23708, Portsmouth, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23708, Portsmouth, Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 23708 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 0.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Portsmouth with a distance of 0.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23708

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Portsmouth, Virginia's 23708 ZIP code requires a deep dive into the crucial intersection of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis examines the various modes of transportation available, their efficiency, and the impact on residents' ability to reach essential medical services. Understanding these factors provides a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare within this specific community.

The primary challenge for 23708 residents lies in its geographical layout and the limited public transportation infrastructure. The area is bordered by the Elizabeth River and the Western Branch of the Elizabeth River, creating natural barriers that influence travel patterns. Furthermore, the dependence on personal vehicles is significant, making healthcare access particularly vulnerable to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities from 23708 are Interstate 264 (I-264) and US Route 17. I-264 provides a direct route to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) in Norfolk, a major healthcare hub. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during the morning and evening commutes, potentially adding significant time to the journey.

US Route 17 offers an alternative route, though it's often slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. This route also provides access to local clinics and medical offices within Portsmouth, such as Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center. The condition of these roadways, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can further impact drive times and the safety of travel, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

The drive times to various healthcare facilities from 23708 vary considerably. A trip to Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center might take 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions, while a journey to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital could extend to 20-30 minutes or longer during rush hour. Factors like accidents or construction can dramatically increase these times, impacting the timely delivery of healthcare.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system serves the 23708 ZIP code, offering bus routes that connect to various healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage within the area are often limited. Route 11, for example, provides a connection to downtown Portsmouth and some medical offices, but its schedule may not be conducive to early morning appointments or late-night emergencies.

HRT strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transportation system. These buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, designated seating areas, and audio-visual announcements. However, the availability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops, including the presence of ramps and accessible pathways, remain crucial considerations.

The reliance on public transit can significantly impact healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The longer travel times and the need to navigate multiple transfers can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic illnesses, mobility issues, or limited financial resources. This underscores the need for improved public transportation infrastructure and more frequent service to enhance healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 23708 area, providing an alternative transportation option. These services offer a degree of convenience and flexibility, allowing residents to schedule rides directly to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for low-income individuals or those requiring frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized transportation providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services are equipped to transport patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical requirements. However, these services are often reserved for specific medical situations and may not be readily available for routine appointments.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services play a crucial role in healthcare access. While these options offer valuable assistance, their cost and availability can create disparities in healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for 23708 residents is significantly influenced by the interplay of transportation and healthcare access. The limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the challenges associated with drive times create barriers to accessing timely and effective medical care. These factors can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes.

Furthermore, the cost of transportation, whether through personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport, can place a financial burden on residents, particularly those with limited incomes. This financial strain can exacerbate existing health disparities and contribute to overall health inequities.

For individuals considering moving to Portsmouth, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the availability of healthcare facilities within their desired proximity. This includes evaluating the accessibility of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential impact of traffic congestion on their ability to reach medical appointments.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for 23708 residents, several key initiatives are recommended. First, expanding and improving the public transportation system is essential. This includes increasing the frequency of bus routes, extending service hours, and enhancing the accessibility of bus stops.

Second, promoting ride-sharing programs and providing financial assistance to low-income individuals can help alleviate the cost of transportation. This could involve partnerships with local healthcare providers or community organizations.

Third, investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road repairs and traffic management systems, can reduce drive times and improve the safety of travel. This includes addressing potholes, improving traffic flow, and implementing smart traffic management technologies.

Finally, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations can create a more integrated and accessible healthcare system. This includes developing patient navigation programs, providing transportation assistance, and promoting telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve healthcare access for 23708 residents, leading to better health outcomes and a higher overall health score. The journey to improved healthcare begins with a commitment to making transportation a more equitable and accessible component of community life.