23050, Dutton, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23050, Dutton, Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.09 percent of residents in 23050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Walter Reed Hospital with a distance of 7.88 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dutton, Virginia (ZIP Code 23050)

The journey to healthcare, especially for something as critical as breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, can be a significant hurdle. For residents of Dutton, Virginia (ZIP Code 23050), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative **transportation** methods, all crucial elements of **healthcare access**. We'll explore these aspects to help individuals, particularly those considering **moving to Dutton**, understand the practical realities of accessing potentially life-saving care.

Dutton, a charming locale nestled in Gloucester County, offers a peaceful lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical services. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these challenges and provide a clearer picture of the resources available to residents.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

For breast cancer care, timely access to specialists and treatment centers is vital. The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Dutton are Route 17 and Route 14. Route 17, the main north-south thoroughfare, provides access to larger medical facilities. Route 14, running east-west, offers connections to smaller clinics and local resources.

The drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers is a key metric. Depending on traffic, a trip to Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester can take approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 17. This facility offers a range of cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Further afield, the drive to larger hospitals in Newport News, such as Mary Immaculate Hospital, which is also a Riverside facility, or the Sentara Careplex Hospital, can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions on Route 17 and Interstate 64. These facilities offer more specialized services, including surgical oncology and clinical trials.

Traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours, can significantly impact these drive times. Residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments or seeking urgent care. The absence of significant public transit options underscores the reliance on personal vehicles for medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Unfortunately, the public **transportation** options in and around Dutton are extremely limited. There is no dedicated bus service that directly connects Dutton to major medical facilities. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive.

While there are some regional options, they are not designed to cater to medical appointments. Gloucester County does have a limited demand-response service, but its availability and scope are not ideal for frequent trips to cancer centers. This service requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent or time-sensitive medical needs. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any public **transportation** options further compounds the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

In the absence of robust public transit, ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** companies become critical components of the **transportation** ecosystem. Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by MedRide or Firstat Nursing Services, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing and may require advance booking.

**The Breast Cancer Score Considerations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Dutton, 23050, is inherently affected by the limited **transportation** options. The score reflects the following:

* **Drive time accessibility:** The relatively short drive times to Riverside Walter Reed Hospital are a positive factor. However, the longer drive times to larger facilities in Newport News are a concern.
* **Public transit limitations:** The lack of reliable public transit significantly reduces the **healthcare access** score.
* **Ride-share and medical transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides some relief, but the cost and availability remain potential challenges.
* **Overall accessibility:** The overall score is moderate, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs for anyone affected by breast cancer.

**Moving to Dutton and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering **moving to Dutton**, understanding these **transportation** dynamics is essential. Prospective residents, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions or those at higher risk for breast cancer, should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and resources.

Considerations include:

* **Vehicle ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost a necessity for accessing medical care.
* **Proximity to healthcare:** Evaluate the proximity to local clinics and hospitals.
* **Financial planning:** Budget for the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.
* **Support networks:** Identify potential support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can assist with **transportation** needs.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the **transportation** landscape in Dutton, Virginia, for breast cancer care requires careful planning and resourcefulness. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods present challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding these factors and planning accordingly. For those considering **moving to Dutton**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs is crucial to ensure timely and convenient access to potentially life-saving medical care. This is a crucial element in ensuring the best possible outcomes for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis.