23603, Newport News, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23603, Newport News, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.52 percent of residents in 23603 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23603**

For those considering a move to Newport News, Virginia, specifically ZIP Code 23603, understanding healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options to medical facilities offering these vital services. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options, painting a vivid picture of healthcare accessibility within this area.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation, weighing the ease and efficiency of getting to essential healthcare appointments. It considers the realities of daily life, from rush-hour traffic to the availability of accessible public transit. This information is crucial for residents and those contemplating a move, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Newport News. ZIP Code 23603 is served by several key roadways. Interstate 64 (I-64) acts as a major east-west artery, providing relatively quick access to medical facilities located further afield. However, peak-hour congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially around the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) during the morning and evening commutes.

Warwick Boulevard (Route 60), a major north-south thoroughfare, offers direct access to many healthcare providers. Driving times along Warwick Boulevard vary depending on traffic flow, which can be heavy during school hours and rush hour. Jefferson Avenue (Route 143) provides another significant route, connecting to medical centers and specialty clinics.

Expect a drive of approximately 10-20 minutes to reach Sentara Careplex Hospital on the north end of Warwick Boulevard, a key facility for breast cancer screening and treatment. Riverside Regional Medical Center, located further south on Warwick Boulevard, might take 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Access to Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, situated near I-64, could range from 10-20 minutes, contingent on the direction of travel and the time of day.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City on Wheels**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation within Newport News. Several bus routes service the 23603 ZIP Code, offering an alternative to driving. The routes most relevant to healthcare access include routes 1, 2, and 3, which run along Warwick Boulevard and Jefferson Avenue, providing access to various medical facilities.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities. However, public transit schedules can be infrequent, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends. This can significantly extend travel times, impacting the convenience of accessing healthcare appointments. Expect a bus ride of 30-60 minutes to reach Sentara Careplex or Riverside Regional Medical Center, depending on the route and transfer times.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: On-Demand Mobility**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation within Newport News. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for individuals who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. Ride-share availability and pricing can fluctuate depending on demand, time of day, and driver availability.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like First Transit or local ambulance services, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door transportation and assistance with mobility. However, medical transport services may require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Score**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 23603 reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from a network of roadways and the presence of ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The accessibility and frequency of public transit routes need improvement to serve the healthcare needs of all residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides a convenient alternative, but their cost can be a barrier for some. Medical transport services offer specialized support, but their cost and booking requirements may not be feasible for all.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

For those considering a move to Newport News, ZIP Code 23603, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options when considering healthcare access. While the area offers multiple avenues for reaching medical facilities, understanding the potential challenges of traffic, public transit schedules, and the cost of ride-sharing is crucial.

The best approach involves a personalized assessment. Consider individual mobility needs, financial resources, and the proximity of healthcare providers to home or work. Exploring the routes of HRT, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transport services are all essential steps.

Moving to Newport News and choosing ZIP Code 23603 requires a thoughtful evaluation of healthcare accessibility. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they can access the vital services they need. This comprehensive understanding empowers individuals to navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and ease.