24343, Hillsville, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24343, Hillsville, Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.94 percent of residents in 24343 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski with a distance of 21.68 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hillsville, VA (ZIP Code 24343)**

Considering a move to Hillsville, Virginia, and concerned about healthcare access, especially regarding breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services within and around ZIP code 24343.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive medical assessment. It's a transportation-focused evaluation of the accessibility of healthcare facilities equipped for breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The score considers the practicalities of getting to those facilities, which is a critical factor in early detection and successful treatment outcomes.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

Hillsville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are Interstate 77 (I-77), U.S. Route 58 (US-58), and Virginia Route 100 (VA-100). Drive times are the most significant component of our score, as they directly impact the speed and ease of reaching medical facilities.

The closest facility offering comprehensive breast cancer services is probably located in Galax, Virginia. Driving from Hillsville to Galax, along US-58, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short commute earns a favorable score component. However, remember that this is an estimate, and the actual time can fluctuate.

For more specialized care, such as advanced treatment or clinical trials, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Roanoke or Winston-Salem. Driving to Roanoke, primarily via I-77 North, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific location within Roanoke. This longer commute negatively affects the score.

Traveling to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, requires a drive of roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via US-52 South. This distance, while manageable, adds to the potential stress and inconvenience of accessing healthcare. The Breast Cancer Score considers these longer drive times, reflecting the increased challenges for regular appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hillsville are limited. The local transit system, if any, is likely to be minimal, with infrequent routes and limited service areas. This lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

There is no dedicated public bus service that directly connects Hillsville to major medical centers in Roanoke or Winston-Salem. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services for those who cannot drive.

Any existing public transit options may not have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility or accessible boarding. This is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may affect their physical abilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, may be available in Hillsville, but their reliability and availability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The Breast Cancer Score considers the potential for delays or cancellations, which can disrupt appointments and treatments.

Medical transport services are a crucial resource for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, offer door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments.

Several medical transport providers serve the Hillsville area, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations. The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability and cost of these services.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The presence of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and clinics, is an essential factor in healthcare access. These facilities often provide initial screenings and referrals for specialized breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the importance of these local resources.

The availability of a local hospital or medical center offering diagnostic imaging services, such as mammograms, is crucial for early detection. The proximity and accessibility of these facilities directly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Breast Cancer Score for Hillsville, VA (ZIP Code 24343) is a composite assessment of the factors described above. It acknowledges the importance of drive times, the limitations of public transit, the role of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the presence of local healthcare resources.

The score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the transportation landscape. It should be used as a guide, not a definitive judgment. Individuals considering a move to Hillsville or those already residing there should actively research available transportation options and healthcare facilities.

The score is designed to help individuals make informed decisions about healthcare access. It's a tool for understanding the practicalities of reaching healthcare facilities and the potential challenges they may face.

**Moving to Hillsville: Considerations for Healthcare**

If you are moving to Hillsville, carefully consider the transportation options available to you. Assess your ability to drive, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transport.

Research the healthcare facilities in the area and their proximity to your chosen residence. Determine the availability of breast cancer screening and treatment services.

Understand that healthcare access in Hillsville, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics. The Breast Cancer Score is a starting point for evaluating these factors.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Hillsville, VA (ZIP Code 24343) provides a valuable framework for understanding healthcare access concerning breast cancer. It highlights the importance of transportation, the limitations of public transit, and the role of ride-sharing and medical transport. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and navigate the complexities of accessing care in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region. The score is intended to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to prioritize their health and well-being.