23707, Portsmouth, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23707, Portsmouth, Virginia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 23707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center with a distance of 0.21 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23707**

The journey to timely breast cancer care in Portsmouth, Virginia, ZIP code 23707, is a complex equation. Factors beyond the disease itself – the availability and accessibility of transportation, the distance to specialized medical facilities, and the efficiency of navigating the local infrastructure – all play a crucial role in a patient's prognosis and overall well-being. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for 23707, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for those facing this formidable disease.

Understanding the transportation environment is paramount. The ability to reach diagnostic appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation treatments, and follow-up care is a fundamental aspect of successful treatment. For residents of 23707, a mix of private vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services comprise the available transportation options. The efficiency and reliability of these options directly influence the Breast Cancer Score, impacting the overall quality of life for individuals fighting this illness.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

For many in 23707, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical element of the Breast Cancer Score. The major thoroughfare serving the area is Interstate 264, which connects Portsmouth to neighboring cities like Norfolk and Chesapeake. Travel to Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk via I-664 and US-17 can take approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Accessing specialized cancer centers like the EVMS Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Center in Norfolk requires navigating I-264. Drive times to this facility can range from 20-40 minutes, again contingent on traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. These times can be significantly extended by accidents, construction, or inclement weather, adding stress and potentially delaying crucial treatments.

Local roads like Portsmouth Boulevard, Airline Boulevard, and Frederick Boulevard provide alternative routes, but they often encounter stop-and-go traffic, especially during rush hour. These roads can be useful for reaching local medical offices and smaller clinics, but they may not always be the most efficient options for accessing larger cancer centers. The Breast Cancer Score takes into account the potential for these delays and the resulting impact on a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment schedule.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offers public transportation options in 23707. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 1, 2, 3, and 4, which provide connections to medical facilities and other destinations. However, public transit presents its own set of challenges.

Bus schedules may not always align with appointment times, and the frequency of service can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. The Breast Cancer Score considers these factors, acknowledging the potential for extended travel times and the associated inconvenience.

HRT strives to provide accessible services, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing cancer treatment. ADA-compliant features are a vital consideration, ensuring that patients with mobility limitations can utilize public transportation. However, the availability of accessible services does not eliminate the potential for extended travel times and the need for careful planning.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide an alternative transportation option in 23707. These services offer door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden for patients, especially those undergoing prolonged treatment. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained drivers who can assist with mobility needs. While medical transport can offer a more comfortable and convenient option, it can also be expensive and may require advance booking. The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability and cost of medical transportation services in 23707.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for 23707 is not a single number but a composite evaluation. It considers the following factors: drive times to major cancer centers, the availability and frequency of public transit routes, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

The score also takes into account the potential for delays due to traffic congestion, accidents, and weather conditions. Furthermore, it considers the financial burden associated with transportation costs and the impact of transportation challenges on a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment schedule.

The Breast Cancer Score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape in 23707 and its impact on healthcare access for breast cancer patients. It is a tool for individuals considering moving to Portsmouth, allowing them to assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities before making a decision.

**Improving Healthcare Access: Recommendations**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for 23707, several strategies could be implemented. Enhancing public transit services, including increasing the frequency of bus routes and extending service hours, would be beneficial. Expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing options or offering subsidized transportation programs for cancer patients could also help.

Investing in traffic management systems to reduce congestion on major roadways would further improve drive times. Promoting awareness of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to patients in need could also make a significant difference.

By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients in 23707, leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life. A proactive approach, focusing on the needs of those battling this disease, is essential for creating a supportive and accessible healthcare environment.