23921, Buckingham, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 23921, Buckingham, Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.79 percent of residents in 23921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Centra Southside Community Hospital, Inc with a distance of 20.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23921

Buckingham, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Commonwealth, offers a tranquil rural setting. Yet, assessing the overall health of its residents requires a nuanced understanding of their access to healthcare, a crucial element often intertwined with the ease and efficiency of transportation. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 23921, evaluating the available options for commuting to healthcare facilities, thereby contributing to an overall "Health Score" for the area.

The primary challenge in Buckingham lies in its relative remoteness. Residents often find themselves reliant on personal vehicles for transportation. The major arteries serving the area include US Route 60, a vital east-west corridor, and US Route 15, which runs north-south. These highways, though providing essential connectivity, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or when encountering incidents. Secondary roads like State Route 24 and State Route 56 offer alternative routes, but they may be narrower, winding, and potentially less well-maintained, particularly impacting those with mobility limitations.

Drive times to healthcare facilities, therefore, become a critical factor. The closest primary care physicians and general practitioners are likely located in Dillwyn, a short drive via US Route 60. This journey, typically under 20 minutes in optimal conditions, can extend considerably during rush hour or inclement weather. For specialized care, residents often need to travel to Farmville, a journey of approximately 30-45 minutes via US Route 15 or US Route 60. The longer travel times can be a significant deterrent, especially for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments or those experiencing acute medical emergencies.

Public transportation options within Buckingham County are limited. The primary provider is the Piedmont Regional Transportation Authority (PRTA), offering a demand-response service. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, making spontaneous trips to healthcare facilities challenging. Furthermore, the PRTA's coverage may be limited in certain areas, and the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, while present, might be subject to scheduling constraints. The reliance on pre-booked rides can create delays and increase the stress associated with seeking medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or readily accessible as in more urban environments. Availability can fluctuate based on driver density and demand. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to healthcare facilities, can become a financial burden for some residents, potentially impacting their willingness to seek necessary medical care.

Medical transport services, specifically those designed for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized option. Companies like Logisticare and MTM (Medical Transportation Management) often contract with Medicaid and other insurance providers to transport eligible individuals to and from medical appointments. However, eligibility criteria and the availability of these services can vary, and the scheduling process might require pre-authorization, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in 23921 is, therefore, moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. While the area benefits from the presence of major highways, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. These factors can contribute to delayed care, missed appointments, and a general sense of isolation for those without reliable transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Buckingham, understanding these transportation constraints is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the available transportation options. Those with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or a lack of personal transportation might face significant hurdles in accessing timely and consistent medical care.

The local healthcare landscape also plays a vital role. The presence of local clinics, urgent care facilities, and telehealth services can help mitigate the impact of transportation challenges. Telehealth, in particular, offers a promising avenue for remote consultations and follow-up care, reducing the need for in-person visits and expanding healthcare access for residents in 23921.

The county’s efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand public transit options are critical to improving the Health Score. Initiatives that promote carpooling, subsidized ride-sharing programs, or partnerships with medical transport providers could significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents. Furthermore, investing in the expansion of telehealth services and supporting the establishment of additional healthcare facilities within the county would further alleviate the transportation burden.

In conclusion, the Health Score for commuting to healthcare in 23921 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, the transportation limitations pose a significant barrier to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, expanded public transit, and innovative healthcare delivery models is essential to improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Buckingham County. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is a key determinant of their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.