23062, Gloucester Point, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23062, Gloucester Point, Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.08 percent of residents in 23062 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 7.97 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gloucester Point, VA (ZIP Code 23062)

The sun-dappled shores of Gloucester Point, Virginia, offer a tranquil setting for life. Yet, the serenity of this coastal community doesn't shield residents from the realities of healthcare, particularly the complexities of accessing specialized services like breast cancer care. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 23062, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering various transportation options. It’s a critical factor for anyone moving to Gloucester Point.

This score considers drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, specifically for those navigating the challenges of breast cancer. The score aims to help residents and potential newcomers make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Drive Time Deliberations: The Roads to Recovery**

The primary arteries connecting Gloucester Point to regional healthcare hubs are the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, Route 17, and Route 14. These roadways dictate the accessibility of essential medical facilities. The bridge, a vital link, can be a double-edged sword. While offering direct access to the Peninsula, its toll and potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For those seeking breast cancer screening and initial diagnostic services, Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester offers a local option. The drive is typically short, often under 10 minutes, making it a convenient choice for residents. However, for more specialized care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and advanced imaging, patients often need to travel to facilities in Newport News or Williamsburg.

Reaching Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, a common destination for specialized care, involves a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 17. This route can experience delays, particularly during rush hour, impacting access to timely appointments. Similarly, the drive to Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, another major healthcare provider, can take up to an hour or more, especially if the Coleman Bridge is backed up.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Gloucester Point are limited. The primary provider is Gloucester County Public Transportation, offering fixed-route services within the county. However, these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities in Newport News or Williamsburg. This limitation underscores the challenges faced by residents without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations.

While the Gloucester County Public Transportation system strives to be ADA-compliant, providing accessible services for individuals with disabilities, the availability of routes and the frequency of service may pose challenges for those needing frequent medical appointments. The reliance on fixed routes can also necessitate transfers, extending travel times and adding complexity to the journey.

The lack of direct public transit to major cancer centers in the region poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The absence of frequent, reliable public transportation necessitates alternative solutions, such as relying on family, friends, or expensive ride-sharing services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Gloucester Point, providing a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to weather events. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for those needing frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. However, the availability of medical transport services can vary, and the cost can be substantial, potentially limiting access for those with limited financial resources.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport highlights the need for a more robust and accessible transportation infrastructure to support healthcare access in Gloucester Point. This is a critical factor for anyone moving to Gloucester Point.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 23062 reflects the interplay of these factors. While the presence of a local hospital offers convenient access to initial screenings, the need to travel to more specialized centers for advanced care presents challenges. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The score considers drive times, the availability of public transit, and the reliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport options. It also factors in the potential for traffic congestion and the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving landscape of transportation and healthcare access.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Improving healthcare access in Gloucester Point requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, including expanding routes and increasing service frequency, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could alleviate financial burdens.

Advocating for the expansion of healthcare services within Gloucester County, including the establishment of a comprehensive cancer center, would significantly improve access to care. Supporting initiatives that promote early detection and screening, such as mobile mammography units, can further enhance healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Gloucester Point, it is essential to carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess the available transportation options. Understanding the drive times to various healthcare facilities, researching public transportation routes, and exploring ride-sharing and medical transport options are critical steps in ensuring access to timely and appropriate care.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Gloucester Point. It encourages residents and potential newcomers to engage in informed decision-making, advocating for improvements in transportation and healthcare services to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. The well-being of the community depends on it.