23693, Yorktown, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23693, Yorktown, Virginia is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.82 percent of residents in 23693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Yorktown, VA (ZIP Code 23693)

Yorktown, Virginia, nestled within the 23693 ZIP code, offers a blend of historical charm and modern living. However, when considering overall health, the ease with which residents can access healthcare services is paramount. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the available options. This analysis is crucial for anyone considering moving to Yorktown, offering a clear picture of what to expect when seeking medical care.

The score considers various factors, including drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. A high score indicates convenient and readily available healthcare access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges in reaching necessary medical appointments.

**Drive Time and Roadway Considerations**

Yorktown's primary roadways, namely Interstate 64 (I-64), Route 17 (George Washington Memorial Highway), and Route 143 (Merrimac Trail), dictate the speed and efficiency of healthcare commutes. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Access to major hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas, such as Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News or Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, is heavily reliant on these thoroughfares.

Driving to Riverside Regional Medical Center from central Yorktown, for instance, typically involves navigating I-64, a journey that can take between 20 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, accidents or rush-hour delays can easily extend this time, potentially impacting the timely arrival for appointments or emergency care. Similarly, reaching Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center often involves a drive along Route 17, a route that, while scenic, can experience congestion, especially near commercial areas.

For those residing in more remote sections of the 23693 ZIP code, the drive times to healthcare facilities can be even longer. This extended travel time can be a significant deterrent to seeking preventative care or managing chronic conditions. The condition of the roads themselves, potholes, and construction zones, can also add to the stress and time associated with healthcare commutes.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Yorktown, while present, are somewhat limited in their scope and frequency. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system provides bus services within the region. However, the coverage within Yorktown itself is not extensive, and the routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

Bus routes, such as Route 116, which connects to Newport News, and Route 118, which serves the Williamsburg area, can be utilized, but they often require transfers and may involve extended travel times. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize public transportation. However, the limited frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can pose significant challenges for those needing to reach healthcare appointments.

**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 Yorktown is generally good, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by Firstat Nursing Services or MedTrans Corporation, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transport. While these services offer a valuable lifeline for those with mobility limitations, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

Given the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Yorktown (23693) is moderately positive. While the presence of major roadways and ride-sharing services provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for traffic delays introduce challenges.

**Specific Recommendations for Moving to Yorktown**

For individuals considering moving to Yorktown, several factors should be carefully considered. Proximity to healthcare facilities is paramount. Evaluate the accessibility of hospitals, clinics, and specialists based on your individual healthcare needs. Consider the potential impact of traffic congestion on drive times, particularly during peak hours.

Assess the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and explore the options for medical transport if needed. If relying on public transportation, familiarize yourself with the HRT routes and schedules, and ensure that the routes align with your healthcare needs.

Furthermore, individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should proactively investigate the availability of specialized medical transport services and assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities. Planning ahead, including scheduling appointments strategically and allowing ample travel time, is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Yorktown, Virginia, reflects a landscape where transportation plays a crucial role. While the region offers decent options, residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances to ensure that they can effectively access the healthcare services they require. Careful planning, including considering the impact of traffic, public transportation limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing, is essential for maintaining good health and well-being in this historic and vibrant community.