23703, Portsmouth, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23703, Portsmouth, Virginia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.11 percent of residents in 23703 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center with a distance of 3.01 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Portsmouth's 23703

Considering a move to Portsmouth, Virginia, particularly the 23703 ZIP code? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of healthcare access for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative care. This score considers the ease of transportation to critical medical resources, crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. Transportation, a pivotal factor, significantly impacts healthcare access.

The 23703 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Portsmouth, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the city offers a blend of options, navigating the system requires careful consideration, especially for those managing the complexities of breast cancer. The score, therefore, reflects the realistic challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer-related healthcare within this area.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Subjective Assessment**

This score is not a scientific metric but a practical guide, incorporating factors like drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation options. It aims to provide a realistic picture for individuals considering a move or currently residing in 23703. The score considers access to mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and supportive services like physical therapy and counseling.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Portsmouth. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 264 (I-264) and US Route 17 (US-17) are vital for accessing healthcare facilities. Drive times, however, can fluctuate dramatically based on traffic conditions. The 23703 ZIP code's proximity to these routes offers advantages, but rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times.

For example, accessing Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, a regional cancer center, via I-264 and US-17, could take approximately 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during peak commuting times, this could easily extend to 45 minutes or more. Similarly, accessing the Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, closer within Portsmouth, via US-17 or High Street, offers quicker access, typically within 10-15 minutes, barring traffic delays.

The ability to drive oneself is a significant factor. Individuals undergoing treatment may experience fatigue, making driving unsafe or impractical. Therefore, considering alternative transportation becomes crucial.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation within the region. Several bus routes serve the 23703 area, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, the reliability and frequency of these routes are critical considerations.

Route 11, for instance, travels along High Street, connecting to various medical facilities. Route 14 provides access to areas further afield. While HRT strives to offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring the availability of accessible vehicles on specific routes at specific times requires advance planning. Travel times on public transit are significantly longer than driving, often adding 30-60 minutes to the journey.

The complexities of navigating multiple bus routes, especially for appointments, can be challenging. Furthermore, the limited operating hours of some routes might restrict access to early morning appointments or late-afternoon treatments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially alleviating the burden of driving. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, particularly with frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by MedRide or First Transit, are designed specifically for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations. While these services offer a valuable solution, they typically require advance booking and may have limitations in terms of geographic coverage or appointment times.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access is more than just physical transportation. It encompasses factors like appointment availability, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized services. Individuals with breast cancer often require a multidisciplinary approach, including access to surgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff.

The 23703 ZIP code offers access to a range of healthcare providers, but the availability of specific specialists and the wait times for appointments can vary. Researching the proximity of these specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments is crucial.

**Moving to Portsmouth: A Personalized Approach**

Moving to Portsmouth presents a unique set of considerations for individuals concerned about breast cancer healthcare. The Breast Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly.

Before making a move, prospective residents should research the location of healthcare providers, assess the accessibility of transportation options, and consider the potential impact of traffic and public transit schedules. Contacting local healthcare providers and inquiring about appointment availability and wait times is also highly recommended.

**Support Services: A Critical Component**

Beyond medical treatment, access to support services is crucial. These services include support groups, counseling, and physical therapy. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources is essential for comprehensive care.

Organizations like the American Cancer Society and local support groups can provide valuable resources and assistance. These organizations often offer transportation assistance, emotional support, and information about local healthcare providers.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Continuous Evaluation**

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static assessment. It requires continuous evaluation, considering changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, and the evolving needs of individuals facing breast cancer.

By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within the 23703 ZIP code, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and plan for a successful journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The goal is to ensure that transportation does not become a barrier to accessing the critical care needed.