23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.03 percent of residents in 23459 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital with a distance of 5.89 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 23459

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This analysis delves into the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options for residents of ZIP Code 23459, a vibrant area within Virginia Beach, Virginia, examining the various **transportation** avenues available and their impact on **healthcare access**. Understanding the nuances of getting to appointments, whether for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up care, is paramount for individuals considering **moving to Virginia Beach** or already residing within this community.

ZIP Code 23459, encompassing a portion of the city's southern reaches, offers a diverse landscape, from residential neighborhoods to commercial hubs. This geographical spread necessitates a careful examination of the **transportation** infrastructure and its ability to connect residents with vital medical resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing specialized lung cancer care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many, the primary mode of **transportation** is the personal vehicle. The accessibility of major roadways significantly influences the time and stress associated with medical appointments. Residents of 23459 benefit from the proximity of several key arteries. Interstate 64 (I-64) serves as the primary east-west corridor, facilitating travel to major medical centers like Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital.

Navigating I-64, however, can be a challenge during peak hours. Morning and evening commutes often experience significant congestion, potentially adding considerable time to a patient's journey. Route 44, another major highway, provides an alternative route, particularly for those traveling north towards the medical facilities. However, Route 44 also experiences heavy traffic, especially near the Virginia Beach oceanfront.

Smaller roads, such as Princess Anne Road and Kempsville Road, offer local access points, connecting residential areas to the major highways and hospitals. These roads, while often less congested than the interstates, can be prone to traffic lights and stop-and-go conditions, especially during school hours and rush hour. The drive times, therefore, vary considerably depending on the time of day and the specific destination.

A typical drive to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital from the heart of 23459 could take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Traveling to Sentara Princess Anne Hospital might take a similar amount of time, while access to specialized cancer centers located further afield, like those in Norfolk or Chesapeake, could extend the journey to 45 minutes or more, particularly during peak hours.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Tide**

For those without personal vehicles, or those seeking an alternative to driving, public **transportation** is a critical component of **healthcare access**. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus service throughout Virginia Beach, offering a network of routes that connect various parts of the city. Several HRT routes service the 23459 ZIP code, including routes 20, 22, and 25, which traverse key areas and provide connections to medical facilities.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service can vary significantly depending on the route and the time of day. Some routes operate with limited service on weekends and evenings, potentially posing challenges for patients needing to attend appointments outside of standard business hours.

While HRT offers a valuable service, the travel times can be considerably longer than driving. A bus trip to a major hospital from a location within 23459 could take an hour or more, including potential wait times and transfers. This extended travel time can be particularly taxing for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue and other side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Availability**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option for residents of 23459. These services provide on-demand rides, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good in Virginia Beach, but the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and assistance with luggage or medical equipment. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transport of Virginia offer specialized **transportation** for medical appointments. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who are unable to drive or require assistance due to their condition.

The cost of medical **transportation** services is typically higher than ride-sharing, but the added convenience and support can be invaluable. The availability of these services, however, may vary, and advance booking is often required.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Calculating a "Lung Cancer Score" involves considering all these factors. The score should reflect the ease of access to specialized lung cancer care, taking into account drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and the availability of medical **transportation** services.

The score would need to be calibrated based on several criteria. Drive times during peak and off-peak hours should be assessed. Public transit frequency and accessibility, including ADA features, should be evaluated. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services should be factored in.

For residents of 23459, the Lung Cancer Score would likely be moderate. While the area benefits from access to major highways and a network of public **transportation**, the potential for traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit during off-peak hours could negatively impact the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services would provide valuable alternatives, but the cost and availability of these services should be considered.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Ultimately, the ability to access timely and convenient **transportation** is crucial for lung cancer patients. For those considering **moving to Virginia Beach**, understanding the **transportation** landscape within 23459 is essential. While the area offers a range of options, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical **transportation**, the potential for traffic delays and the limitations of public transit should be carefully considered. Careful planning and a thorough understanding of available resources can help patients navigate the journey to **healthcare access** with greater ease and peace of mind.