23702, Portsmouth, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23702, Portsmouth, Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.87 percent of residents in 23702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center with a distance of 2.53 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 23702 (Portsmouth, VA)**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 23702 in Portsmouth, Virginia, providing a detailed assessment of commute times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, essential factors influencing a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Portsmouth.

The ability to reach medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and radiation treatments directly impacts treatment outcomes. Lung cancer patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other debilitating symptoms, making reliable transportation a paramount concern. This write-up explores the landscape of transportation options within and around 23702, examining their accessibility, affordability, and suitability for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For residents of 23702 who prefer to drive, the primary roadways influencing healthcare access include Interstate 264 (I-264), Interstate 664 (I-664), U.S. Route 17 (US-17), and High Street. Driving times to major healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a leading cancer center, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via I-264, depending on traffic conditions.

Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, accessible through I-664, is a 15-25 minute drive. The drive to Portsmouth Naval Medical Center, a significant military medical facility, is typically a 10-15 minute commute via High Street or US-17. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend these travel times, potentially adding considerable stress to patients already burdened by their condition.

**Public Transportation: Hampton Roads Transit (HRT)**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation within the region, including bus routes serving 23702. Several bus routes, including routes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 14, offer service within the ZIP Code and connect to various healthcare facilities. Route 1, for instance, offers service to Portsmouth Naval Medical Center, while Route 4 provides access to downtown Portsmouth, where some medical offices are located.

HRT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service can vary, and some routes may have limited weekend or evening schedules. Waiting times and potential transfers can add to the overall travel time, which may be a concern for patients with frequent appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the Portsmouth area and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel time and minimizing the need for transfers. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, are also available. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers, offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services provide specialized care, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Accessibility and Considerations**

The accessibility of transportation options is a critical factor for lung cancer patients. Individuals with mobility limitations may require wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with boarding and disembarking. The availability of these services, along with the ease of booking and scheduling, significantly impacts the patient experience.

Furthermore, the financial burden of transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. The cost of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transportation can quickly accumulate, particularly for patients undergoing long-term treatment. Patients may need to explore financial assistance programs or rely on family and friends for support.

**Healthcare Access and the 23702 Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 23702 is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability, accessibility, and affordability of transportation options. While the area offers a range of transportation choices, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, there are challenges to consider.

The reliance on roadways such as I-264 and I-664 can lead to traffic delays, especially during peak hours. While HRT provides public transit, frequency and scheduling limitations can impact travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer convenience but can be expensive.

**Moving to Portsmouth: Transportation Implications**

For individuals considering moving to Portsmouth, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns, transportation considerations are paramount. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing services should be key factors in the decision-making process.

The 23702 ZIP Code provides a mixed bag of transportation options. Residents benefit from the proximity to major roadways and the availability of ride-sharing services. However, the potential for traffic delays and the cost of transportation services must be carefully considered.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the transportation landscape in 23702 requires careful planning and consideration of individual needs. While various options exist, the optimal choice will depend on factors such as mobility limitations, financial resources, and the frequency of medical appointments. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring that lung cancer patients can access the care they need, when they need it. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the transportation environment and highlights the importance of proactive planning to ensure seamless access to healthcare.