22643, Markham, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 22643, Markham, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.06 percent of residents in 22643 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Warren Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Markham, Virginia (ZIP Code 22643)

The air hangs crisp and clean in Markham, Virginia, a community nestled in the embrace of the Shenandoah Valley. But beneath the idyllic surface, residents face a crucial reality: the availability and accessibility of healthcare, particularly for a disease as serious as lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP code 22643, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential and current residents. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Markham, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective lung cancer care.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Markham is the ability to reach medical facilities. For residents of 22643, this primarily translates to driving. The primary arteries of transportation are Route 55 and Route 66. Route 55, a winding road, connects Markham to Warrenton and I-66. This highway is the lifeline to larger medical centers. The drive to Fauquier Hospital in Warrenton, the closest hospital, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. I-66 provides access to even more extensive healthcare options in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including hospitals like Inova Fairfax Hospital. However, the commute can be significantly longer, often exceeding an hour during peak traffic times.

The secondary roads, like Route 688, Route 647, and Route 712, are essential for local travel. They connect Markham to neighboring towns and provide access to primary care physicians and specialist offices. These roads, while scenic, can be narrow and winding, potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility issues or during inclement weather. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance for healthcare access in this rural community.

Public transportation options in 22643 are limited. The primary provider of public transportation is the Fauquier County Transit. However, their services in Markham are infrequent, primarily focusing on demand-response services that require advance booking. These services are not specifically tailored for medical appointments, and the limited schedule may present significant challenges for individuals needing regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is essential, but the limited scope of public transit in the area raises concerns about healthcare access for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Markham area. Their availability, however, is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. This uncertainty and expense add another layer of complexity to the transportation challenge.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, including those with mobility limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have limited availability, particularly in rural areas. The cost of NEMT can also be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Markham, Virginia, reflects the complex interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a moderately challenging healthcare access environment. While the proximity to Fauquier Hospital is a positive factor, the longer commute times to larger medical centers in the Washington D.C. area and the limitations of alternative transportation options pose significant hurdles.

For individuals considering moving to Markham, this "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a crucial guide. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and their ability to access medical services. They should factor in the potential costs of transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the limitations of public transit. Those with lung cancer or a higher risk of developing the disease should give special consideration to the potential challenges of accessing regular medical care.

The score is not a static assessment. It can be improved through community initiatives. Increased investment in public transportation, including more frequent routes and expanded ADA-accessible services, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnerships between local governments, healthcare providers, and transportation companies could also improve the availability and affordability of medical transportation services. Furthermore, promoting awareness of available transportation options and providing assistance to individuals in need can bridge the gap between healthcare and the community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Markham, Virginia, is a call to action. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access, one that considers the unique challenges faced by residents of this rural community. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. And by working together, the community can strive to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Markham, including those facing the challenges of lung cancer, can receive the timely and effective care they deserve.