22851, Stanley, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 22851, Stanley, Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.11 percent of residents in 22851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Page Memorial Hospital, Inc with a distance of 8.45 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stanley, Virginia (ZIP Code 22851)

The crisp mountain air of Stanley, Virginia (ZIP Code 22851) offers a picturesque backdrop, but for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the beauty can be shadowed by the complexities of accessing specialized healthcare. This write-up explores the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options, focusing on transportation challenges and opportunities within and surrounding this rural community. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can reach vital medical care.

The primary concern for any individual diagnosed with lung cancer is timely access to qualified medical professionals and advanced treatment modalities. This necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. For residents of Stanley, the geography itself presents a significant hurdle. Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, the town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, impacting travel routes and times.

The most direct route for many Stanley residents seeking lung cancer care involves driving. The primary arteries for this are **U.S. Route 340**, which runs north-south through the town, and **Virginia Route 33**, which intersects with 340, providing east-west access. Depending on the specific treatment center, drive times can vary considerably.

For example, the closest hospitals with oncology departments are in Harrisonburg, approximately 30 miles south. A drive along **U.S. Route 340** to Harrisonburg can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Further afield, Charlottesville, home to the University of Virginia Medical Center, a major cancer treatment center, is roughly 80 miles southeast. This journey involves a combination of **U.S. Route 340** and **U.S. Route 29**, and could take upwards of two hours, potentially longer during peak travel times.

The journey to Winchester, Virginia, another option for advanced care, necessitates traveling north on **U.S. Route 340** and then east on **Virginia Route 55**, a drive of about 70 miles, taking approximately an hour and a half. These drive times underscore the critical role of reliable personal transportation for individuals with lung cancer, who often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation therapy), and follow-up care.

Public transportation options in Stanley are limited. The local transit authority, if one exists, likely offers minimal service, with routes and schedules tailored to the needs of the general population, not necessarily the specialized demands of cancer patients. Information on ADA accessibility, a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with lung cancer treatment, is crucial.

Exploring public transit necessitates research into regional bus services. The availability of routes connecting Stanley to Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, or Winchester, while potentially offering a more affordable alternative to driving, would be a significant boon. However, the infrequency of service, extended travel times, and potential for transfers could pose significant challenges for individuals undergoing treatment. The lack of direct routes and the potential need for multiple transfers can be exhausting for patients already weakened by their illness.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Shenandoah Valley, but their reliability and availability in a rural area like Stanley are less certain. While these services can offer convenient door-to-door transportation, the cost can accumulate quickly, especially with frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, might be limited.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for individuals with lung cancer who cannot drive or are unable to utilize public transit. Companies like **MedStar Mobile Healthcare** or **American Medical Response (AMR)** may offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive. The cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden for patients and their families, especially those with limited financial resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for transportation access in Stanley, Virginia, reflects the complex interplay of these factors. Considering the drive times to treatment centers, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport, the score is moderate, at best. The score is also impacted by the lack of local healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer treatment.

This score highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer in Stanley. The ability to secure reliable transportation is paramount. This may involve relying on family and friends, exploring volunteer driver programs, or carefully budgeting for ride-sharing or medical transport.

For those considering **moving to Stanley**, the proximity to quality healthcare should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the natural beauty of the area is undeniable, the challenges of accessing specialized medical care must be carefully weighed. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving treatments.

The healthcare landscape in Stanley is evolving. The establishment of telemedicine services, allowing for virtual consultations with specialists, could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, telemedicine cannot replace the need for in-person examinations, treatments, and supportive care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Stanley, Virginia, underscores the need for improved transportation options and increased healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil setting, the realities of navigating the healthcare system for lung cancer patients present considerable challenges. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, expanded public transit options, and increased awareness of available resources is crucial to improve the quality of life for individuals facing this difficult diagnosis.