22946, Keene, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 22946, Keene, Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.66 percent of residents in 22946 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Virginia Medical Center with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keene, ZIP Code 22946

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It’s not just about the medical expertise available, but also the ease with which one can access it. This write-up, a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment, focuses on the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 22946 (Keene, Virginia), aiming to paint a picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Keene or already residing there. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, all crucial elements in the fight against breast cancer.

For those in Keene facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the immediate concern is often the proximity of specialized care. The closest major medical center, the University of Virginia (UVA) Health System in Charlottesville, is a critical destination. Driving from Keene to UVA Medical Center involves navigating a network of roads. The most direct route typically utilizes **US-29 South**, a major artery connecting Keene to Charlottesville. Expect a drive time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This time can fluctuate significantly during peak commuting hours or due to unforeseen incidents.

Alternatively, accessing UVA Medical Center from Keene via **US-29 South** and then taking **I-64 East** is another option. This route might add a few minutes to the overall travel time, but it can sometimes offer a smoother experience, especially during periods of heavy traffic on US-29. The ability to choose between these two primary routes provides some flexibility for patients, a crucial aspect of healthcare access.

Beyond UVA, other healthcare facilities exist in the Charlottesville area that could be relevant for breast cancer care. These might include outpatient clinics, imaging centers, or radiation oncology facilities. Accessing these facilities will also largely depend on the same transportation infrastructure, primarily **US-29 South** and **I-64 East**. The drive times to these locations will vary depending on their specific locations within Charlottesville, but generally, they will be within the same time frame as the drive to UVA Medical Center.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative, presents a different set of considerations. The primary public transit provider in the Charlottesville area is the Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT). CAT does not directly serve Keene, but it does offer routes that connect to areas closer to Keene. The options are limited and involve multiple transfers, potentially adding considerable travel time.

For example, a resident of Keene might need to take a local bus or arrange a ride to reach a CAT bus stop on **US-29 South**. From there, they could connect to a CAT route that travels into Charlottesville. This journey could easily take over an hour, making it a less appealing option for frequent appointments or treatments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for patients with mobility limitations. CAT generally provides ADA-compliant buses on its routes, but it's essential to confirm the accessibility of specific routes and bus stops in advance.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Charlottesville area and offer a more convenient transportation alternative compared to public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in areas outside of Charlottesville's core, can also be a concern. Patients needing transportation at specific times for treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy must factor in the reliability of ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like CareRide or MedRide specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and assistance with mobility aids. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they provide a higher level of support and reliability, which is often critical for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Keene, ZIP Code 22946, is influenced by several factors. The proximity to UVA Medical Center, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options are positive elements. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays on US-29 South and I-64 East pose challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Keene or already residing there and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is paramount. Factors to consider include the frequency of medical appointments, the type of treatment required, and their individual mobility limitations. Planning for transportation needs is an integral part of managing the complexities of breast cancer care.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is intrinsically linked to healthcare access. It's about ensuring that patients can reach their appointments without undue stress or delay. It's about creating a system that prioritizes their well-being and empowers them to focus on their health. This 'Breast Cancer Score' write-up highlights the importance of considering transportation as a vital component of the healthcare journey, especially for those facing the challenges of breast cancer.