24250, Fort Blackmore, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24250, Fort Blackmore, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.27 percent of residents in 24250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 12.73 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fort Blackmore, VA (ZIP Code 24250)

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, and the journey to recovery often hinges on timely and accessible healthcare. For residents of Fort Blackmore, Virginia (ZIP Code 24250), a rural community nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, navigating the complexities of breast cancer care involves a crucial element: transportation. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for those facing this challenging diagnosis. The score will incorporate drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of the realities of accessing vital care in this specific geographic location.

Fort Blackmore, a small unincorporated community in Scott County, presents unique challenges. Its relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or the limited availability of alternative transportation methods. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities equipped to handle breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in larger towns and cities, often requiring significant travel. This underscores the importance of understanding the available transportation options and their impact on the overall healthcare experience. The Breast Cancer Score will consider factors such as travel time, cost, and the physical and emotional toll of commuting for treatment, aiming to provide a realistic assessment for residents and those considering moving to Fort Blackmore.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents of Fort Blackmore is the personal vehicle. The journey to receive breast cancer care often involves navigating winding roads and traversing considerable distances. The closest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Kingsport, Tennessee, and Abingdon, Virginia.

To reach Kingsport, the most direct route typically involves taking **VA-71** south, which merges into **US-23 South**. This drive, covering approximately 30-40 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route is generally well-maintained, but the mountainous terrain can sometimes lead to slower travel times, particularly during inclement weather.

Alternatively, the journey to Abingdon involves traveling north on **VA-71** to **US-58 East**, then taking **I-81 South** to the Abingdon exits. This route, spanning roughly 40-50 miles, can take an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. While the interstate offers a faster travel experience, it also necessitates navigating potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the significant time commitment required for routine appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation treatments, and follow-up care. The cumulative effect of these travel times can be substantial, impacting a patient's energy levels, financial resources, and overall well-being. For individuals undergoing treatment, the physical strain of driving, coupled with the emotional burden of the diagnosis, can significantly affect their quality of life.

**Public Transit Realities:**

Public transportation options in Fort Blackmore are extremely limited. Scott County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. This creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or face financial constraints.

The absence of a reliable public transit system forces residents to rely heavily on personal vehicles or explore alternative options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it limits the accessibility of healthcare for a vulnerable population.

ADA-compliant buses are non-existent in this area.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kingsport and Abingdon areas, but their presence in Fort Blackmore itself is inconsistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and costly, potentially leading to missed appointments or delayed care.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like MedTrans or American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potential wait times.

These services are a crucial resource for patients who cannot drive themselves, but their accessibility and affordability are critical factors in determining the overall Breast Cancer Score. The cost of medical transport can place a significant financial burden on patients, especially those with limited incomes or facing extensive treatment regimens.

**The Impact on the Breast Cancer Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Fort Blackmore, VA (ZIP Code 24250) is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The long drive times to medical facilities in Kingsport and Abingdon add to the physical and emotional toll on patients, potentially impacting their treatment adherence and overall well-being.

The absence of reliable public transit and the potential cost of medical transport services disproportionately affect individuals with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those who lack access to a personal vehicle. This highlights the need for community-based solutions, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with local organizations to provide transportation assistance.

**Moving to Fort Blackmore and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Fort Blackmore, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore available options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

It is essential to factor in the time commitment and financial costs associated with traveling to medical appointments. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those requiring frequent medical care should consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare in this rural setting.

The Breast Cancer Score for Fort Blackmore underscores the need for proactive measures to improve healthcare access. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, supporting volunteer driver programs, and exploring partnerships with healthcare providers to offer telehealth services. By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can enhance the quality of life for residents and ensure that everyone has equal access to vital healthcare services.