23508, Norfolk, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23508, Norfolk, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.88 percent of residents in 23508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Medical Group with a distance of 1.74 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 23508

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, can be a daunting one. For residents of ZIP code 23508 in Norfolk, Virginia, understanding the nuances of transportation options becomes paramount. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately offering a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical appointments. Considering a move to Norfolk? This analysis provides crucial insights into the realities of navigating healthcare within this specific area.

ZIP code 23508 encompasses a significant portion of Norfolk, encompassing neighborhoods like Ghent, Freemason, and parts of downtown. This central location offers a variety of healthcare facilities, but accessibility hinges on effective transportation. The primary arteries for vehicular travel include Interstate 264, Interstate 64, and the major thoroughfares of Brambleton Avenue, Granby Street, and Hampton Boulevard. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.

Drive times to key healthcare providers within the region vary depending on the specific location within 23508 and the destination. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, is often accessible within 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the starting point within the ZIP code. EVMS (Eastern Virginia Medical School) and its associated clinics, also crucial for cancer care, typically fall within a similar timeframe. However, travel to facilities located further west, such as Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center, might extend the drive time to 20-30 minutes, again influenced by traffic flow.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus service throughout the area. Several routes serve 23508, including the 1, 2, 4, and 9 lines, which connect to major medical facilities. The 1 and 2 lines run along Granby Street and Brambleton Avenue, respectively, offering direct access to downtown medical centers. The 4 and 9 lines, traversing Hampton Boulevard, provide access to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and EVMS.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. HRT operates a fleet of buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. Additionally, the HRT website and mobile app provide real-time tracking of buses, allowing riders to plan their journeys effectively. However, navigating public transit can still pose challenges, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment who may experience fatigue or other physical limitations. The frequency of bus service, especially during evenings and weekends, can also impact the convenience of public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times and offering door-to-door service. The availability of these services is generally good within 23508, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. For individuals with limited financial resources, the expense of ride-sharing can become a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers, offer transportation for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing.

Now, let's synthesize this information into a "Breast Cancer Score." This score is a subjective assessment of the ease with which residents of 23508 can access breast cancer-related healthcare. We will consider the following factors: drive times, public transit accessibility, ADA compliance, ride-sharing availability, and the availability of medical transport services.

**Scoring Criteria:**

* **Drive Times:** Shorter drive times to major cancer centers (under 15 minutes) contribute positively.
* **Public Transit:** Frequent and reliable bus service with ADA accessibility enhances the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services are considered.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of medical transport services are factored in.

**Breast Cancer Score for 23508:**

Considering the factors outlined above, 23508 receives a moderate "Breast Cancer Score." The central location and proximity to major medical facilities provide a foundation for reasonable healthcare access. However, the reliance on vehicular traffic, potential for traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transit during off-peak hours introduce challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers additional options, but their cost can be a barrier for some.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When choosing a residence within 23508, consider proximity to major medical facilities and access to major thoroughfares like Brambleton Avenue or Granby Street.
* **Explore Public Transit:** Familiarize yourself with HRT bus routes and schedules. Utilize the HRT website or mobile app for real-time tracking and trip planning.
* **Utilize Ride-Sharing Wisely:** Consider ride-sharing services for appointments, but be mindful of potential surge pricing and budget accordingly.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Options:** Research medical transport providers and understand their services and costs.
* **Advocate for Improved Transit:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transportation, including increased frequency, extended hours, and enhanced ADA accessibility.

In conclusion, while 23508 offers reasonable healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. By considering drive times, exploring public transit options, and utilizing ride-sharing and medical transport services when needed, residents can navigate the journey to healthcare with greater ease. For those considering moving to Norfolk, this analysis provides essential insights into the realities of accessing healthcare within this specific ZIP code. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making when facing the challenges of breast cancer and the critical role of transportation in achieving optimal healthcare outcomes.