24380, Willis, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24380, Willis, Virginia is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.58 percent of residents in 24380 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wythe County Community Hospital with a distance of 33.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Willis, Virginia (ZIP Code 24380)

The journey to comprehensive breast cancer care is rarely a straight path. It’s a complex undertaking, often fraught with emotional and logistical challenges. For residents of Willis, Virginia (ZIP Code 24380), those challenges are amplified by the rural nature of the region, impacting **healthcare access** and particularly **transportation** options. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, aims to illuminate the realities of accessing care, considering drive times, public transit limitations, and ride-share availability. This information is critical for both current residents and those considering **moving to Willis**, allowing for informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

Willis, nestled in the heart of Floyd County, offers a tranquil, scenic lifestyle. However, the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains also presents geographical hurdles when it comes to accessing specialized medical services. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, requiring significant travel time. This "Breast Cancer Score" will analyze the accessibility of these centers, focusing on the practical aspects of getting there and back.

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Willis are Virginia State Route 8 and Virginia State Route 221. These roads, while scenic, can be winding and slow-going, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. The drive to the nearest major medical centers will be the cornerstone of our assessment.

**Drive Times and Destinations:**

The closest option for breast cancer care, including screening and basic treatment, is likely to be in Floyd, Virginia. The drive to the Carilion Clinic Floyd Medical Center, located at 300 Jefferson Street, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Willis. This is a relatively manageable commute for routine appointments, but may not offer the full spectrum of specialized breast cancer services.

For more comprehensive care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and advanced diagnostic imaging, residents of Willis will need to travel further. Roanoke, Virginia, offers several options, including the Carilion Clinic Cancer Center at Roanoke Memorial Hospital (2014 Franklin Rd SW). The drive to Roanoke, primarily via VA-8 and US-221, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments or treatments.

Another option for advanced care is the LewisGale Medical Center in Salem, Virginia (1900 Braeburn Dr). The drive to Salem, also primarily via VA-8 and US-221, is similar to the Roanoke commute, around 45-60 minutes. This provides another option for second opinions or specialized treatment.

These drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during winter months when snow and ice can make the mountain roads treacherous. The availability of reliable **transportation** becomes even more critical during these times.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public **transportation** options in Floyd County are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system serving the Willis area. The primary form of public **transportation** is the Floyd County Transportation Program, which provides demand-response service for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential trips. This program requires advance booking and operates on a limited schedule, making it less than ideal for urgent needs or frequent appointments.

The lack of robust public transit poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, or those with mobility limitations. The absence of fixed routes and schedules necessitates careful planning and reliance on the availability of the demand-response service, which may not always be able to accommodate specific needs. There is no information available regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features for the Floyd County Transportation Program.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Roanoke and Salem areas. However, their availability in Willis and the surrounding rural areas is limited. Ride-share services may not always be readily accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of reliability presents a challenge for those relying on these services for **transportation** to and from medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedTrans or FirstCall Medical Transportation, are available in the region. These services specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services offer a reliable option for patients with mobility limitations, they can be expensive and require advance booking. The cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant financial burden for patients, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment.

**Overall Assessment and Recommendations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Willis, Virginia, reflects the challenges of accessing comprehensive breast cancer care due to the rural nature of the region. While the drive times to Roanoke and Salem are manageable for many, the lack of reliable public transit and limited ride-share availability create significant barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for vulnerable populations.

For residents of Willis, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize proactive screening:** Regular mammograms and self-breast exams are essential for early detection.
* **Plan ahead for appointments:** Book appointments well in advance and consider the **transportation** options available.
* **Explore support networks:** Connect with local support groups and organizations that can provide assistance with **transportation** and other needs.
* **Advocate for improved services:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public **transportation** options and increasing the availability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Consider the full picture:** When **moving to Willis**, factor in the **transportation** challenges and the impact on **healthcare access**, especially if you or a family member have a history of breast cancer.

The journey through breast cancer is a personal one. For residents of Willis, it requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a strong support system. By understanding the challenges and proactively addressing them, individuals can navigate the complexities of **healthcare access** and ensure they receive the best possible care.