23707, Portsmouth, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23707, Portsmouth, Virginia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 23707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center with a distance of 0.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23707

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access in Portsmouth's 23707 demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis, designed to inform potential residents or those considering a move to Portsmouth, evaluates the overall health score by examining the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit capabilities, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare within this specific ZIP code.

The 23707 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Portsmouth, presents a mixed bag concerning healthcare access. The city's layout, coupled with varying traffic patterns, significantly influences the time and effort required to reach essential medical services. Understanding these nuances is paramount for anyone prioritizing convenient healthcare options.

Drive times represent a primary factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Residents of 23707 often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Accessing major healthcare providers, such as Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, located just outside the ZIP code, typically involves navigating the busy corridors of *Interstate 264* and *High Street*. During peak hours, this journey can extend beyond 20 minutes, particularly if originating from the northern reaches of the ZIP code.

Other crucial medical facilities, including smaller clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout Portsmouth and neighboring cities. Reaching these destinations may involve traversing *Victory Boulevard*, *Portsmouth Boulevard*, or *Green Street*. The overall drive time to these facilities varies considerably depending on the specific location within 23707 and the destination.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its efficacy varies. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services throughout Portsmouth, including routes that serve the 23707 area. Key routes, such as the *10* and *11*, connect to major medical centers and offer connections to other routes. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on HRT buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. HRT strives to provide accessible transportation, but route-specific accessibility should be verified to ensure a seamless journey. The convenience of public transit is also impacted by the need for transfers and the potential for longer travel times compared to driving.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in the area. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid driving. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, represent another critical component of the transportation landscape. Companies like MedTrans and others offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles or who have other specific medical needs.

The availability and affordability of these medical transport services are essential considerations. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of assistance required.

Considering the multifaceted nature of healthcare access, the overall health score for 23707 reflects a nuanced reality. While the presence of major medical facilities nearby offers a positive aspect, the dependence on transportation and the variability in travel times introduce complexities. The efficiency of public transit and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further influence the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Portsmouth and prioritizing healthcare access, the location within the 23707 ZIP code is essential. Proximity to major thoroughfares like *I-264* and *High Street* can significantly impact drive times. Evaluating the accessibility of HRT bus routes and the availability of ride-sharing services is equally important.

The availability of medical transport services is also a crucial factor, especially for individuals with mobility limitations. Thorough research into these services, including their costs and service areas, is highly recommended.

In conclusion, the overall health score for commute to healthcare in 23707 is moderate. While major medical facilities are within reasonable driving distance, the reliance on transportation, the variability in travel times, and the limitations of public transit introduce complexities. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability should be carefully considered. Potential residents should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences when evaluating healthcare access in this specific area of Portsmouth. This assessment should be an integral part of their decision-making process when moving to Portsmouth.