23829, Capron, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23829, Capron, Virginia is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.99 percent of residents in 23829 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23829 (Capron, VA)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 23829, focusing on the critical factor of healthcare access. The score considers the ease of transportation to medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Capron, Virginia, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The following assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its influence on healthcare access within and around this rural community.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Capron stems from its rural location. The town is situated in Southampton County, Virginia, an area characterized by dispersed population and limited public transportation infrastructure. This geographical reality significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care facilities is a fundamental determinant of health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in 23829 is personal vehicles. Driving distances to healthcare facilities vary considerably. The nearest medical clinic, Southampton Family Practice, is located in Courtland, approximately 10 miles away. This drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, primarily utilizing US-58, a major east-west thoroughfare. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, especially near Courtland.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Franklin, Virginia, which is approximately 20 miles away. The drive to Franklin Regional Medical Center, the closest hospital, takes about 30-40 minutes, primarily using US-58 and VA-671. This journey can be longer during inclement weather or heavy traffic. Accessing larger medical centers in Suffolk (Sentara Obici Hospital) or Norfolk (Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters) requires significantly longer drives, often exceeding an hour, primarily via US-58 and US-460, or I-64.

The condition of the roads, while generally good, can be a concern, especially on secondary roads like VA-671. Potholes and uneven surfaces can pose challenges for vehicles and potentially exacerbate medical conditions. The "Overall Health Score" is impacted by these factors, as longer drive times and potential road hazards can increase stress, delay treatment, and limit access for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

**Public Transit**

Public transportation options in 23829 are extremely limited. Southampton County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or have limited financial resources. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents, negatively impacting their "Overall Health Score."

There is no indication of any public transit routes, such as bus numbers, that serve the immediate area. Furthermore, the lack of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant transportation options is a serious concern. Individuals with mobility limitations may struggle to access healthcare facilities without relying on family, friends, or expensive transportation alternatives.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially in rural areas like Capron. The frequency of service and the potential for surge pricing during peak demand or off-peak hours can make these options unreliable and costly. The availability of ride-sharing services does offer a potential solution for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle, but the inherent limitations impact the "Overall Health Score."

Medical transportation services are available, but they often come with significant costs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other private ambulance services provide transportation for medical appointments, but these services are typically reserved for individuals requiring medical assistance during transport. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, which cater to individuals needing assistance getting to appointments, are available, but they may require advance booking and can be expensive. The cost and availability of these specialized transportation options further influence the "Overall Health Score."

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 23829 is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation create challenges for residents seeking timely and affordable medical care. This is especially true for those with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community health. The challenges faced by residents of 23829 underscore the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access. This could include exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation, advocating for the development of a county-wide public transit system, or supporting the expansion of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.

**Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for transportation and healthcare access in 23829 reflects the realities of rural living. While the proximity to basic medical services is relatively good, the lack of robust public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the cost of alternative transportation options present significant challenges. For those considering moving to Capron, the availability of a reliable vehicle and the ability to navigate longer drive times are crucial considerations. Addressing the transportation barriers to healthcare access is essential for improving the health and well-being of the residents of 23829.