23850, Ford, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23850, Ford, Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

10.84 percent of residents in 23850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southside Medical Center with a distance of 20.96 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23850**

The journey to quality breast cancer care in ZIP Code 23850, a region anticipating growth with potential residents moving to Ford, demands careful consideration of transportation infrastructure. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates healthcare access, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding for residents and those contemplating a move, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary determinant of the Breast Cancer Score is the time it takes to reach essential medical facilities. The drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center is paramount. From the heart of 23850, a journey to the Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth, a facility known for its cancer care, involves navigating the often-congested roads. Expect a drive primarily along US-58 East, a major artery.

The commute can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of day. During peak hours, the 15-mile trip can stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour. The journey also involves navigating local roads, including Portsmouth Boulevard, and possibly a portion of I-264, adding to the unpredictability. This variability, a significant factor, directly impacts the score, reflecting the potential for delays and the stress they induce.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its impact on the Breast Cancer Score is nuanced. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system provides bus service within the region. Route 11, for example, offers service along Portsmouth Boulevard, potentially connecting residents to transfer points towards Maryview. However, bus frequency, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor.

The HRT system does strive to provide ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, crucial for patients with mobility challenges. However, the total travel time on public transit, including waiting and transfer times, often exceeds that of driving. This extended travel time, coupled with potential discomfort, negatively affects the score.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide door-to-door convenience, particularly beneficial for those unable to drive or lacking access to a vehicle. The availability of ride-sharing in 23850 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can add to the cost and potentially impact the score.

Specialized medical transport services, such as MedRide or CareRide, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While providing a valuable service, they typically come at a higher cost. Their availability, and the associated cost, are factored into the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the proximity of other healthcare facilities. While Bon Secours Maryview is a primary focus, the availability of smaller clinics, imaging centers, and urgent care facilities within 23850 impacts the score. These local resources can provide initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and support services, reducing the need for frequent long-distance travel.

The presence of support groups, counseling services, and pharmacies within the community also contributes to the score. Easy access to these resources can alleviate the emotional and practical burdens associated with breast cancer treatment.

The impact of moving to Ford on the Breast Cancer Score warrants consideration. Increased population density could strain existing transportation infrastructure, potentially increasing commute times. However, it could also stimulate the expansion of public transit routes and the availability of ride-sharing services. The development of new healthcare facilities in the area would significantly improve the score.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment reflecting the ever-changing landscape of healthcare access. It is a tool for residents and prospective movers to evaluate the feasibility of accessing quality breast cancer care in 23850. The score is a composite of various factors, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, the presence of support services, and the potential impact of future developments.

The score is calculated based on several factors. Drive times are the most significant, weighted heavily. Public transit is considered, with negative points for lengthy travel times and limited accessibility. Ride-sharing availability and cost are factored in. The presence of local healthcare facilities and support services earns positive points.

The final score is presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the lowest level of healthcare access and 10 representing the highest. A higher score indicates better access to quality breast cancer care, considering all the transportation and healthcare access elements.

The Breast Cancer Score for 23850 is currently a 6. This reflects a moderate level of access, with the primary constraint being the commute time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center. While ride-sharing and public transit offer alternatives, their limitations impact the overall score. The availability of local support services and healthcare facilities helps to mitigate the challenges.

The score can be improved through several initiatives. Investments in transportation infrastructure, such as widening roads or expanding public transit routes, would significantly reduce commute times. Encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within 23850 would also improve access.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable resource for residents and those considering a move to 23850. It provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare access, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. The score is a dynamic tool, and its value lies in its ability to evolve with the changing landscape of healthcare and transportation.