The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23885, Sutherland, Virginia is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
42.68 percent of residents in 23885 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southside Medical Center with a distance of 11.58 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 23885, Sutherland, Virginia
Overall Health Score | 36 |
---|---|
People Score | 33 |
Provider Score | 40 |
Hospital Score | 46 |
Travel Score | 53 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 23885 | Sutherland | Virginia |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.76 |
1 Car | 5.48 | 5.48 | 18.70 |
2 Cars | 22.37 | 22.37 | 40.01 |
3 or More Cars | 72.15 | 72.15 | 38.53 |
Vehicular Access in 23885, Sutherland, Virginia
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sutherland, Virginia (ZIP Code 23885)
Sutherland, Virginia, nestled within the 23885 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and evolving healthcare needs. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for this area necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the transportation infrastructure that connects residents to vital medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking care in this community.
The cornerstone of accessibility in Sutherland is the road network. The primary arteries facilitating movement are **US Route 1 (South Crater Road)** and **US Route 460**. These highways, while offering relatively direct routes to larger population centers like Petersburg and Richmond, are often subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Delays can significantly impact the timely arrival at medical appointments, potentially exacerbating health outcomes. Further complicating matters, secondary roads like **Cox Road** and **White Oak Road**, while providing access to local businesses and residences, can be narrow and winding, increasing travel times and posing challenges for emergency vehicles.
Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. For routine appointments, residents can typically reach the nearest primary care physicians within a 15-20 minute drive, primarily along **US Route 1**. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to Petersburg or Richmond. This journey can extend to 30-45 minutes, or even longer depending on traffic conditions. The presence of the **I-95** corridor, while providing a faster route to Richmond, can also be a source of significant delays due to accidents or heavy traffic. The overall impact on the health score is a moderate reduction, as the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for extended travel times can be a barrier to timely care.
Public transportation options in Sutherland are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **GRTC (Greater Richmond Transit Company)**, while serving the Richmond area, does not extend its routes into Sutherland. The absence of a robust public transit system leaves residents heavily reliant on personal vehicles or other, often less reliable, alternatives. This lack of accessible public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of public transit significantly lowers the health score, creating a transportation desert for those without access to a car.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability in Sutherland is variable. While these services may be accessible, wait times can be lengthy, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make them financially prohibitive. This inconsistency in service availability and cost further reduces the health score, particularly for those with unpredictable medical needs.
Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. In emergencies, the response time of ambulances is paramount. The proximity of hospitals and the efficiency of emergency services are critical factors. For non-emergency appointments, NEMT services can provide transportation for individuals who are unable to drive themselves. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and the coordination of appointments with transportation schedules can be complex. The reliability and accessibility of these services are essential for maintaining a reasonable health score.
Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are another crucial consideration. Public transit, if available, must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure accessibility for all. Ride-sharing services should also offer accessible vehicle options. Medical facilities should be equipped with ramps, elevators, and other accommodations to ensure that all patients can access care. The availability and quality of these features are essential for maintaining an equitable healthcare system and directly impact the overall health score.
The decision to move to Sutherland, or any rural area, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. While the area may offer a peaceful lifestyle and a sense of community, the limitations in transportation options can pose a significant challenge to maintaining good health. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare services, the distance to medical facilities, and the transportation options available to them.
The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Sutherland, Virginia (ZIP Code 23885) is moderately low. The area faces significant challenges related to transportation infrastructure, particularly the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles. The variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services, combined with the potential for lengthy drive times to specialized care, further contribute to the challenges. While medical transport services offer a vital lifeline, their availability and affordability can vary. Improving the health score would require investments in public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation options. Ultimately, the ability to access timely and appropriate healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring that residents of Sutherland have equitable access to care is essential for promoting overall health and well-being.
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