23704, Portsmouth, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23704, Portsmouth, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.26 percent of residents in 23704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Portsmouth with a distance of 1.19 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23704

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is fraught with complexities. Beyond the emotional toll, practical considerations like transportation significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely and effective care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 23704 in Portsmouth, Virginia, aims to illuminate the landscape of transportation options available for individuals facing this challenge, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility and ease of navigating the healthcare system. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Portsmouth or currently residing within the area, particularly those seeking to understand their healthcare access.

The geographic location of 23704, a vibrant community nestled in the heart of Portsmouth, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The city's layout, interwoven with waterways and historical districts, influences the available routes to medical facilities. Understanding these nuances is essential for assessing the ease with which residents can reach critical healthcare services.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. In 23704, the commute to major healthcare providers often hinges on navigating key roadways. The most direct route to Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, a significant regional cancer center, typically involves using **Interstate 264 East** and then transitioning onto **Route 17 South**. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, typically ranging from 20 to 40 minutes, especially during peak hours.

Accessing Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, also a key provider, requires navigating **High Street** and then connecting to **Interstate 264 West**. The drive, generally shorter, averaging 15 to 30 minutes, is still subject to traffic congestion, particularly near the downtown area. The condition of these roads, potential construction, and the overall flow of traffic directly impact the patient's experience and stress levels.

Smaller clinics and specialized practices within Portsmouth, such as those offering radiation therapy or chemotherapy, are often more accessible. However, even these appointments require careful planning, considering parking availability and the physical demands of navigating medical facilities. The ease of driving, parking, and the overall travel time significantly affect a patient’s ability to adhere to their treatment schedule.

**Public Transit: A Balancing Act**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus services within Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. Several routes, including the **Route 20**, **Route 21**, and **Route 23**, offer connections to medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. HRT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges. Patients undergoing treatment often experience fatigue and other physical limitations, making long bus rides, transfers, and walking distances particularly difficult. The effectiveness of public transit in supporting patients depends heavily on the specific route, the individual's physical condition, and the overall efficiency of the system.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand transportation options. These services can be particularly helpful for appointments, especially when family or friends are unavailable. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas, can be unpredictable.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies like Care Ride and MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While these options provide a valuable service, they can be costly and may require advance booking, which may not always align with the immediate needs of a patient. The reliability, cost-effectiveness, and availability of these services are crucial factors in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Assessing the Breast Cancer Score**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 23704 considers the following factors:

* **Drive-Time Accessibility:** The average drive time to major cancer centers and clinics, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, accessibility, and ease of use of HRT bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The availability of Uber and Lyft services, and the associated costs.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and reliability of medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Support Services:** The distance to pharmacies, support groups, and other resources.

Based on these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for 23704 would likely be a moderate rating. While the presence of major cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic congestion present challenges. The availability of medical transportation services and the proximity to support services can mitigate some of these challenges.

**Moving to Portsmouth: A Holistic Perspective**

For those considering moving to Portsmouth, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the city offers a range of healthcare options, the accessibility of these options varies. Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances, including their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their financial resources.

The presence of support services, such as cancer support groups and pharmacies, can also influence the overall quality of life for patients. Researching the availability of these resources in the 23704 area is an essential step in making an informed decision. The ability to easily access these support services can significantly impact a patient’s emotional well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Accessing healthcare in 23704, particularly for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, requires a multifaceted approach. The combination of personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services creates a complex transportation ecosystem. While challenges exist, particularly in terms of traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit, the availability of various options provides a degree of flexibility.

By carefully considering the factors outlined in this analysis, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. Understanding the transportation landscape is not just about getting to appointments; it is about empowering patients to navigate the healthcare system with greater ease and confidence, ultimately improving their overall quality of life during a challenging time. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this crucial assessment, highlighting the importance of transportation as a key component of healthcare access in the 23704 ZIP code.