23827, Boykins, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23827, Boykins, Virginia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.71 percent of residents in 23827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 23827

The journey to receiving timely and effective lung cancer care is often fraught with challenges, especially for residents in rural areas. This write-up examines the accessibility of healthcare resources for individuals residing in ZIP Code 23827 (Boykins, Virginia), focusing on the critical element of transportation. We’ll assess the “Lung Cancer Score” based on the ease of reaching essential medical facilities, considering various modes of transportation and their associated limitations. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone living in or considering **moving to Boykins**, ensuring they can access the necessary screenings, diagnoses, and treatments without undue hardship.

Boykins, a small town nestled in Southampton County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is primarily served by rural roads, making travel times potentially longer than in more urbanized settings. The availability of public transportation is limited, and reliance on personal vehicles is common. This dependence on personal vehicles can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score, especially for individuals facing mobility issues or lacking access to a car. The distance to specialized cancer centers and the efficiency of the available transportation options are key determinants of the score.

The primary highway artery serving Boykins is US-58. Traveling east on US-58 leads to the larger cities of Suffolk and Chesapeake, where more extensive medical facilities are located. The drive to Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, a potential site for lung cancer treatment, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Westward on US-58 leads towards Emporia, where some primary care facilities and potentially diagnostic services might be available. However, the scope of cancer care in Emporia is limited.

Another critical route is VA-672, a local road that connects Boykins to other areas within Southampton County. This road, however, primarily serves local traffic and doesn't directly connect to major medical centers. The drive times on VA-672 are generally shorter, but it does not provide access to specialized healthcare. The quality of these roads, including potential potholes and limited shoulders, can also impact travel times and the safety of patients, particularly those undergoing treatment.

Public transportation options in 23827 are severely limited. The Southside Transportation System (STS) provides some services within Southampton County and to neighboring areas. However, the frequency of these routes is low, and the service may not be readily available for immediate medical appointments. The STS operates a demand-response service, requiring advance booking, which can be problematic for urgent needs. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles, crucial for patients with mobility impairments, must be confirmed when booking.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can be variable. The availability of drivers in rural areas is often lower than in urban centers, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares. This can be a significant barrier for patients who require frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up care. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, placing a financial burden on patients already facing the challenges of cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide another option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically involve pre-arranged trips to and from medical appointments. While they offer a more reliable option than ride-sharing, they often require advance booking and may have limited availability. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of these services can vary.

The Lung Cancer Score for 23827 reflects the challenges presented by these transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. This means that residents of Boykins may face significant hurdles in accessing timely and convenient lung cancer care.

The distance to specialized cancer centers, such as those in Suffolk or Chesapeake, is a key factor. While the drive times are manageable, they can still be a burden for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects. The need to arrange transportation, navigate traffic, and potentially pay for parking adds to the stress and complexity of receiving care.

The lack of readily available public transportation exacerbates these challenges. Patients without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive due to their condition are left with limited options. This can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, a poorer prognosis. The limited frequency and demand-response nature of the STS further complicate the situation.

The cost of transportation is another critical consideration. The expense of gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation can quickly add up, placing a financial strain on patients and their families. This financial burden can impact their ability to adhere to treatment plans and access the care they need.

When assessing the Lung Cancer Score, we must also consider the impact of these transportation challenges on the overall well-being of patients. The stress of arranging transportation, the potential for delays, and the financial burden can contribute to anxiety and depression. This can negatively affect their ability to cope with their illness and adhere to treatment.

For individuals **moving to Boykins**, a thorough assessment of the transportation options and their associated limitations is crucial. They should research the availability of medical facilities, the drive times, and the accessibility of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services. They should also consider the potential financial implications of transportation costs and the impact on their overall well-being.

The Lung Cancer Score for 23827 is not merely a numerical value. It represents the lived experience of individuals battling lung cancer in a rural setting. It highlights the importance of addressing the transportation challenges they face and ensuring that all residents of Boykins have equitable access to the care they deserve. This requires a multifaceted approach, including efforts to improve public transportation, expand the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and provide financial assistance to patients struggling with transportation costs.