23308, Bloxom, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23308, Bloxom, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.93 percent of residents in 23308 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.75 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23308

The pursuit of optimal healthcare, particularly for a condition as serious as lung cancer, demands careful consideration of accessibility. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 23308 (Bloxom, Virginia), examines the critical component of transportation, the crucial link between a patient and the potentially life-saving treatments they require. This score will assess the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare facilities, a vital factor for anyone considering moving to Bloxom or already residing within its boundaries.

The score incorporates drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape, directly impacting healthcare access for individuals battling lung cancer.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. In 23308, the primary arteries for reaching healthcare facilities are the major highways and local roads. The most direct route to the nearest major hospital, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onancock, Virginia, typically involves traveling north on US-13. This highway, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers a relatively straightforward journey, though traffic conditions can vary, especially during peak hours or weekends.

The drive from Bloxom to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for residents needing frequent appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or emergency care. However, it is important to note that this drive time assumes optimal conditions.

Alternative routes exist, primarily utilizing local roads like VA-612 (Parksley Road) and VA-600 (Bloxom Road). These routes, while offering scenic drives through the Eastern Shore landscape, can significantly increase travel time, especially during rush hour. These roads are less direct, often winding through residential areas and agricultural land, and may not be ideal for patients experiencing discomfort or fatigue.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 23308 are limited. The Eastern Shore Area Agency on Aging (ESAAA) provides demand-response transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services, while crucial for those who qualify, are not a readily available option for all residents. The ESAAA service requires advance booking and may not be suitable for emergency situations or spontaneous appointments.

The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The limited options can create a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who are already facing the physical and emotional challenges of lung cancer.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bloxom area. However, their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. Reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive and may not always be reliable, particularly for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, including those requiring wheelchairs or other mobility assistance. However, these services can be costly and may require prior authorization from insurance providers.

**ADA Accessibility: Ensuring Equitable Access**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and healthcare facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible seating on public transit vehicles. While Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital is ADA compliant, the limited public transit options in 23308 highlight the importance of considering accessibility when evaluating healthcare access.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The Lung Cancer Score for 23308 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The relatively short drive time to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services create challenges for some residents.

This score must consider the individual needs of each patient. For individuals with personal vehicles and the ability to drive, the proximity to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital offers a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations, the challenges of accessing healthcare are more pronounced.

**Moving to Bloxom: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Bloxom, the transportation landscape should be a key factor in their decision. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle and close-knit community, the limitations in public transportation and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services should be carefully considered.

Prospective residents with lung cancer or other health conditions that require frequent medical appointments should assess their ability to navigate the local transportation options. The availability of family members, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation is also a crucial consideration.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The Lung Cancer Score for 23308 highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers some advantages, particularly the relatively short drive time to a major hospital, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges.

Improving healthcare access in 23308 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation services, promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and ensuring that medical transport services are accessible and affordable. By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can improve the lives of individuals battling lung cancer and other health conditions, making Bloxom a truly welcoming and supportive environment for all.