24011, Roanoke, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24011, Roanoke, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.75 percent of residents in 24011 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Medical Center with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 24011

Considering a move to Roanoke, Virginia, and worried about healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment? This Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 24011 will help you understand the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing potentially life-saving care. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone considering a move, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer.

Understanding the nuances of transportation is vital. Early detection and prompt treatment are paramount in lung cancer management. Therefore, the efficiency and reliability of your transportation options directly affect your healthcare access. This score considers the time it takes to reach key medical facilities, the availability of various transportation modes, and the accessibility features offered.

Roanoke City, encompassing ZIP Code 24011, offers a blend of urban and suburban living. Its transportation infrastructure, while functional, requires careful consideration, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those relying solely on public transit. The score will assess these factors to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time to Healthcare:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 24011 is undoubtedly the automobile. Several major medical facilities, including Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Carilion Clinic Cancer Center, and LewisGale Medical Center, are critical for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The drive times to these facilities are a crucial element of our score.

From various points within 24011, the journey to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, the primary regional hospital, typically involves navigating city streets and major roadways. Accessing the hospital from the northern parts of 24011 often involves using Williamson Road (Route 117), a major artery, which can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. The average drive time under normal conditions is approximately 10 to 20 minutes.

Reaching the Carilion Clinic Cancer Center, located near Roanoke Memorial Hospital, involves similar routes. The drive time is generally comparable. However, traffic congestion on Williamson Road and adjacent streets can significantly impact these times, particularly during morning and evening commutes.

LewisGale Medical Center, situated further south, presents a different challenge. Reaching it from 24011 necessitates using the Interstate 581 (I-581) and the US Route 220 (US-220). The drive time varies, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-581 and US-220. Accidents or construction can substantially increase these travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Option:**

Roanoke's public transportation system, operated by Valley MetroMetro, offers a limited but important alternative to driving. The system’s bus routes are available to those in 24011. However, its coverage is not as extensive as some larger metropolitan areas.

Several Valley Metro bus routes serve the 24011 ZIP code. Route 32, for instance, provides service along Williamson Road, offering access to various points within the city, including some areas near Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Route 30 serves the area around Towers Shopping Center.

The frequency of these routes varies, with reduced service on weekends and evenings. This limited frequency can pose challenges for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. The Valley Metro website provides detailed route maps and schedules, essential for planning your healthcare transportation.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor. Valley Metro is committed to providing accessible services. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities. Passengers can also request assistance from drivers. However, it is advisable to check the specific route and bus schedule for accessibility features before traveling.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Roanoke, offering another transportation option, especially for those without access to a personal vehicle. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in certain areas of 24011. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for appointments, but costs can accumulate.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including those related to lung cancer treatment. Several medical transport providers operate in the Roanoke area.

Medicaid and Medicare often cover medical transport services for eligible individuals. These services provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and comfortably.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **First Transit:** Provides specialized transportation services, including medical transport.
* **Roanoke Valley Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation.

**Lung Cancer Score Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 24011 reflects the interplay of these factors. Drive times, while generally manageable, are subject to traffic. Public transit, while accessible, has limited coverage and frequency. Ride-sharing and medical transport provide additional options, but their availability and cost vary.

For individuals with a car, the score is relatively favorable, with access to major medical facilities within a reasonable drive time. However, those reliant on public transit or with mobility limitations face greater challenges. The score acknowledges the importance of planning and considering all available transportation options.

**Recommendations for Moving to Roanoke:**

Before moving to Roanoke, especially if you have concerns about lung cancer, consider the following:

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive, your reliance on public transit, and your need for specialized medical transport.
* **Research your proximity to medical facilities:** Determine the distance from your potential residence to hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Explore available transportation options:** Familiarize yourself with Valley Metro routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.
* **Plan for potential traffic delays:** Factor in potential delays when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Consult with your healthcare provider:** Discuss your transportation needs and any potential challenges.

Moving to Roanoke offers access to quality healthcare. However, understanding the transportation landscape is vital for ensuring timely and convenient access to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This Lung Cancer Score provides a starting point for making informed decisions about your move and prioritizing your health.