23890, Waverly, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23890, Waverly, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.46 percent of residents in 23890 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southside Medical Center with a distance of 18.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Waverly, Virginia (ZIP Code 23890)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and in rural communities like Waverly, Virginia (ZIP Code 23890), the availability and accessibility of healthcare become critical determinants of patient outcomes. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, explores the intricate web of transportation options that connect residents to vital medical resources, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Waverly, as healthcare access is paramount.

The primary challenge for residents in ZIP Code 23890 is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in the larger cities of Richmond and Norfolk, Virginia. The journey to these centers, and therefore the potential for timely diagnosis and treatment, is heavily reliant on transportation infrastructure.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary route to Richmond, the state capital, involves navigating **US-460 East** and then connecting to **Interstate 95 North**. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering roughly 80 miles. However, traffic congestion, particularly around Richmond, can significantly extend this time. The return trip, after a long day of appointments or treatments, can be equally taxing.

Alternatively, accessing facilities in Norfolk necessitates traveling south on **US-460 East**, then merging onto **US-58 East** before connecting to **Interstate 64 East**. This route is longer, covering approximately 100 miles, and the drive time, again under optimal circumstances, averages around 2 hours. These extended travel times underscore the importance of early detection and prompt access to care.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The **Hampton Roads Transit (HRT)**, the primary public transit provider for the Hampton Roads region (Norfolk, Virginia Beach, etc.), does not extend its services to Waverly. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive due to health conditions, or have limited financial resources. This lack of options can dramatically affect the ability to receive regular treatments.

The absence of comprehensive public transportation places a heavy reliance on ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. However, the availability of these services in Waverly can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for individuals with limited incomes, further exacerbating the challenges of healthcare access. The reliability of these services is a critical factor.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with transportation. Companies such as **CareRide** and **MedTrans** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offering door-to-door service for medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transportation. However, the availability of these services, and the associated costs, must be considered.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation is a crucial aspect of healthcare access. While ride-sharing services and medical transport companies are generally expected to provide accessible vehicles upon request, the availability of these vehicles may be limited, requiring advance booking. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit options further disadvantages individuals with disabilities.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Waverly must also account for the availability of local healthcare facilities. While Waverly itself may have a primary care clinic, specialized oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, are not typically available in such small towns. This necessitates frequent travel to larger medical centers, adding to the transportation burden.

The financial implications of transportation costs cannot be ignored. The expenses associated with driving (fuel, vehicle maintenance, parking), ride-sharing, or medical transport can place a significant strain on patients and their families, especially those facing the financial burdens of cancer treatment. This financial burden can deter individuals from seeking timely medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it’s a reflection of the complex interplay between geography, infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors. It underscores the importance of proactive measures to improve healthcare access in Waverly. This includes advocating for expanded public transportation options, supporting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation for those in need.

For those considering moving to Waverly, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need to carefully assess their transportation options and healthcare needs. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services must be carefully considered.

The presence of support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, can play a crucial role in mitigating the transportation challenges. These networks can provide assistance with driving, offer emotional support, and help navigate the complexities of healthcare access. The availability of these support systems should be a factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Waverly, Virginia (ZIP Code 23890) reflects a challenging landscape for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport create significant hurdles for residents. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including infrastructure improvements, expanded transportation options, and community-based support systems. This is crucial for improving the health outcomes of individuals affected by lung cancer and ensuring that all residents of Waverly have timely access to the care they need. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration for anyone making the decision to move to Waverly.