23898, Zuni, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23898, Zuni, Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.78 percent of residents in 23898 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.00 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Zuni, Virginia (ZIP Code 23898)

The seemingly tranquil landscape of Zuni, Virginia (ZIP Code 23898), belies a critical challenge: the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific geographic area, examines the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents seeking timely and effective medical care. This is crucial for anyone moving to Zuni, as it directly impacts their quality of life, especially during a health crisis.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for those needing to commute to healthcare facilities, specifically those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. This score will help inform individuals about the reality of healthcare access in this rural community.

The primary healthcare hubs serving Zuni are located in Suffolk and Franklin, Virginia. The drive to these locations is the most common mode of transportation. From Zuni, the journey to Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk typically involves navigating along **US-58** East, a major artery that connects the town to the larger city. This drive, depending on traffic conditions, usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes.

The route to Franklin, and the Southampton Memorial Hospital, also utilizes **US-58**, but in a westerly direction. The drive time is slightly longer, generally ranging from 30 to 40 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can become significant barriers during emergencies or for frequent appointments, such as those required for chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The condition of the roads and potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, further complicates the commute.

Public transportation options in Zuni are limited. The Suffolk Transit system offers bus routes, but they are infrequent and do not directly serve Zuni. Residents would need to travel to Suffolk to access these routes, adding considerable time and complexity to their journey. Information on route numbers and ADA accessibility is scarce, and the lack of a robust public transit system is a significant drawback for individuals without personal vehicles. This is a major consideration for anyone moving to Zuni and relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban environments. Availability can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand (like medical appointments) can make them an expensive option. The reliability of these services, particularly for time-sensitive medical appointments, remains a concern. This adds to the overall transportation burden for those with a lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, offer a more tailored solution. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) may provide services in the Zuni area. These services typically involve pre-arranged transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking, which can be a challenge during unexpected health events.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Zuni, Virginia, is influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are relatively short, offering a baseline of accessibility. However, the limitations of public transportation, the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the expense of medical transportation options significantly reduce the overall score.

The lack of diverse transportation options creates a vulnerability for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The stress of navigating these transportation hurdles can exacerbate the emotional and physical challenges of treatment. This is especially true for those without family support or the financial resources to cover transportation costs.

For someone considering moving to Zuni, these transportation challenges should be carefully considered. The availability of a personal vehicle is almost essential. The ability to navigate the roadways independently is a significant advantage. Researching and planning for transportation needs, including potential reliance on medical transport services, is crucial.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Zuni is moderate, leaning towards a lower rating. While healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transportation create significant barriers to healthcare access.

This score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning for those living in or considering moving to Zuni. Individuals should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, establish relationships with healthcare providers, and develop contingency plans for unexpected medical needs.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. This includes advocating for increased public transportation services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, and promoting awareness of available medical transportation resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the realities faced by individuals in Zuni seeking healthcare. It highlights the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective medical care. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a crucial component of the healthcare journey, and addressing the challenges identified in this analysis is essential for improving the lives of those affected by lung cancer in Zuni, Virginia.