23662, Poquoson, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23662, Poquoson, Virginia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.11 percent of residents in 23662 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is 633rd Medical Group (Joint Base Langley-Eustis) with a distance of 4.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23662 (Poquoson, VA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a crucial consideration for anyone, especially when relocating. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Poquoson, Virginia (ZIP Code 23662), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services via various transportation methods. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture. Understanding these factors is vital for residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Poquoson, a charming coastal community, offers a unique blend of small-town living and proximity to the larger Hampton Roads region. However, its relative isolation can present challenges regarding healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" for 23662 considers the time and effort required to reach essential medical services, acknowledging that timely access to care is paramount for maintaining well-being. This score is not a numerical value, but a descriptive assessment based on the available transportation options.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many Poquoson residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this mode depends heavily on the road network. The primary arteries connecting Poquoson to healthcare facilities are the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, connecting to Route 17 and Interstate 64 (I-64). These roads are the lifelines for accessing hospitals, specialist clinics, and urgent care centers.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Morning and evening commutes often see increased traffic on I-64, especially around the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT). The HRBT, while providing access to Norfolk and Portsmouth, can be a major bottleneck. Therefore, residents should factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary. Sentara CarePlex Hospital in Hampton, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, another prominent facility, is roughly a 30-45 minute drive. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Hampton and Newport News are generally accessible within 15-20 minutes. The condition of the roads, weather conditions, and accidents can further influence these drive times.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Essential Considerations**

Public transportation options in Poquoson are limited, which is a major consideration for residents without personal vehicles. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are not extensive within the city. The availability of bus routes directly serving medical facilities is also limited.

HRT route 116, a key route, does provide limited service in Poquoson, but it primarily serves the main thoroughfares and doesn't reach all areas of the city. Riders will likely need to transfer to other routes to reach specific healthcare destinations. The accessibility of HRT buses is a crucial factor for those with disabilities. All HRT buses are ADA-compliant, featuring ramps and other accommodations for passengers with mobility challenges. However, the limited service frequency and potential transfer requirements can pose significant challenges for those needing to access healthcare.

The lack of robust public transportation is a significant factor impacting the "Overall Health Score" for 23662. Residents relying on public transit face longer travel times and potential difficulties in reaching appointments, especially for those requiring frequent medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Their availability in Poquoson is generally good, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other needs that make it difficult to travel independently. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport providers operate in the Hampton Roads area, including CareRide and First Transit.

These services are particularly valuable for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those recovering from surgery or illness. While medical transport can be a lifesaver, the cost can be a barrier for some residents. The "Overall Health Score" must consider the financial burden associated with these specialized transportation options.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for 23662 reflects a mixed picture. While Poquoson offers a desirable quality of life, its relative isolation and limited public transportation options impact healthcare access. Residents with personal vehicles enjoy reasonable drive times to nearby healthcare facilities, but traffic congestion can be a factor.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable alternatives, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be a significant consideration. The limited public transportation options, especially the infrequency of the routes, is a major drawback.

**Moving to Poquoson: Planning for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Poquoson, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their access to healthcare facilities, considering the potential impact of traffic, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport.

Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of the decision-making process. This includes researching the locations of healthcare providers, understanding the available transportation options, and budgeting for potential transportation costs. The "Overall Health Score" for 23662 highlights the importance of proactive planning to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 23662 reflects a community with both strengths and weaknesses in healthcare access. While drive times to major facilities are generally reasonable, the limitations of public transit and the potential cost of alternative transportation options must be considered. Residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and plan accordingly to ensure that they can access the healthcare services they require.