24269, Mc Clure, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24269, Mc Clure, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

18.52 percent of residents in 24269 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dickenson Community Hospital with a distance of 6.69 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in McClure, VA (ZIP Code 24269)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible, reliable, and timely **transportation**. For residents of McClure, Virginia (ZIP Code 24269), the reality of **healthcare access** is intricately woven with the challenges of rural living. This write-up aims to assess the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, focusing on the vital link between **transportation** and the ability to receive timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. This is especially relevant for individuals **moving to McClure**, seeking a clear understanding of the practical hurdles they might face.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers several factors: drive times to relevant medical facilities, availability of public **transportation**, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical **transportation** services. Each element contributes to the overall ease or difficulty of accessing potentially life-saving care. We'll delve into each aspect, painting a picture of the landscape faced by individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in McClure.

McClure, nestled in the heart of Dickenson County, is a community defined by its scenic beauty and relative isolation. The primary artery for **transportation** is State Route 63, also known as Clintwood Main Street. This road serves as the central thoroughfare, connecting residents to essential services and, importantly, to healthcare facilities. The nearest hospital offering comprehensive breast cancer services, including mammograms, biopsies, and potentially surgical interventions, is Dickenson County Medical Center in Clintwood, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 63. This proximity is a significant advantage, offering relatively quick access to initial diagnostic procedures.

However, the scope of care available at the Dickenson County Medical Center may be limited. For more specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients often need to travel to larger medical centers in neighboring cities. The nearest major medical hub is in Johnson City, Tennessee, home to the Johnson City Medical Center and the Franklin Woods Community Hospital. This journey, however, presents a considerable **transportation** hurdle.

The most direct route to Johnson City involves taking Route 63 to Route 83, then merging onto US-58 East. From there, the journey continues onto I-26 East. This drive covers approximately 70-80 miles and can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can significantly impact a patient's physical and emotional well-being. The stress of prolonged travel, coupled with the side effects of treatment, can exacerbate the challenges of battling breast cancer.

Public **transportation** options in McClure are extremely limited. The primary provider is the Dickenson County Public **Transportation** System. While this service exists, it operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. The availability of this service is heavily influenced by funding and staffing, which can fluctuate. Furthermore, the system's reach may not extend to all necessary medical appointments or facilities. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on the vehicles, ensuring the service is accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling requirements and limited service area make it an unreliable option for many breast cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually nonexistent in McClure. The sparse population density and limited demand make it financially unviable for these companies to operate in the area. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, family, friends, or specialized medical **transportation** services.

The availability of medical **transportation** services is a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**, offering options for patients who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. These services often cater to individuals requiring assistance with appointments, treatments, and other medical needs.

Some of the companies that may serve the McClure area include: First Transit, LogistiCare, and Medical **Transportation** Management (MTM). However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Patients and their families must navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for McClure, VA (ZIP Code 24269) is therefore, a mixed bag. The proximity of the Dickenson County Medical Center offers a degree of convenience for initial diagnostic procedures. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care in Johnson City, TN, coupled with the limitations of public **transportation** and the scarcity of ride-sharing options, significantly impacts the overall score. The availability and affordability of medical **transportation** services become crucial, but these factors are often subject to individual circumstances and insurance coverage.

For individuals **moving to McClure** and concerned about **healthcare access**, particularly regarding breast cancer, several considerations are paramount. The first is the necessity of a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive or access someone who can. Second, it is vital to research and understand the available medical **transportation** options, including their costs and insurance coverage. Third, establishing a strong support network of family and friends who can provide assistance with appointments and other needs is crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical value; it reflects the lived experience of individuals battling a life-threatening illness. It highlights the importance of accessible **transportation** in ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and support. While McClure offers a degree of proximity to initial medical services, the challenges of accessing specialized care and the limitations of **transportation** options necessitate careful planning and proactive measures for those seeking to receive comprehensive breast cancer care. The journey to healthcare in McClure is a testament to the resilience of the community, but also a call for improved resources and support to ensure that all residents have equal access to life-saving medical services.