23109, Mathews, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23109, Mathews, Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.59 percent of residents in 23109 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Walter Reed Hospital with a distance of 12.20 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23109**

The tranquility of Mathews County, Virginia, embodied by ZIP Code 23109, often beckons those seeking a slower pace. However, the idyllic scenery must be considered alongside the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a diagnosis like lung cancer. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, crucial for timely treatment, and aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the practical challenges and opportunities for individuals moving to Mathews or already residing within its borders.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the transportation infrastructure's impact on healthcare access. Factors considered include drive times to oncology centers, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport. The score will highlight the potential difficulties and provide insights into navigating the system effectively.

**The Drive to Care: Roads and Highways**

For residents of 23109, the primary mode of transportation for accessing specialized cancer care is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The nearest comprehensive oncology services are located in the larger urban centers of the region, primarily in the Hampton Roads area. This necessitates travel, and the drive times are a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

From Mathews, the most direct route to the Hampton Roads area involves a journey primarily on Route 14, locally known as Main Street and Gloucester Highway. This road leads to Gloucester, where it intersects with Route 17, a major north-south artery. From there, patients can travel south towards Newport News, Hampton, or Williamsburg, depending on the specific oncology center they need to reach.

The drive to Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, a prominent healthcare provider with oncology services, typically takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. The distance is roughly 50-60 miles.

Alternatively, the drive to Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, another option for cancer care, takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. The distance is roughly 50 miles.

The drive times are influenced by traffic, particularly during peak hours. Delays can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Mathews County and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. There is no direct public transit service within Mathews County.

The primary public transit provider in the region is the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT). However, HRT's services are primarily concentrated in the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach. Accessing HRT from Mathews would require a significant drive to a connecting point, making it an impractical option for most residents.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on any potential routes is a crucial consideration. Patients with mobility limitations require transportation that can accommodate their needs. The lack of robust public transportation options in Mathews County significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score" for individuals reliant on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Mathews County can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments is a concern.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility issues and can provide door-to-door service.

However, medical transport services can be costly, and the availability of specific services varies. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the cost and availability of these services when assessing the overall healthcare access.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in 23109: An Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 23109 reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those with a serious illness like lung cancer. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with limited public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, presents significant hurdles.

The drive times to oncology centers, while manageable, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment. Traffic delays and the need to arrange transportation can add to the burden. The lack of readily available public transportation options further complicates matters for individuals without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful consideration for anyone moving to Mathews, especially those with existing health conditions. It underscores the importance of planning for transportation needs and exploring all available options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Several strategies could improve healthcare access for residents of 23109.

* **Expand Public Transportation:** Advocating for improved public transportation options, including potential routes connecting Mathews to the Hampton Roads area, would significantly benefit residents.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Services:** Encouraging ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in the area and ensure reliable service, particularly for medical appointments, is crucial.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Providing information and resources to residents regarding available medical transport services and potential financial assistance programs can ease the burden of transportation costs.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Encouraging the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for frequent travel to appointments.
* **Community Support:** Establishing a local support network, including volunteer drivers and carpooling initiatives, can provide vital assistance to patients.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 23109 reveals the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals facing serious health issues. By understanding the available options, planning ahead, and advocating for improvements, residents of Mathews County can navigate the road to healthcare with greater ease and confidence. The journey to recovery demands not only medical expertise but also reliable and accessible transportation.