23608, Newport News, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23608, Newport News, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.26 percent of residents in 23608 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Immaculate Hospital with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

Here's a draft of a "Breast Cancer Score" write-up tailored for ZIP code 23608, focusing on transportation and healthcare access, with the requested specifications:

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23608**

Considering a move to Newport News, Virginia, and particularly the 23608 ZIP code? Beyond the allure of coastal living, a crucial aspect of any relocation, especially for those prioritizing healthcare, is understanding the ease of access to medical facilities. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a detailed analysis of transportation options available to residents of 23608, specifically focusing on access to breast cancer screening and treatment centers. This is a vital consideration for anyone, but particularly for those with a family history or personal concerns regarding breast health. The goal is to illuminate the practicalities of getting to vital appointments, ensuring informed decision-making.

The 23608 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Newport News, offers a range of transportation possibilities, each impacting healthcare access differently. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 64 (I-64) and Jefferson Avenue. These routes provide direct access to major medical centers, but traffic conditions and distance significantly influence travel times.

Driving to healthcare appointments is often the most convenient option for many. From the heart of 23608, a drive to Riverside Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route involves navigating Jefferson Avenue and then turning onto J Clyde Morris Boulevard. Alternatively, I-64 offers a faster, but sometimes more congested, route. The commute to Sentara Careplex Hospital in Hampton, another significant medical facility, generally takes around 20 to 30 minutes, utilizing I-64 East. It's crucial to factor in rush hour congestion, particularly along Jefferson Avenue and near the I-64 interchanges.

Public transportation, offered by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), presents an alternative. The primary bus routes serving 23608 include the 101, 105, and 112. These routes provide access to various points within Newport News and connections to other transit lines. However, the frequency of buses and the potential for longer travel times must be considered. For instance, a bus ride to Riverside Regional Medical Center might take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, including potential transfer times. HRT buses are designed to be ADA-accessible, offering ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the reliability of the service should be verified directly with HRT.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, potentially eliminating the need for personal vehicles or reliance on public transit schedules. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can vary significantly depending on the time of day, demand, and distance. A ride to Riverside Regional Medical Center or Sentara Careplex Hospital could range from $15 to $40, depending on these factors. Always check the app for current pricing and estimated wait times.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, also operate in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. Companies like MedRide and FirstLight Home Care offer specialized medical transportation services. These services often require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing. However, they provide a valuable service for those needing extra support.

When assessing healthcare access, it's essential to consider the specific needs of the individual. For someone requiring frequent appointments or facing mobility challenges, the convenience of driving or utilizing medical transportation services may be paramount. For those comfortable with public transit, the cost savings could be significant.

For those considering a move to Newport News, the 23608 ZIP code presents a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion can impact travel times. Public transit provides a more affordable alternative, but with potentially longer travel times and less flexibility. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenience, but at a higher cost.

The "Breast Cancer Score" in this context is not a numerical value, but a comprehensive assessment of the practicalities of accessing healthcare. The score is influenced by factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transportation services. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

The proximity to major highways, such as I-64, offers both advantages and disadvantages. While providing quick access to medical centers, it also means potential exposure to traffic delays. Jefferson Avenue, a major thoroughfare, serves as a crucial artery for accessing healthcare but is also prone to congestion.

For those with breast cancer concerns, timely access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment is paramount. Therefore, when considering a move to 23608, it's essential to research the specific healthcare providers in the area, their services, and their accessibility via various transportation methods. Contacting HRT to inquire about bus routes and schedules, and checking the availability and pricing of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, is highly recommended.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 23608 highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. By understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments, residents can make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being. This detailed overview provides a foundation for making an informed decision about moving to Newport News and ensuring access to the healthcare services you need.