hampton Boulevard.

Other healthcare options, such as Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center, are accessible, though drive times may extend to 20-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Residents should factor in these potential delays, especially during peak commuting hours, when planning medical appointments or emergencies. The ability to quickly reach these facilities is a crucial component of the overall health score.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation services within the 23518 ZIP code, offering a network of bus routes that connect residents to various destinations, including healthcare facilities. Several bus routes serve the area, providing access to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices.

Route 20, for example, travels along Hampton Boulevard, offering direct access to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and CHKD. Route 14 provides service along Brambleton Avenue, connecting residents to medical offices and clinics. Route 15 and Route 16 are also important routes that provide access to healthcare providers.

HRT strives to ensure accessibility for all riders, including those with disabilities. All HRT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, making public transit a viable option for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can sometimes be a limiting factor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 23518, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, reducing the stress of navigating traffic and parking.

Medical transport services, such as MedRide and First Transit, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with mobility needs. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with limited mobility or those who require specialized medical attention during transport.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services significantly enhances healthcare access, especially for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or who find public transportation challenging. These services contribute positively to the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare accessibility in 23518 is considered to be relatively good. The proximity to major hospitals and healthcare providers, combined with the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, creates a supportive environment for accessing medical care.

The primary strengths of this ZIP code are the relatively short drive times to major hospitals, the presence of ADA-accessible public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. These factors contribute to a high level of healthcare access for residents.

However, there are areas for potential improvement. Traffic congestion during peak hours can impact drive times, and the frequency of public transit service, particularly during off-peak hours, could be enhanced. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a barrier for some residents.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For those considering moving to Norfolk or residing in 23518, it is essential to assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences. If you rely on public transit, familiarize yourself with the HRT bus routes and schedules. If you prefer driving, factor in potential traffic delays when planning medical appointments.

Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. These options can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility challenges or those who require assistance with transportation.

Regularly review your healthcare coverage and ensure you have access to the necessary medical services. Consider the location of your primary care physician and any specialists you may need to see, and factor in the commute time when choosing a healthcare provider.

By understanding the transportation options and healthcare resources available in 23518, residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. The “Overall Health Score” reflects a community that is relatively well-positioned to support the healthcare needs of its residents.