23663, Hampton, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23663, Hampton, Virginia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.11 percent of residents in 23663 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hampton Va Medical Center with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23663

Living in the vibrant coastal community of ZIP Code 23663, also known as Newport News, Virginia, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. However, when considering overall health, a crucial factor is the accessibility of healthcare facilities. This report delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents of 23663, evaluating their impact on **healthcare access** and ultimately, contributing to an "Overall Health Score." This is especially pertinent for those **moving to Hampton** and considering their healthcare needs.

The geographical layout of Newport News, with its waterways and sprawling neighborhoods, significantly influences healthcare accessibility. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** are Interstate 64 (I-64), the Peninsula's main east-west thoroughfare, and the Jefferson Avenue corridor, a major north-south route. Other vital roads include Warwick Boulevard, Mercury Boulevard, and J. Clyde Morris Boulevard. These routes determine the drive times to various medical facilities.

Drive times are a critical component of the overall health score. For residents in the central areas of 23663, a trip to Riverside Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 10-15 minutes via Warwick Boulevard or Jefferson Avenue. However, during peak rush hour, these times can easily double, impacting timely **healthcare access**. Accessing Sentara CarePlex Hospital in Hampton, a popular option for some, involves navigating I-64, which can add 20-30 minutes to the journey, particularly during morning and evening commutes.

Public **transportation** options, primarily provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offer an alternative to driving. HRT operates several bus routes serving 23663. Route 112, for example, runs along Jefferson Avenue, providing a direct link to Riverside Regional Medical Center. Route 115 traverses Warwick Boulevard, offering access to various medical offices and clinics. However, these routes may have limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially hindering **healthcare access** for those reliant on public **transportation**.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on HRT buses is a significant factor in the overall health score. HRT strives to provide accessible services, ensuring that all buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall accessibility of the bus stops themselves, including the presence of accessible sidewalks and shelters, varies depending on the location. This can affect the ease of use for those with mobility challenges, impacting their ability to get to their appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another option for **transportation** to medical appointments. These services offer on-demand rides, potentially providing a more flexible and convenient alternative to public **transportation** or driving, especially for those without personal vehicles. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources, affecting their **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for patients, such as CareRide and MedRide, offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments but do not require ambulance services. These specialized services often provide door-to-door assistance, making them a valuable option for those with mobility limitations or other health concerns.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics. Several urgent care centers are strategically located throughout 23663, offering immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. These facilities, such as Patient First and Riverside Urgent Care, can significantly improve **healthcare access** by providing convenient and readily available medical care, reducing the need for emergency room visits.

The proximity of pharmacies and pharmacies with drive-through services further enhances the overall health score. The ability to quickly and easily pick up prescriptions is essential for maintaining health. Several major pharmacy chains, including CVS and Walgreens, have locations within 23663, offering convenient access to medications.

The demographics of 23663 play a crucial role in evaluating healthcare access. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the population all influence the demand for healthcare services and the importance of accessible **transportation**. For example, a larger elderly population may require more frequent medical appointments and rely heavily on **transportation** options.

The overall health score also considers the presence of specialized medical services within the area. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, can impact the need for travel to other locations. The presence of these specialized services within a reasonable distance from 23663 enhances the overall health score.

The quality of the roads and the frequency of traffic congestion also contribute to the overall health score. Poor road conditions and heavy traffic can increase drive times and create stress for individuals traveling to medical appointments. Ongoing infrastructure improvements, such as the widening of I-64, are essential for improving **transportation** efficiency and **healthcare access**.

The overall health score for **transportation** to healthcare in 23663 is complex. While the area offers various **transportation** options, including driving, public **transportation**, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services, challenges remain. Drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be a barrier. The frequency and reach of public **transportation** routes are limited. The cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some.

The overall health score for 23663 is a dynamic measure. It’s not just about the availability of medical facilities, but also about the ease with which residents can reach them. Improvements in public **transportation**, expansion of medical **transportation** services, and ongoing infrastructure investments are all vital for enhancing **healthcare access** and improving the overall health score for residents of 23663. For those **moving to Hampton**, understanding these factors is crucial to ensuring access to quality healthcare.