23888, Wakefield, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23888, Wakefield, Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.21 percent of residents in 23888 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital with a distance of 19.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wakefield, Virginia (ZIP Code 23888)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a critical aspect of life in Wakefield, Virginia (ZIP Code 23888). This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services, considering the transportation options available to residents. It aims to provide a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking care in this rural community, guiding individuals considering moving to Wakefield or seeking improved healthcare access.

Wakefield, a small town nestled in southeastern Virginia, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area dictates the transportation options available, significantly influencing the Breast Cancer Score. This score reflects the ease with which individuals can reach essential services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. It weighs factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options.

The primary arteries connecting Wakefield to surrounding medical centers are the major highways. Route 460, a significant east-west thoroughfare, is a crucial connector. Traveling east on Route 460 leads towards Suffolk and the larger medical facilities in the Hampton Roads area. Route 460’s relatively direct path offers a more efficient route than the more winding secondary roads. However, potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, could lengthen drive times.

Route 31, another important road, runs north and south, providing access to areas like Waverly and further connecting to Interstate 95. Interstate 95 offers a faster route to Richmond, the state's capital and home to major medical centers. The drive to Richmond, while potentially faster, requires navigating a major interstate, which can be subject to heavy traffic and potential delays.

The drive times to key healthcare facilities are a central component of the Breast Cancer Score. The closest hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers and breast cancer specialists are in Suffolk, approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive via Route 460. Reaching Richmond, with its more extensive medical resources, could take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions on I-95. These drive times, while manageable, can be significant, especially for frequent appointments, treatments, and emergencies.

Public transportation options in Wakefield are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The primary mode of public transit is the Southside Transportation System (STS), which serves the area. However, the STS’s routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals seeking specialized medical care. Furthermore, the STS's service area is not as extensive as the area covered by ride-sharing services.

The STS offers some routes, but they may have limited service to specific medical facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize public transit. The STS's website or local information should be consulted for the most up-to-date route maps, schedules, and ADA accessibility details. The lack of robust public transportation is a significant factor in lowering the Breast Cancer Score for Wakefield.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. Ride-sharing services can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and the availability of drivers in the Wakefield area.

The reliance on ride-sharing services can also add to the overall cost of healthcare. Frequent trips for appointments and treatments can quickly accumulate significant transportation expenses. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the financial burden associated with accessing healthcare, especially for those with limited incomes or those facing financial challenges due to their diagnosis.

Specialized medical transportation services offer another layer of support. Companies like MedRide and First Medical Transportation specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services may require pre-booking and can come with additional costs.

The availability of medical transportation services can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance during their journey. These services can reduce the stress and burden of traveling to medical appointments, allowing patients to focus on their health and well-being.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of local resources. The presence of support groups, cancer centers, and patient advocacy organizations in or near Wakefield can significantly improve the overall experience for individuals facing breast cancer. These resources provide emotional support, information, and assistance navigating the healthcare system. The absence of these resources can negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

Access to healthcare is a multifaceted challenge in Wakefield, Virginia. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the interplay of transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of support services, and the financial implications of accessing care. While the drive times to major medical centers are manageable, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Wakefield, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. Careful planning, exploring all available options, and utilizing available resources can help navigate the journey to healthcare. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a tool for assessing the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in this rural community. The score should be a call to action, encouraging the community to support initiatives that enhance transportation options, increase access to specialized medical services, and foster a supportive environment for individuals facing breast cancer.