23457, Virginia Beach, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23457, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.88 percent of residents in 23457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chesapeake General Hospital with a distance of 14.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23457

This write-up analyzes healthcare access for individuals residing in ZIP Code 23457, focusing on lung cancer care. It assesses transportation options, crucial for timely and consistent medical appointments, a cornerstone of effective treatment. The goal is to provide a practical "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, factoring in drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods. This information is especially relevant for those considering moving to Virginia Beach, seeking optimal healthcare access.

ZIP Code 23457, encompassing a significant portion of Virginia Beach, Virginia, presents a diverse landscape for transportation. Understanding these options is paramount for lung cancer patients, who often require frequent visits for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care. The ability to navigate the area efficiently and reliably directly impacts the quality of life and treatment outcomes.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Healing**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many residents. The primary arteries for healthcare access are the **I-264**, **I-64**, and the **Virginia Beach Boulevard**. Access to these highways is generally good, though rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times.

For lung cancer patients seeking specialized care, the primary destinations are the major hospitals and cancer centers. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, located off **I-264**, is a crucial facility. Drive times from within 23457 to this hospital can vary dramatically. During off-peak hours, a drive from the western edge of the zip code might take 15-20 minutes. However, during morning or evening rush hour, this could easily double, potentially exceeding 40 minutes.

Another significant healthcare provider is the Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, located off **I-64**. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care. Travel times to this facility from 23457, particularly from the eastern areas, can be longer, often requiring navigating the **I-64** corridor, which is known for heavy traffic. Depending on the specific location within the zip code, drive times can range from 20 minutes to over an hour during peak congestion.

The Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, accessible via **Princess Anne Road**, is another essential resource. While closer for some residents in 23457, traffic on **Princess Anne Road** can be unpredictable. Expect drive times to vary from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the location and time of day.

**Public Transit: A Network of Hope**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation within Virginia Beach and the broader Hampton Roads area. The system, while offering a viable alternative to driving, presents limitations for lung cancer patients. The primary bus routes serving 23457 are crucial.

Route 20, which travels along **Virginia Beach Boulevard**, is a major artery. It offers access to some medical facilities. Route 22, another key route, provides connections to other areas of the city. Route 24, serving the southern parts of the zip code, can be useful for accessing healthcare.

However, public transit in this area has its challenges. The frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends, can be infrequent, leading to extended travel times. Transfers between routes can add significant delays. For a patient undergoing treatment, this can be physically taxing and emotionally draining.

HRT does offer ADA-accessible buses, which is critical for patients with mobility issues. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system can vary. The journey from a patient's home to a medical appointment via public transit can easily take an hour or more, especially considering the need to arrive early for appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide an alternative to driving and public transit. These services offer door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers and reducing travel times. However, the cost can be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized approach. Companies such as LogistiCare and ModivCare often contract with insurance providers. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. This can be a valuable option for patients with mobility limitations. However, availability and scheduling can be a concern, and advance booking is often required.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 23457 is a composite assessment, considering the factors mentioned above. It's not a single number but a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities of accessing healthcare.

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The proximity to major highways like **I-264** and **I-64** is a positive factor. However, the impact of traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, is a significant negative.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The HRT system provides an option, but its limitations in terms of frequency, route coverage, and transfer times pose challenges. ADA accessibility is a positive, but overall convenience is a concern.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:** Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be expensive. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but may have scheduling limitations.

**Recommendations for Lung Cancer Patients in 23457**

* **Assess your individual needs:** Consider your mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of your appointments.
* **Plan your transportation in advance:** Factor in travel times, traffic conditions, and potential delays.
* **Explore all available options:** Combine driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation as needed.
* **Advocate for improved transportation:** Support initiatives that enhance public transit, improve traffic flow, and expand access to medical transportation services.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities:** When considering moving to Virginia Beach, prioritize locations within 23457 that offer shorter drive times to cancer centers and hospitals.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 23457 highlights the need for careful planning and resourcefulness in navigating healthcare access. While the area offers various transportation options, the impact of traffic, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing services require thoughtful consideration. By understanding these factors, lung cancer patients can optimize their healthcare journey and improve their quality of life.