23691, Yorktown, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23691, Yorktown, Virginia is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

98.76 percent of residents in 23691 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 6.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23691

Yorktown, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Historic Triangle, presents a unique blend of colonial charm and modern living. Prospective residents considering a move to Yorktown (ZIP Code 23691) often prioritize healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating transportation options to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can access essential healthcare services, a critical factor in overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for 23691, concerning healthcare access, is influenced significantly by the geographical layout of the area. The peninsula, while offering scenic beauty, can present challenges in navigating to healthcare providers. The score considers the proximity of various medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers, and how easily residents can reach them. Factors like traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, are also incorporated into the assessment.

**Drive Time Analysis**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 23691. The major arteries, including Interstate 64 (I-64), Route 17 (George Washington Memorial Highway), and Route 143 (Merrimac Trail), are critical for reaching medical facilities. Traffic patterns, particularly during rush hour, significantly impact drive times.

For instance, a trip from central Yorktown to Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 20-30 minutes via I-64, depending on traffic. Accessing Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, located in Williamsburg, usually requires a 15-25 minute drive, primarily via Route 17. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located within Yorktown, such as those along Route 17, offer more immediate access, with drive times often under 10 minutes.

The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the importance of considering travel times to various healthcare providers. The score also accounts for the availability of parking at these facilities, which can further influence the ease of access. Residents should factor in the time spent searching for parking, especially during peak hours, when planning their healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation, while available, plays a more limited role in healthcare access within 23691. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system provides bus service throughout the region, but its coverage in Yorktown is less extensive compared to more urban areas.

HRT Route 106, for example, serves the Yorktown area, offering connections to Newport News and Williamsburg. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not always align with healthcare appointment schedules. ADA-accessible buses are available on most routes, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The "Overall Health Score" reflects the challenges associated with relying solely on public transit for healthcare access in Yorktown. The limited route coverage and potential for longer travel times necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options. Residents may need to coordinate their appointments with the HRT schedule and factor in potential delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options for healthcare access in 23691. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times and increasing convenience. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in less densely populated areas.

The "Overall Health Score" recognizes the value of ride-sharing services, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Residents can use these services to reach medical appointments, but should consider potential surge pricing during high-demand periods.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other private providers, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. These services are often reserved for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who need medical supervision during transport.

The "Overall Health Score" accounts for the availability of medical transport services, which are crucial for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions that limit their ability to use other transportation options. Residents should research and understand the specific services offered by these providers, including their coverage areas and associated costs.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score"**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 23691 is a composite measure, taking into account the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option. The score considers the proximity of medical facilities, the efficiency of drive times, the reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the specialized needs of medical transport.

The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that can be influenced by various factors, including individual needs, the location of the healthcare provider, and the time of day. The score also acknowledges the importance of considering the overall cost of transportation, including fuel, parking fees, and ride-sharing fares.

**Moving to Yorktown: A Health-Conscious Decision**

For those considering moving to Yorktown, understanding the "Overall Health Score" is critical. While the area offers a high quality of life, healthcare access requires careful planning. Residents should assess their transportation needs, consider the location of their preferred healthcare providers, and explore the available transportation options.

The "Overall Health Score" encourages prospective residents to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation method. Those reliant on public transit should research HRT routes and schedules. Individuals without personal vehicles should explore ride-sharing services. Those with mobility issues should investigate medical transport options.

The "Overall Health Score" also promotes proactive healthcare planning. Residents should establish a network of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services. They should also familiarize themselves with the location of nearby hospitals, clinics, and urgent care facilities.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for 23691 presents a balanced perspective on healthcare access. While driving remains the most convenient option for many, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences when considering healthcare access in Yorktown. By understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, residents can ensure they receive timely and efficient access to essential healthcare services. The "Overall Health Score" is a valuable tool for anyone considering moving to Yorktown, allowing them to make an informed decision about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.