The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24239, Davenport, Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 24239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell County Hospital with a distance of 14.57 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 24239, Davenport, Virginia
Breast Cancer Score | 27 |
---|---|
People Score | 49 |
Provider Score | 41 |
Hospital Score | 44 |
Travel Score | 25 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 24239 | Davenport | Virginia |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.76 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.70 |
2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 40.01 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 38.53 |
Vehicular Access in 24239, Davenport, Virginia
## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Davenport, VA (ZIP Code 24239)
The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like breast cancer, is fraught with emotional and logistical challenges. In the rural heart of ZIP Code 24239, Davenport, Virginia, where the Appalachian Mountains cradle a community, the very act of accessing care demands careful consideration. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to aid residents in their pursuit of timely and effective breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Davenport, ensuring they understand the realities of healthcare access.
Davenport, a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the embrace of nature, presents unique transportation hurdles. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities equipped for breast cancer care are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The Breast Cancer Score considers factors beyond distance, including the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options. It acknowledges the impact of these factors on overall healthcare access and aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
**Roadways and Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**
The primary mode of transportation in and around Davenport is the automobile. The winding roads that snake through the mountains are the arteries of this community. The most direct route to the nearest major medical center, the Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, involves traversing approximately 60 miles. This journey typically requires about an hour and fifteen minutes of driving, primarily along US-58 and then onto I-26. The scenic beauty of the drive, while therapeutic, does not negate the challenges of potential delays.
Alternatively, the Wellmont Cancer Institute at Bristol Regional Medical Center, also in Tennessee, is approximately 45 miles away, reachable via US-58 and US-19. This drive, typically taking around an hour, offers a slightly shorter commute. These times are estimates, of course, and do not account for traffic, weather conditions, or the potential for road closures.
For residents seeking specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, travel to larger cities like Roanoke, Virginia, or Knoxville, Tennessee, might be necessary. Roanoke, approximately 180 miles away, is accessible via US-58 and I-81, requiring a drive of approximately three hours. Knoxville, a similar distance, is reachable via US-58 and I-81, with a comparable travel time.
The condition of the roads is a critical factor. Mountain roads can be susceptible to closures due to inclement weather, such as snow or ice, particularly during the winter months. This can severely impact healthcare access, necessitating careful planning and flexibility.
**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**
Public transportation options in ZIP Code 24239 are exceedingly limited. The rugged terrain and low population density make establishing a robust public transit system challenging. There are no dedicated bus routes that directly serve Davenport or provide regular service to the medical facilities in Kingsport, Bristol, or Roanoke.
This scarcity of public transit is a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or are unable to navigate the long distances involved. For those who rely on public transportation, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the urgent need for expanded transportation services.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Davenport area. While these services may be available, their reliability and affordability are questionable, particularly for regular medical appointments. The availability of drivers can be inconsistent, and the cost of long-distance rides can be prohibitive.
Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedTrans Corporation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often used for patients who require assistance with mobility or are unable to drive themselves. However, they can be expensive and require advance booking.
The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the critical role of these services in bridging the transportation gap. However, the limited availability and cost of these options remain significant concerns.
**The Impact on Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Assessment**
The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 24239 reveals a complex landscape of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for residents seeking breast cancer care. The long distances to medical facilities, combined with the potential for weather-related delays and the cost of transportation, can create barriers to timely screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
This score highlights the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access in Davenport. These might include:
* **Expanding Public Transit:** Exploring the feasibility of establishing a demand-response public transit system or partnering with existing regional transit providers.
* **Supporting Ride-Sharing Initiatives:** Encouraging ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area by offering incentives or partnerships with local healthcare providers.
* **Expanding Medical Transportation Services:** Supporting and subsidizing medical transportation services to ensure affordability and accessibility.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Promoting telehealth services to provide remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources.
* **Community Partnerships:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to address transportation challenges and improve healthcare access.
**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Decisions**
The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 24239 underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in healthcare access. While the natural beauty of Davenport offers a unique appeal, the logistical challenges of reaching medical facilities must be carefully evaluated. This score empowers residents and those considering moving to Davenport with the information needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It also serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The journey to healthcare should not be a burden; it should be a right, accessible to all, regardless of where they choose to call home.
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