23452, Virginia Beach, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23452, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.47 percent of residents in 23452 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 4.02 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23452**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for a serious diagnosis like breast cancer, requires a comprehensive understanding of available resources. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 23452 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, assessing the ease of transportation to breast cancer-related healthcare facilities. This 'Breast Cancer Score' considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Virginia Beach. The goal is to illuminate the landscape of transportation options, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

ZIP code 23452, encompassing areas like Kempsville and parts of Great Neck, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The sprawling nature of Virginia Beach necessitates careful consideration of travel times, particularly for appointments requiring punctuality and potentially frequent visits. The availability and accessibility of transportation directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The primary arteries for transportation in 23452 are the major highways and roadways. The ease of access to these routes is crucial for reaching healthcare facilities. Interstate 64 (I-64) serves as the backbone, connecting the area to larger medical centers in Norfolk and Chesapeake. However, rush hour traffic can significantly impact commute times, turning a 20-minute drive into a potentially hour-long ordeal.

Virginia Beach Boulevard, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to several clinics and medical offices. However, its frequent stoplights and heavy traffic volume can also extend travel times. Independence Boulevard offers another vital route, connecting residents to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and other medical facilities. The strategic location of these roads is a boon, but reliance on personal vehicles brings challenges.

The drive to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital from central 23452 averages around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, this can easily double. The drive to Norfolk's medical facilities, such as the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital or the EVMS Breast Cancer Center, typically takes 30-45 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions on I-64. The distance factor necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing treatment requiring frequent visits.

**Public Transportation: A Detailed Assessment**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation services within Virginia Beach. Several bus routes traverse 23452, offering potential access to healthcare facilities. Route 20, for example, travels along Virginia Beach Boulevard, connecting to several medical offices and hospitals. Route 22 serves the Kempsville area, providing access to clinics and pharmacies.

The availability of public transportation is a critical factor in healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. HRT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, bus schedules and frequency can pose challenges.

The frequency of bus service varies depending on the route and time of day. During peak hours, buses typically run more frequently, but service can be less frequent during evenings and weekends. This can make it difficult to schedule appointments, particularly those that fall outside of regular business hours. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is often significantly longer than driving, requiring patients to allocate additional time for their commutes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to schedule rides to and from medical appointments. The convenience of ride-sharing is a significant advantage, particularly for those who may not have access to other forms of transportation.

However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. The availability of drivers can also be a concern, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited service. The cost of transportation can become a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for low-income individuals.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and First Transit, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, ensuring that patients are picked up and dropped off directly at their destination. Medical transportation services are often equipped to handle patients with mobility limitations or other special needs.

The cost of medical transportation services can vary, depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific service provider. However, these services can provide a valuable alternative for individuals who are unable to drive or who require assistance with transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 23452 is not solely determined by transportation options. The availability of breast cancer specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centers within the area also plays a crucial role. Proximity to these resources significantly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely and comprehensive care.

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and the adjacent Sentara Princess Anne Hospital provide comprehensive breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Furthermore, the proximity to medical facilities in Norfolk expands the available options. However, navigating the transportation landscape remains a crucial factor in ensuring access to these resources.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for 23452 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a range of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, particularly on major highways like I-64, can significantly impact commute times. Public transit, while offering accessibility, may require longer travel times and limited schedules.

Ride-sharing services provide convenience but can be costly. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but also come with associated costs. The availability of healthcare facilities within the area, particularly the Sentara hospitals, is a significant advantage.

For individuals considering moving to Virginia Beach or for current residents, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Planning for potential delays, exploring public transit routes, and understanding the costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation services are crucial steps. The goal is to ensure that all residents of 23452 have equitable access to the vital healthcare they need, particularly when facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. The overall score underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the transportation landscape to ensure timely and consistent healthcare access.