23696, Seaford, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23696, Seaford, Virginia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.26 percent of residents in 23696 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 5.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23696 (Seaford, Virginia)

Welcome to Seaford, Virginia (ZIP Code 23696), a charming coastal community offering a blend of tranquility and convenience. However, when considering your overall health and well-being, it's crucial to understand the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** within this area. This report provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the ease of reaching medical facilities from your potential new home. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to paint a complete picture, helping you make an informed decision if you're **moving to Seaford**.

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective measure, considering factors like travel time, mode of transport, accessibility, and the availability of diverse healthcare options. It's a holistic view, acknowledging that healthcare isn't just about the doctor's visit; it's about the journey to get there.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transport in Seaford is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Your "Overall Health Score" will be significantly impacted by drive times, which can fluctuate based on traffic, especially during peak hours. From the heart of Seaford, reaching major healthcare providers requires navigating a network of highways and roads.

Access to the Riverside Doctors' Hospital in Williamsburg, a major healthcare hub, necessitates a drive along US-17, a major thoroughfare connecting the Peninsula. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential bottlenecks can occur near the Coleman Bridge, particularly during rush hour.

For those seeking specialized care at the Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, the journey involves a similar route, utilizing US-17. The drive time is comparable, also ranging from 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This route also offers access to several urgent care facilities and specialist clinics along the way.

Access to the Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital in Newport News involves a drive along US-17 South and I-64 East. This route typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer journey is a factor that affects the "Overall Health Score."

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit in Seaford, and the surrounding areas, is limited. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services, but the routes serving Seaford are infrequent and may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities.

Route 106, the primary HRT bus route serving the area, offers limited service. This route primarily serves the Yorktown area, and connections to hospitals require transfers, significantly increasing travel time. The "Overall Health Score" is negatively impacted by the limited public transit options.

Accessibility is a crucial factor. HRT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Seaford area. However, availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can influence the "Overall Health Score" negatively.

Medical transport services, such as MedRide and CareRide, are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door transport and can be a valuable resource for those with mobility issues or who do not have access to personal transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor.

**Healthcare Access and Availability:**

The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance. While Seaford itself has limited healthcare facilities, the proximity to Williamsburg and Newport News provides access to a wide range of medical specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers.

The presence of multiple hospital systems, including Riverside and Sentara, offers a competitive healthcare environment, potentially leading to better quality of care and a wider range of services. However, the drive times to these facilities must be considered when assessing the "Overall Health Score."

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 23696 can be considered **moderate**. The availability of personal transportation is a significant advantage, allowing for relatively quick access to major healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, potential traffic congestion, and the limited public transit options are factors that slightly diminish the score.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides an alternative, but the limitations in availability impact the score. The availability of medical transport services offers a valuable resource for those with specific needs, but the associated costs must be considered.

The proximity to a variety of healthcare providers, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and urgent care centers, enhances the "Overall Health Score."

**Recommendations:**

If you are **moving to Seaford**, consider the following recommendations to optimize your healthcare access:

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive, and consider the potential impact of traffic on your commute.
* **Explore ride-sharing options:** Familiarize yourself with the availability of Uber and Lyft in the area.
* **Investigate medical transport services:** If you require assistance with transportation, research the available medical transport providers and their associated costs.
* **Plan for potential delays:** Factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare providers:** When choosing a home, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and the ease of access via major roadways.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about your health and well-being while residing in Seaford, Virginia. The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure, and by proactively addressing the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, you can enhance your overall quality of life in this charming coastal community.