23138, Port Haywood, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23138, Port Haywood, Virginia is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.43 percent of residents in 23138 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Walter Reed Hospital with a distance of 14.28 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23138

The journey to quality healthcare is a complex one, especially when battling a disease like breast cancer. For residents of ZIP Code 23138, encompassing the charming community of Port Haywood, Virginia, this journey involves navigating the landscape of **transportation** options. Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area means understanding the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities, factoring in commute times, public transit availability, and alternative **transportation** solutions. This analysis is crucial for anyone **moving to Port Haywood**, as it directly impacts their **healthcare access**.

The primary artery serving 23138 is Route 17, a vital north-south thoroughfare. Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, such as those in Newport News or Williamsburg, requires careful consideration. During peak hours, the drive along Route 17 can easily exceed an hour, particularly during the summer months when tourist traffic swells. This increased travel time impacts the ability to attend timely appointments, receive urgent care, and access support services.

For those seeking to avoid the congestion of Route 17, alternative routes are available. Route 640, also known as Ware Neck Road, offers a more scenic, albeit slower, alternative, especially if you are headed to Gloucester. However, the winding nature of these roads and their lack of dedicated bike lanes or sidewalks present challenges for those with mobility limitations or those relying on non-motorized **transportation**.

Public **transportation** options in 23138 are limited. The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) doesn’t extend its services into this area, meaning residents are largely reliant on personal vehicles. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals who are unable to drive, lack access to a car, or are undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to operate a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential solution for those needing **transportation**. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural locations. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can also be a significant financial burden, adding to the stress of a cancer diagnosis.

Medical **transportation** services provide specialized assistance for patients needing to travel to appointments. Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, but their availability and coverage area must be verified. These services often require advance booking and may have limitations based on insurance coverage or patient needs.

**Healthcare access** also depends on the location of medical facilities. The Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester offers some basic services, but more specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, often require travel to larger hospitals in Newport News or Richmond. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of **transportation** to ensure patients receive the appropriate level of care.

The Breast Cancer Score for 23138, therefore, is not a simple calculation. It is a nuanced assessment that considers the interplay of factors. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit. This situation can be particularly difficult for individuals undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects that make driving challenging.

The lack of easily accessible public **transportation** also presents challenges for those who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, as well as increased social isolation.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a potential solution, but their cost and reliability can be significant barriers. Medical **transportation** services provide a valuable option, but their availability and coverage area need to be carefully assessed.

For anyone **moving to Port Haywood** and considering their **healthcare access**, it is crucial to factor in these **transportation** challenges. Researching the availability of medical services, exploring alternative **transportation** options, and developing a comprehensive **transportation** plan are essential steps.

The Breast Cancer Score for 23138 highlights the need for improved **transportation** infrastructure and services. Increased public transit options, particularly those with ADA accessibility, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for residents. Expanding the availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** options would also provide valuable support.

Furthermore, promoting community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling networks, can help address the **transportation** challenges faced by breast cancer patients. These initiatives can provide a lifeline for those who need assistance getting to appointments and receiving care.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just about numbers; it is about the quality of life. It is about ensuring that every individual, regardless of their location, has the ability to access the care they need to fight this disease. In 23138, improving **transportation** options is a critical step in ensuring that residents have the best possible chance of surviving and thriving.