23708, Portsmouth, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23708, Portsmouth, Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 23708 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 0.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Portsmouth with a distance of 0.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23708

The quest for optimal healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of accessibility. For residents of ZIP Code 23708 in Portsmouth, Virginia, this means scrutinizing the landscape of transportation options. This write-up provides a detailed assessment of transportation and healthcare access, crucial factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" – an informal metric reflecting the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services.

The heart of this analysis lies in the practicalities of getting to and from healthcare appointments. Lung cancer treatment often involves frequent visits for diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. Delays or difficulties in *transportation* can significantly impact treatment adherence, patient outcomes, and overall quality of life.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for *transportation* within and beyond 23708 are Interstate 264 (I-264) and U.S. Route 17 (US-17). I-264 provides direct access to major medical facilities in Norfolk and Chesapeake, while US-17 offers a more local route. The volume of traffic on these highways can vary, particularly during peak hours, potentially adding considerable time to travel.

For residents in the northern section of 23708, the drive to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major cancer center, typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes via I-264, assuming moderate traffic. The drive to Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, another option, usually takes a similar amount of time, using I-264 and Battlefield Boulevard.

Those residing in the southern part of the zip code might find the drive times to these hospitals slightly longer, often closer to 30 to 40 minutes, due to increased local traffic congestion. Local roads like Portsmouth Boulevard and High Street also play a role in accessing healthcare, but their traffic patterns can be unpredictable.

**Public Transit Options:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offers public *transportation* via bus routes within Portsmouth and connecting to Norfolk and other surrounding cities. Several routes serve 23708, including the 10, 11, and 14. The availability of these routes and their frequency are critical considerations for those without personal vehicles.

The HRT bus system is designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, offering ADA-compliant buses. However, the travel times on public transit can be significantly longer than driving, often requiring transfers and potentially increasing the overall time spent commuting to appointments.

The nearest light rail, The Tide, is located in Norfolk. Using a combination of bus and light rail adds further complexity to the journey, and can be a barrier to *healthcare access*.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the area, offering an alternative *transportation* option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially with frequent medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies such as MedRide and Firstat Nursing Services specialize in providing non-emergency medical *transportation*. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and the level of assistance required.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Access:**

The choice of healthcare facility will influence the *transportation* challenges. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, with its comprehensive cancer center, is a primary destination for many patients. Chesapeake Regional Medical Center offers another option. Smaller clinics and specialist offices within Portsmouth, such as those located along High Street, may offer more convenient access for some residents.

The distance to these facilities, the availability of *transportation* options, and the individual's physical capabilities all contribute to the overall "Lung Cancer Score." A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests greater challenges.

**Considerations for Moving to Portsmouth:**

For individuals considering *moving to Portsmouth* and specifically to 23708, the *transportation* landscape should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing services is essential.

Individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk should prioritize locations with easy access to medical care. Proximity to I-264, coupled with access to ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services, can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance the overall quality of life.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the complexities of *transportation* is a critical component of *healthcare access* for residents of 23708. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a formal metric but rather a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local *transportation* network. By understanding the drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation*, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being. The choice of where to live, the type of *transportation* used, and the healthcare facility selected are all intertwined. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can improve their chances of receiving timely and effective lung cancer treatment.