23607, Newport News, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23607, Newport News, Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.62 percent of residents in 23607 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23607

Living in ZIP Code 23607, nestled in the heart of Newport News, Virginia, presents a unique tapestry of opportunities and challenges. This analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the transportation landscape that connects residents to vital medical services. Our "Overall Health Score" will illuminate the ease, or difficulty, of reaching healthcare facilities, painting a picture of the transportation options available and their impact on the community’s well-being. For those considering moving to Newport News, this assessment offers a crucial perspective.

The geographical layout of 23607, a blend of residential neighborhoods, commercial zones, and pockets of natural beauty, dictates the transportation dynamics. The primary arteries of movement are Interstate 64 (I-64), a major east-west thoroughfare, and Jefferson Avenue, a bustling north-south corridor. These roads, along with Warwick Boulevard and Mercury Boulevard, form the backbone of the road network, influencing drive times to various healthcare providers.

Drive times are a significant factor in healthcare access. Residents in 23607 have several options. Consider Sentara Careplex Hospital, located in neighboring Hampton. Reaching this facility via I-64 typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Riverside Regional Medical Center, a prominent healthcare provider within Newport News, is generally accessible within 10-20 minutes, depending on the specific location within 23607 and the route taken (often involving Warwick Boulevard or Jefferson Avenue).

The commute to healthcare can be impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Accidents on I-64 or Jefferson Avenue can significantly extend travel times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. Therefore, understanding these potential delays is crucial for residents and those planning to move to the area.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of considerations. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus service throughout Newport News, including routes that connect 23607 to healthcare facilities. The primary routes serving the area include the 116, 117, and 118, which run along major thoroughfares like Jefferson Avenue and Warwick Boulevard. These routes provide access to Riverside Regional Medical Center and other medical offices.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited. This can pose a challenge for those needing timely access to healthcare appointments outside of typical business hours.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services can be readily accessed within 23607 and provide a door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transportation routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer another layer of support. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers often specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. While these services provide a crucial lifeline, they often require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria.

The availability of healthcare facilities within and near 23607 also influences the transportation needs of residents. Riverside Regional Medical Center, located in the heart of Newport News, offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, specialty clinics, and outpatient services. This proximity significantly reduces travel times for many residents. However, depending on the specific medical needs, residents may need to travel to facilities in neighboring cities like Hampton or Williamsburg.

Access to specialized healthcare, such as oncology or cardiology, may necessitate longer commutes to facilities offering these specific services. The availability of these specialized services in the immediate vicinity of 23607 is an important factor when evaluating overall healthcare access.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in 23607 is a nuanced calculation. While the area benefits from a relatively well-developed road network and the availability of ride-sharing services, challenges remain. Public transportation options, while present, may have limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can also be a barrier for some residents.

The presence of a major hospital, Riverside Regional Medical Center, within Newport News is a significant advantage, reducing travel times for many residents. However, the need to travel to specialized healthcare facilities in other cities can increase commute times and add complexity to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Newport News, specifically to ZIP Code 23607, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Understanding the drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized medical services should also be considered.

The overall health score for 23607 reflects a mixed bag. The area offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, but improvements in public transportation frequency, affordability of ride-sharing, and the availability of specialized medical services within the immediate vicinity would enhance the overall health score. The transportation infrastructure is a critical component of the overall health of the community.