23690, Yorktown, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23690, Yorktown, Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.34 percent of residents in 23690 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Careplex Hospital with a distance of 13.35 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Yorktown, VA (ZIP Code 23690)**

Moving to Yorktown, Virginia, with its serene waters and historic charm, promises a life of tranquility. However, the critical element of healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer, demands careful consideration. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options within ZIP Code 23690, focusing on transportation modalities. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, providing a comprehensive view of navigating healthcare access.

Understanding the local landscape is paramount. Yorktown, nestled within York County, offers a blend of residential areas, historical sites, and commercial zones. The primary roads serving the area are the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, US-17 (George Washington Memorial Highway), and the Colonial Parkway. These routes are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities located in Yorktown and surrounding areas.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The cornerstone of healthcare access for many residents is the personal vehicle. Driving offers the greatest flexibility, allowing individuals to choose their preferred facilities and manage their schedules. However, drive times can fluctuate significantly based on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

For residents in the heart of Yorktown, a drive to Riverside Doctors' Hospital Williamsburg, a major healthcare provider with comprehensive breast cancer services, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via US-17. This route is generally well-maintained, but congestion can occur, particularly near the Coleman Bridge.

Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, another significant healthcare hub, is accessible via US-17, with drive times ranging from 15-25 minutes. This hospital offers specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology and radiation therapy.

For those seeking specialized care, such as advanced imaging or clinical trials, a drive to larger medical centers in Newport News or Norfolk might be necessary. These journeys, however, can extend drive times considerably. The commute to Sentara Careplex Hospital in Hampton, for example, via I-64, can take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Yorktown are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency may not always align with healthcare appointments.

HRT Route 112, which runs along US-17, offers a potential connection to healthcare facilities in Yorktown and Williamsburg. However, the frequency of this route can be infrequent, and direct access to specific medical centers may require transfers. ADA-accessible buses are available on HRT routes, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of a robust public transportation system in Yorktown underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions for those unable to drive. This situation highlights the need for improved public transportation to enhance healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for individuals who cannot drive themselves or prefer not to. Availability and pricing can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

While ride-sharing provides a flexible transportation option, the cost can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. It's crucial to factor these expenses into the overall cost of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and Firstat, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required.

The availability of these services provides a crucial lifeline for individuals facing mobility challenges or requiring specialized transportation assistance. However, careful consideration of costs and scheduling is necessary.

**Evaluating the Breast Cancer Score**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Yorktown, VA (23690) reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to local healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the limitations of public transportation create significant barriers for individuals without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be considered.

The score reflects the interplay of various transportation modalities and their impact on healthcare access. The score is influenced by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and frequency of public transportation, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Recommendations for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Yorktown requires a multi-faceted approach. Strengthening public transportation infrastructure is paramount. Increasing the frequency of HRT routes, expanding service areas, and improving connectivity to healthcare facilities would significantly benefit residents.

Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could facilitate the coordination of appointments and transportation, reducing the burden on patients. Furthermore, exploring subsidies or financial assistance programs for ride-sharing or medical transport services could enhance affordability for vulnerable populations.

**Conclusion**

Navigating healthcare access in Yorktown, VA (23690) requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. While the area offers access to quality healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation and the cost of alternative services pose challenges. By understanding the dynamics of transportation and healthcare access, residents can make informed decisions and advocate for improvements that enhance the overall quality of life in Yorktown, especially for those facing the challenges of breast cancer. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing and improving healthcare access, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate care.