22405, Fredericksburg, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 22405, Fredericksburg, Virginia is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.98 percent of residents in 22405 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Washington Hospital with a distance of 2.90 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 22405

This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer healthcare within ZIP Code 22405, Fredericksburg, Virginia, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient access. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," considering the critical role transportation plays in timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty residents face in accessing vital medical services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Fredericksburg or for current residents navigating their healthcare options.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the available transportation infrastructure. ZIP Code 22405 is primarily served by the City of Fredericksburg and the surrounding Spotsylvania County. The primary artery for vehicular traffic is Interstate 95 (I-95), running north-south, connecting Fredericksburg to major cities like Washington, D.C., and Richmond. US Route 17, another significant thoroughfare, provides access to the Rappahannock River and beyond.

For residents relying on personal vehicles, drive times to healthcare facilities become paramount. Mary Washington Hospital, the primary hospital in the area, is a central hub. From various points within 22405, a drive to Mary Washington Hospital can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is especially important for cancer patients who need timely access to treatment.

The journey to the hospital can be affected by rush hour congestion. Commuting times are often extended during peak hours, especially on I-95 and US Route 1. The ability to navigate these roads efficiently is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Delays can be particularly stressful for patients undergoing treatment, potentially impacting their overall health outcomes.

Beyond Mary Washington Hospital, access to specialized cancer care, including oncologists, radiation therapy, and surgical services, necessitates consideration. The Virginia Cancer Institute, located in Fredericksburg, provides comprehensive cancer care. Drive times to this facility are similar to those for Mary Washington Hospital, typically ranging from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on location and traffic.

Public transportation options are available, though their impact on healthcare access requires careful scrutiny. The Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FRED) system operates several bus routes within the city and into Spotsylvania County. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage of areas within 22405, particularly those with significant residential development, is a critical factor.

The FRED system has some routes that provide direct access to Mary Washington Hospital and the Virginia Cancer Institute. Route 1, for example, serves the hospital. However, the limited frequency of these routes, especially on weekends and evenings, can present challenges for patients requiring regular appointments. ADA accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, are available on FRED buses, ensuring access for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services are readily available in Fredericksburg and can provide door-to-door transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden for patients, especially those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, availability can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like MedRide and FirstLight Home Care offer specialized transportation services. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. The cost of these services, and the insurance coverage for them, are important considerations.

The Lung Cancer Score must factor in the availability and affordability of these services. A higher score reflects greater accessibility, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing costs, and medical transportation availability. Conversely, a lower score indicates potential barriers to healthcare access, such as long drive times, limited public transit, and high transportation costs.

The score also needs to reflect the impact of transportation on the overall patient experience. Long commutes, unreliable transportation, and high costs can contribute to stress, anxiety, and missed appointments. These factors can negatively impact treatment adherence and overall health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Fredericksburg, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool. It provides insights into the ease of accessing healthcare services, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions. This is especially important for individuals with pre-existing health conditions, including those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The ideal scenario involves a robust transportation network, including frequent and reliable public transit, affordable ride-sharing options, and readily available medical transportation services. This ensures that all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status or physical abilities, have equal access to healthcare.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as transportation infrastructure and healthcare services evolve. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in bus routes, ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of medical transportation services. This ensures the score remains a relevant and reliable resource for residents of 22405.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 22405 is more than just a numerical value. It is a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. By understanding the nuances of transportation and its impact on patient care, we can strive to create a healthier and more equitable environment for all residents. The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals diagnosed with lung cancer can access the care they need, when they need it, without undue hardship or delay. This is a critical component of a healthy community and a vital consideration for anyone considering moving to Fredericksburg.