24224, Castlewood, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24224, Castlewood, Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.74 percent of residents in 24224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Smyth County Community Hospital with a distance of 2.47 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Castlewood (ZIP Code 24224)

The diagnosis of breast cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Castlewood, Virginia (ZIP Code 24224), the journey to healthcare, specifically for breast cancer treatment and diagnosis, is a crucial consideration. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, evaluating the accessibility of necessary medical services. This score considers transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on timely access to critical healthcare. Understanding these complexities is paramount for residents, especially those newly considering moving to Castlewood.

Castlewood, nestled in Russell County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural landscape dictates that transportation plays a central role in determining the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This is particularly true for breast cancer care, which often involves frequent appointments for imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up visits.

The primary driver of healthcare access for most Castlewood residents is the personal vehicle. The primary artery for travel is **US Route 58**, which runs east-west, connecting Castlewood to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is available. Driving east on Route 58 provides access to the **Bristol Regional Medical Center** in Bristol, Virginia, a facility that offers comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. The drive time to Bristol from Castlewood is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within Castlewood.

Another critical route is **State Route 72**, which intersects with Route 58. This route offers a more direct path north towards Lebanon, Virginia, where residents can find access to primary care physicians and some specialized medical services. While Lebanon might not offer the same level of specialized cancer care as Bristol, it can serve as a crucial hub for initial screenings and referrals.

The road network within Castlewood itself is composed of a mix of paved and unpaved roads. Navigating these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can add to travel times and potentially hinder healthcare access. The condition of these local roads, along with the distance to major medical centers, is a significant factor in the overall Breast Cancer Score.

Public transportation options in Castlewood are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a considerable hurdle for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. This limitation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it restricts access for a vulnerable population.

While there is no dedicated public bus service within Russell County, residents may be able to utilize the **Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Inc. (MEOC)**, a non-profit organization that provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. MEOC operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service may offer transportation to medical appointments, but availability and scheduling constraints can present challenges. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of MEOC vehicles is a crucial consideration, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bristol and Abingdon areas, but their presence in Castlewood is inconsistent. The availability of these services is heavily dependent on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive, further impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for frequent appointments, can be a significant financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer another option. Companies like **First Medical Transportation** and **Care Ride** operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than personal transportation. However, they offer a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation. The availability and cost of these services are critical factors in the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Castlewood, Virginia, is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized medical facilities. The absence of readily available ride-sharing services further exacerbates the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Castlewood, a thorough understanding of these transportation limitations is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their ability to drive or access alternative transportation options. The availability of support networks, such as family and friends who can provide transportation, can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score for an individual.

The healthcare landscape in Castlewood, like many rural areas, requires proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available resources, including MEOC, medical transportation services, and the location of healthcare facilities. The ability to navigate these complexities directly impacts the timely access to potentially life-saving breast cancer care.

The Breast Cancer Score can be improved by advocating for increased public transportation options, supporting initiatives that improve road conditions, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to ensure greater availability in the area. Raising awareness of the challenges and advocating for solutions is vital to ensuring that all Castlewood residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score reflects the reality of healthcare access in a rural environment. It is a call to action, highlighting the need for innovative solutions and community support to ensure that residents of Castlewood have the best possible chance of surviving and thriving in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis. Careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is essential for anyone moving to Castlewood, and those already residing there.