23702, Portsmouth, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23702, Portsmouth, Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.87 percent of residents in 23702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center with a distance of 2.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23702

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Portsmouth, Virginia, specifically within ZIP Code 23702, requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment considers the ease and efficiency with which individuals can access vital healthcare services. A critical component of this analysis centers on transportation options, as the ability to reach medical facilities directly impacts health outcomes. The following details the various modes of transportation available, their accessibility, and the overall impact on the health score for those residing in this area.

The geographical layout of Portsmouth, nestled along the Elizabeth River, presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare access. While the city boasts a relatively compact footprint, the presence of waterways and the reliance on specific roadways influences commute times. For those considering moving to Portsmouth, understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount.

**Driving the Distance:**

For many, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Within 23702, residents often rely on a network of arterial roads and highways to reach medical appointments. The major thoroughfare, Interstate 264, acts as a crucial artery, connecting Portsmouth to neighboring cities like Norfolk and Chesapeake. Accessing hospitals and specialist clinics in these areas is often achieved via this highway.

However, rush hour congestion can significantly impact drive times. The morning and evening commutes on I-264 can become particularly challenging, potentially adding considerable time to the journey. Alternative routes, such as High Street and Portsmouth Boulevard, provide options for navigating the city, though they too can experience traffic delays.

Furthermore, the condition of the roadways is a factor. Potholes, construction zones, and general wear and tear can contribute to longer travel times and potentially exacerbate existing health conditions. The quality of road maintenance directly affects the overall health score by influencing the ease and safety of transportation.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation offers an essential lifeline to healthcare access. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system provides bus services throughout Portsmouth, including routes that directly serve medical facilities. Several routes, like Route 9 and Route 14, are particularly relevant for healthcare access, connecting residential areas with hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices.

The frequency of these routes, however, can be a limiting factor. While HRT strives to provide regular service, wait times between buses can sometimes be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours. This can be a significant inconvenience for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring timely medical attention.

Importantly, HRT is committed to ADA compliance, ensuring that all buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This includes ramps, priority seating, and audio-visual announcements. These provisions are crucial for promoting equitable healthcare access for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. For individuals needing to schedule appointments, these services can be a reliable option.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, particularly those with limited incomes. The expense of frequent trips to medical appointments can strain household budgets. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the location within the city.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other private providers offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for those who require assistance with mobility or have other medical conditions that make it difficult to travel independently.

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

The availability and accessibility of transportation options directly influence the overall health score of residents in 23702. Factors like commute times, public transit frequency, the affordability of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services all play a role.

Long commute times, whether by car or public transit, can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress levels. These factors negatively impact health outcomes and lower the overall health score.

Conversely, efficient and accessible transportation options improve healthcare access, leading to better health outcomes. The presence of ADA-compliant public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the existence of medical transport services all contribute to a higher health score.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To enhance the overall health score in 23702, several improvements could be implemented. Expanding the frequency of HRT bus routes, particularly those serving medical facilities, would be beneficial. Furthermore, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for low-income residents could improve healthcare access.

Investing in road maintenance and traffic management systems to reduce commute times would also be a positive step. Promoting awareness of available transportation options, including medical transport services, would empower residents to make informed choices about their healthcare access.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a transportation system that supports the health and well-being of all residents in 23702. By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, Portsmouth can strive to improve its overall health score and create a healthier community for everyone. For those considering moving to Portsmouth, the availability of healthcare access, and the transportation options to get there, should be a significant consideration.