23357, Greenbush, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23357, Greenbush, Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.47 percent of residents in 23357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.93 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Greenbush (ZIP Code 23357)**

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate attention and unwavering support. For residents of Greenbush, Virginia (ZIP Code 23357), the journey to healthcare access becomes a critical component of their overall well-being. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to understand the ease with which residents can reach vital medical appointments. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Greenbush, as understanding healthcare accessibility is a crucial factor in making such a life-altering decision.

Greenbush, a community nestled in the heart of the Eastern Shore, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area’s relative isolation, coupled with its reliance on personal vehicles, significantly shapes the healthcare access experience. The Breast Cancer Score considers these factors, providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation options available to individuals seeking diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary artery connecting Greenbush to the broader healthcare network is US-13, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving south on US-13 offers access to healthcare facilities in the towns of Exmore and Nassawadox, each of which have medical offices. The drive to Exmore is relatively short, typically under 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for routine checkups and initial consultations. Nassawadox, further south, may require a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in the cities of Hampton and Norfolk, which are over 100 miles away. The journey to these cities involves navigating US-13, then transitioning onto I-64, a major interstate highway. The drive time to Hampton can range from two to two and a half hours, while Norfolk may take up to three hours, depending on traffic. These extended travel times can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment, requiring frequent visits and potentially causing significant physical and emotional strain.

The condition of the roads, the time of day, and the presence of traffic can all influence these drive times. The Breast Cancer Score considers these variables, recognizing that the transportation experience is not static but rather a dynamic process influenced by external factors.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Greenbush is limited, which poses a significant hurdle for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) offers a demand-response transportation service, providing rides to medical appointments and other essential destinations. However, this service requires advance booking and may have limited availability, especially during peak hours.

The ESAAA service is designed to be ADA-compliant, offering accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial consideration for those undergoing breast cancer treatment, as side effects such as fatigue and mobility issues can make driving difficult or impossible. The service's ADA compliance ensures that individuals with disabilities can access the care they need without facing additional transportation barriers.

The lack of a robust public transit system highlights the importance of exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Greenbush area, offering a convenient alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the reliability of ride-sharing services, taking into account factors such as driver availability, pricing, and wait times.

Medical transportation providers specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Eastern Shore region, including local and regional providers. The Breast Cancer Score evaluates these providers, considering factors such as cost, service area, and the availability of specialized vehicles.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The Breast Cancer Score also takes into account the location of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized services. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, offering a range of diagnostic and treatment options, is a significant advantage. The score also considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and financial assistance programs.

For individuals considering moving to Greenbush, the Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable resource, providing insights into the healthcare access landscape. Understanding the transportation options, the proximity of medical facilities, and the availability of support services is essential for making an informed decision.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Greenbush (ZIP Code 23357) reveals a complex picture of healthcare access. While the community benefits from its proximity to healthcare facilities in nearby towns, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges for some residents. The Breast Cancer Score underscores the importance of planning and preparation, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment or those considering moving to the area. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can proactively address potential barriers and ensure they can access the care they need. The score encourages further exploration of alternative transportation options, the expansion of public transit services, and the continued development of healthcare resources to support the health and well-being of the Greenbush community.