23669, Hampton, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23669, Hampton, Virginia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.05 percent of residents in 23669 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hampton Va Medical Center with a distance of 1.58 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23669, Hampton, Virginia

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex undertaking. The physical and emotional toll of treatment is compounded by logistical hurdles, especially concerning transportation. This write-up assesses the accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of ZIP code 23669 in Hampton, Virginia, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, aiming to illuminate the realities of healthcare access for those considering **moving to Hampton**.

Our analysis focuses on key medical facilities within a reasonable radius, including Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Riverside Regional Medical Center, and the Hampton VA Medical Center, all offering varying levels of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. These facilities, while providing comprehensive care, are not always easily accessible, particularly for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility challenges.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of **transportation** for many in 23669 is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this option significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score. Navigating the Hampton Roads area relies heavily on a network of highways and roads.

Accessing Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located just north of 23669, involves a relatively straightforward drive. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, residents can utilize Mercury Boulevard, a major thoroughfare, and then connect to I-64. Drive times typically range from 10 to 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, rush hour congestion, especially on I-64, can significantly extend these times, impacting the overall score.

Riverside Regional Medical Center, situated across the James River in Newport News, necessitates a longer commute. The most direct route involves crossing the James River Bridge via I-664, a toll bridge. Drive times can vary from 20 to 40 minutes, again depending on traffic conditions. The potential for delays, especially during peak hours or in the event of an accident, is a crucial factor in evaluating **healthcare access**.

The Hampton VA Medical Center, located within the city of Hampton, is generally accessible via Mercury Boulevard or I-64. Drive times are usually within the 15-to-25-minute range. However, the proximity of the VA Medical Center does not automatically translate to ease of access; parking availability and internal navigation within the facility can present their own challenges.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of Hampton Roads Transit**

For those without personal vehicles, public **transportation** becomes a critical lifeline. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services throughout the region, but its effectiveness in facilitating **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients is variable.

Several HRT routes serve the 23669 area, including routes 110, 111, and 112. These routes offer connections to major medical facilities, but travel times are considerably longer than driving. A bus trip to Sentara CarePlex Hospital could take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, including transfer times. The same journey to Riverside Regional Medical Center could extend to over an hour and a half, making it a physically and emotionally demanding undertaking.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect of HRT. All HRT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment often require frequent appointments, and the infrequent schedules of certain routes can create significant logistical challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. These services are readily available in the Hampton Roads area, including 23669. However, the cost can be a significant barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited incomes.

The availability of ride-sharing also depends on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours, wait times can increase, and surge pricing can further inflate costs. While ride-sharing provides a degree of convenience, it is not a guaranteed solution, and its reliability can be unpredictable.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedRide and Firstat Nursing Services, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable for patients with mobility limitations, they often come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Breast Cancer Score and Considerations**

Based on the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for residents of 23669 is moderate. While drive times to key medical facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a significant disadvantage for those without them. Public transit offers an alternative, but the extended travel times and limited service frequencies pose challenges. Ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, but cost and availability are concerns. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance, but at a higher price point.

For individuals considering **moving to Hampton** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the following factors should be carefully considered:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** While 23669 is relatively close to medical facilities, the variability in drive times due to traffic should be acknowledged.
* **Access to Reliable Transportation:** Assess the availability of personal vehicles, the feasibility of using public transit, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.
* **Support System:** The availability of family, friends, or caregivers to assist with transportation is critical.
* **Financial Resources:** The costs associated with **transportation**, including gas, tolls, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport fees, can be substantial.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The journey through breast cancer treatment is multifaceted, and **transportation** is a crucial element. While 23669 offers access to medical facilities, the accessibility of these facilities depends on individual circumstances. A comprehensive assessment of **transportation** options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, is essential for ensuring equitable **healthcare access**. By understanding the complexities of the **transportation** landscape, residents of 23669 can navigate the healthcare system more effectively and focus on their well-being. The Breast Cancer Score for this area, while moderate, underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** and support for those facing this challenging diagnosis.