23607, Newport News, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23607, Newport News, Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.62 percent of residents in 23607 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hampton Va Medical Center with a distance of 5.24 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23607**

The quest for timely and accessible breast cancer care is a journey, often complicated by the realities of transportation. For residents of Newport News, Virginia, specifically within the 23607 ZIP code, understanding the nuances of getting to and from appointments is crucial. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment to help navigate healthcare access.

The 23607 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Newport News, a city rich in history and community. However, the geographical spread necessitates careful consideration of transportation. The “Breast Cancer Score” isn’t a numerical value, but rather an evaluation of the available transportation infrastructure and its suitability for individuals facing breast cancer diagnoses and treatment. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options.

**Driving the Landscape: Highways and Roads**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The major artery traversing 23607 is Interstate 64 (I-64), a critical east-west corridor. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the destination, travel times to healthcare facilities can vary. Driving from the northern part of 23607 to Riverside Regional Medical Center, for example, might take 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

Another important route is Warwick Boulevard (Route 60), a major north-south thoroughfare. It provides access to numerous medical offices and facilities. Travel times along Warwick Boulevard can fluctuate significantly, especially during peak hours. Expect potential delays, especially near the intersection with J. Clyde Morris Boulevard.

Other roads like Jefferson Avenue and Mercury Boulevard also offer access to healthcare providers. However, these roads are often congested, and the "Breast Cancer Score" will reflect this reality. The efficiency of driving is directly tied to traffic conditions, making it essential to factor in potential delays when planning appointments.

**Public Transit: A Balancing Act**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation within Newport News. Several bus routes serve the 23607 area, offering a potentially cost-effective option for those without personal vehicles. However, the "Breast Cancer Score" must acknowledge the limitations.

Bus routes, while available, may not always align perfectly with appointment schedules. Transfers can add significant travel time, potentially increasing the overall journey to an hour or more, depending on the destination and the route. The frequency of buses can also be a concern, particularly during evenings and weekends.

HRT does offer ADA-accessible buses, providing ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial element in the "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, as it ensures that public transit is a viable option for those with mobility limitations. However, the availability of ADA-accessible services should be verified with HRT directly before relying on this mode of transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Convenience at a Cost**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Newport News, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The "Breast Cancer Score" recognizes the benefits of ride-sharing: on-demand transportation, door-to-door service, and the potential for reduced stress compared to driving.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor. The expense of multiple trips to and from appointments can quickly accumulate. Furthermore, ride availability can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with mobility. The "Breast Cancer Score" values the specialized nature of these services, recognizing their importance for individuals with specific needs.

Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers offer medical transportation in the Newport News area. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the ease of booking, the availability of services, and the overall cost when evaluating medical transportation options.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Breast Cancer Score" ultimately reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. The proximity of healthcare facilities, such as Riverside Regional Medical Center and the Mary Immaculate Hospital, is a positive factor. However, the challenges of transportation can still impede access, particularly for individuals facing treatment regimens that require frequent appointments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" encourages residents to consider all available options, from driving and public transit to ride-sharing and medical transportation. It emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, considering traffic conditions, and factoring in potential delays.

**Moving to Newport News: A Transportation Perspective**

For those considering a move to Newport News, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable perspective. It highlights the importance of assessing transportation options when choosing a location. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services should all be considered.

The 23607 ZIP code offers a variety of housing options, but the transportation landscape can vary significantly depending on the specific location. The "Breast Cancer Score" encourages prospective residents to research transportation options thoroughly before making a decision.

**Conclusion: A Score for Informed Decisions**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive rating, but rather a framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within the 23607 ZIP code. By considering drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of transportation and ensure timely and accessible breast cancer care. This is especially crucial for those who are moving to Newport News, as it will influence their healthcare access.