23884, Sussex, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23884, Sussex, Virginia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 23884 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southside Medical Center with a distance of 18.96 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sussex, Virginia (ZIP Code 23884)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is multifaceted. It encompasses not just the quality of medical professionals but also the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. For residents of Sussex, Virginia (ZIP code 23884), this landscape presents unique challenges and opportunities. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer care within and around this rural community, considering factors from drive times to public transit, ultimately informing those *moving to Sussex* or seeking care in the area.

Sussex County, a predominantly agricultural region, is characterized by its sparse population and geographical expanse. This immediately impacts *transportation* options. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The primary arteries for traversing this landscape are US-460 and US-301. These highways, while offering relatively direct routes, are subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours and around major intersections.

Drive times to major healthcare facilities vary considerably. The Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, a facility with a dedicated cancer center, is approximately a 1-hour 15-minute drive via US-460 E. The drive, while manageable, can be stressful, especially for patients undergoing treatment. The Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Massey Cancer Center in Richmond, a highly regarded institution, is a significantly longer journey, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via US-460 W and I-95 S. This extended travel time underscores the critical role of reliable *transportation* for patients.

Smaller, more local healthcare providers, such as the Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, may offer some services, potentially reducing travel time for initial consultations or follow-up appointments. However, the range of specialized cancer care available at these facilities may be limited, potentially necessitating referrals to larger centers. The drive to Petersburg is approximately 30 minutes via US-460 E, offering a more accessible option for some.

Public transit options in Sussex County are extremely limited. The primary form of public transit is likely to be the Southside Transportation System, which operates within the region. However, information regarding routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is difficult to find. It is critical to directly contact the Southside Transportation System for specific details regarding routes serving Sussex and their suitability for patients with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability in a rural setting are variable. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with low population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for patients requiring frequent appointments. Patients should investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in advance of any appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or require assistance. However, availability and cost should be carefully considered, as these services may not be covered by all insurance plans. Researching medical transport options prior to a diagnosis is a proactive step.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Sussex, Virginia, reflects the challenges of *healthcare access* in a rural environment. The score is affected by the following: the distance to specialized cancer centers, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation*. The score is impacted by the need for reliable *transportation*, the potential financial burden of travel, and the physical demands of long journeys for patients undergoing treatment.

For individuals *moving to Sussex* or residing there and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, careful planning is essential. This includes identifying the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, researching the availability of medical *transportation* services, and exploring potential financial assistance programs to offset travel costs. It is also crucial to establish a strong support network, including family, friends, and community resources, to assist with *transportation* and other needs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual circumstances and the evolving landscape of healthcare *transportation*. As healthcare providers expand their services and *transportation* options evolve, the score may improve. However, for the present, residents of Sussex, Virginia, must proactively address the challenges of *healthcare access* to ensure timely and effective breast cancer care.