23413, Nassawadox, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23413, Nassawadox, Virginia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.41 percent of residents in 23413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.01 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Nassawadox (ZIP Code 23413)**

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient access to healthcare. For residents of Nassawadox, Virginia (ZIP code 23413), the journey to specialized care is a crucial element in the fight against this disease. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which individuals can access vital medical services, particularly for those facing the challenges of lung cancer. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all with the aim of providing a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' for this specific geographic area.

Nassawadox, nestled on Virginia's Eastern Shore, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. Its relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. The primary roadways serving the area are US-13, the main north-south artery, and VA-600, which offers more local access. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore a critical factor.

The closest major medical centers are located in the broader region. Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onancock, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via US-13, provides a crucial local resource. However, for specialized lung cancer treatment, including oncology and pulmonology, patients may need to travel further.

Drive times to larger hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers, such as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital or EVMS (Eastern Virginia Medical School) in Norfolk, can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves taking US-13 south, merging onto I-64 West, and navigating the urban sprawl of the Hampton Roads area. The potential for significant delays, especially during peak hours, must be factored into the overall 'Lung Cancer Score'.

Public transportation options in Nassawadox are limited. The Eastern Shore Area Transit (ESAT) offers a demand-response service, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service is available within Accomack and Northampton counties, potentially providing access to local medical appointments. However, ESAT's reach and frequency are limited, and it might not be suitable for urgent or specialized healthcare needs. The service does provide ADA-accessible vehicles.

Public transit to Norfolk, where advanced lung cancer treatment is available, is not a viable option. The lack of direct bus or train routes necessitates relying on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport. This limitation significantly impacts the 'Lung Cancer Score', particularly for individuals without access to a car or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Nassawadox area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, their cost can be a significant barrier for some patients. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing may be limited during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing availability adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in ensuring that patients can reach their appointments. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who cannot drive themselves. These services typically involve a scheduled pick-up and drop-off, providing a safe and reliable way to travel to medical appointments.

Companies like Medical Transportation Services and others provide NEMT services in the area. However, the availability of these services, particularly for long-distance trips to Norfolk, can be limited, and scheduling in advance is often required. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant burden, especially for patients with limited financial resources.

Considering all these factors, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Nassawadox (ZIP code 23413) presents a mixed picture. While local healthcare access is relatively good, the need for specialized lung cancer treatment often necessitates longer travel distances, which impacts the overall healthcare access.

The drive times to major cancer centers in Norfolk are significant, and the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential cost of medical transport services can create barriers to accessing timely and effective care.

For someone moving to Nassawadox, these transportation factors are crucial to consider. Prospective residents, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, should carefully evaluate the healthcare access options available. They should research the availability and cost of medical transport services and consider the impact of long drive times on their ability to attend appointments and receive treatment.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Nassawadox is influenced by the availability of local healthcare resources, the drive times to specialized treatment centers, and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential cost of medical transport services create additional challenges.

The overall score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options for individuals seeking lung cancer care in this area. While the community offers local healthcare, the need for specialized treatment often requires navigating longer distances, impacting the overall healthcare access. The ability to secure reliable transportation is a critical factor in ensuring that residents of Nassawadox receive the timely and effective care they need.