23523, Norfolk, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23523, Norfolk, Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.10 percent of residents in 23523 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc with a distance of 2.68 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 23523**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 23523, aims to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score,' a composite metric reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options. The goal is to inform individuals considering moving to Norfolk, particularly those with existing or potential health concerns, about the realities of healthcare access in their prospective community.

The cornerstone of this assessment is drive time. In 23523, a predominantly residential area, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Interstate 64 (I-64), Interstate 264 (I-264), and a network of local roads including North Military Highway, Virginia Beach Boulevard, and Newtown Road. These roadways are subject to the ebb and flow of traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. Drive times to major hospitals, such as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and the EVMS Andrews Research & Education Building, can fluctuate significantly.

During off-peak hours, a drive to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, might take approximately 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily stretch to 30 minutes or more, particularly if traffic bottlenecks occur on I-64 or at major intersections. The EVMS Andrews Research & Education Building, another crucial healthcare destination, is similarly accessible via I-64 and local roads, with comparable drive times. This variability underscores the importance of considering traffic patterns when assessing healthcare access.

Public transit, provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), offers an alternative transportation option. Several bus routes serve the 23523 area, providing access to healthcare facilities. The number 20 bus, for example, runs along North Military Highway, offering a direct route to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. The number 19 bus travels along Virginia Beach Boulevard, connecting to various medical offices and clinics. While public transit offers an affordable alternative, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations.

Bus routes are subject to fixed schedules, which may not align with individual appointments or emergencies. Travel times are generally longer than driving, and transfers between routes can add considerable time to the overall commute. However, HRT strives to provide accessible services, with all buses equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. Careful consideration of route schedules and potential delays is essential when relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation solution. These services provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to adhere to fixed bus schedules. The availability of ride-share services in 23523 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes, depending on demand. Ride-share apps provide the convenience of door-to-door service, a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive.

However, ride-share services can be subject to surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand, potentially increasing the cost of transportation. This cost factor should be considered when assessing the overall affordability of healthcare access. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-share services can be impacted by driver availability, particularly in the early morning or late evening hours.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with medical conditions. These services often provide transportation for patients who require assistance with mobility or those who need specialized medical equipment during transit. While there are several medical transport providers operating in the Norfolk area, including Firstat Nursing Services and American Medical Response, availability and cost can vary.

These services often require advance booking, and the cost is typically higher than ride-share services. However, for individuals with specific medical needs, medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, ensuring safe and reliable transportation to and from healthcare appointments. The availability of medical transport services is a vital component of the overall healthcare access landscape, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may require specialized care.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 23523 is a composite metric, weighting the various transportation options based on factors such as travel time, cost, and accessibility. Drive times, particularly during peak hours, significantly impact the score, as longer commute times can lead to increased stress and potential delays in receiving timely medical care. The availability and reliability of public transit and ride-share services are also factored in, with a higher score assigned to areas with robust and accessible transportation options. The presence of medical transport services further enhances the score, reflecting the availability of specialized support for individuals with specific medical needs.

When considering moving to Norfolk, prospective residents, especially those with existing or potential health concerns, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available in 23523. Understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and medical transport services is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access. This 'Breast Cancer Score' provides a framework for assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their future living environment.