23874, Newsoms, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23874, Newsoms, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.31 percent of residents in 23874 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.69 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Newsoms, Virginia (ZIP Code 23874)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is a complex one. For those contemplating a move to Newsoms, Virginia (ZIP Code 23874), understanding the landscape of breast cancer care is paramount. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the ease of transportation and the availability of essential medical services, painting a picture of healthcare access within and beyond the ZIP code. This score isn't a numerical rating but a narrative exploration, designed to inform prospective residents about the realities of accessing potentially life-saving care.

Newsoms, a rural community nestled in Southampton County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The very nature of its location dictates a reliance on transportation. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, places significant weight on the efficiency and availability of *transportation* options to medical facilities specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**The Road to Care: Drive Times and Highways**

The primary mode of *transportation* for most Newsoms residents will be personal vehicles. The major arteries for accessing healthcare are US Route 58, a vital east-west corridor, and Virginia Route 35, which provides north-south connectivity. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are critical considerations.

The closest hospital with a comprehensive cancer center, including breast cancer services, is Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, Virginia. The drive, primarily via US Route 58 East, typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This journey necessitates a reliable vehicle and the ability to navigate potentially congested roadways.

Another option, though farther, is Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News. This hospital offers a full range of cancer services. The drive, involving US Route 58 East and eventually Interstate 64 East, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, a significant time commitment.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, including advanced imaging and surgical options, the drive to larger medical centers in the Richmond area might be necessary. This trip, involving US Route 58 East and Interstate 95 North, can easily exceed 2 hours, highlighting the potential for considerable travel time in pursuit of specialized medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Newsoms and the surrounding areas are limited. Southampton County does not have a robust public transit system. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

While there might be limited demand-response services offered by the county or neighboring jurisdictions, these typically require advance booking and are primarily designed for essential trips, such as medical appointments. These services may or may not have features for ADA accessibility, requiring confirmation.

The absence of frequent, reliable public transit underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative *transportation* solutions for accessing healthcare. This scarcity is a key factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score, emphasizing the challenges faced by individuals without personal *transportation*.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability in Newsoms and surrounding rural areas can be inconsistent. Ride availability might be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a challenge for scheduling timely medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers may operate in the area. These services often provide door-to-door *transportation*, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, further impacting healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the role of ride-sharing and medical *transportation*, recognizing their potential to mitigate the challenges posed by limited public transit and long drive times. However, the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**

Beyond *transportation*, the Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of essential healthcare services within and around Newsoms. The presence of primary care physicians, who can provide initial screenings and referrals, is crucial. The proximity of imaging centers for mammograms and other diagnostic tests is also a key factor.

The availability of oncology specialists, surgeons, and radiation therapists within a reasonable distance is essential for comprehensive breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score recognizes that the journey to healthcare involves not only *transportation* but also the availability of skilled medical professionals and advanced treatment options.

**Moving to Newsoms: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering *moving to Newsoms*, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is vital. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of reliable *transportation*, the limitations of public transit, and the potential role of ride-sharing and medical *transportation*.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to drive or secure alternative *transportation* to medical facilities. They should also research the availability of primary care physicians, imaging centers, and specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance.

The Breast Cancer Score is not intended to discourage a move to Newsoms but rather to provide a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape. By acknowledging the challenges and opportunities, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require.

**Conclusion: A Holistic View**

The Breast Cancer Score for Newsoms, Virginia, is not a simple metric. It is a multifaceted assessment that considers *transportation* as a primary determinant of healthcare access. The score emphasizes the importance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the role of ride-sharing and medical *transportation*. It also underscores the need to evaluate the availability of healthcare services within and beyond the ZIP code.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score aims to empower prospective residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By understanding the realities of *transportation* and healthcare access in Newsoms, individuals can proactively plan for their medical care and ensure they have the support they need to navigate the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This understanding is crucial for anyone considering *moving to Newsoms* and seeking to prioritize their health and well-being.