24015, Roanoke, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24015, Roanoke, Virginia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.55 percent of residents in 24015 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Medical Center with a distance of 2.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 24015

The air hangs thick with anticipation for those contemplating a move to Roanoke, Virginia, specifically within the boundaries of ZIP Code 24015. This area, a tapestry woven with residential streets and bustling commercial corridors, presents a unique landscape for navigating healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. This analysis delves into the critical element of transportation, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities.

Our focus is on the practical realities of getting to and from appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Roanoke, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making and ensuring a smooth transition to a new community.

ZIP Code 24015, nestled in the heart of Roanoke, boasts a mix of urban and suburban environments. The primary arteries of transportation are Interstate 581 (I-581), connecting to Interstate 81 (I-81), and US Route 220 (US-220), also known as Franklin Road. These roadways are critical for accessing major healthcare providers, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times and, consequently, the Lung Cancer Score.

**Drive Times and the Lung Cancer Score**

The cornerstone of our score is drive-time analysis. The primary healthcare destinations for lung cancer care in the Roanoke Valley include Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (CRMH) and LewisGale Medical Center. CRMH, located at 2103 S Jefferson St, is a major regional medical center. LewisGale, situated at 1900 Electric Rd, is another significant player.

From various points within 24015, drive times to these facilities fluctuate considerably. A resident living near the intersection of Brambleton Avenue and Colonial Avenue may experience a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes to CRMH during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this could easily extend to 20-30 minutes, impacting the Lung Cancer Score negatively. The same principle applies to LewisGale, with a typical drive of 15-20 minutes under normal conditions, potentially stretching to 25-35 minutes during peak traffic.

The score reflects these variations. A higher score indicates shorter, more reliable drive times, contributing to better healthcare access. Conversely, a lower score suggests longer, less predictable travel times, potentially hindering timely access to care. The presence of traffic incidents, road closures, or inclement weather further complicates the equation, influencing the Lung Cancer Score's dynamic nature.

**Public Transit: A Vital Alternative**

Roanoke's public transit system, operated by Valley MetroMetro, offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve ZIP Code 24015, providing access to CRMH and LewisGale. The primary routes of interest are Route 10 (Williamson Road), Route 20 (Franklin Road), and Route 30 (Brambleton Avenue).

Route 10, for example, travels along Williamson Road, offering a connection to downtown Roanoke and, by extension, access to CRMH. Route 20 runs along Franklin Road, providing access to LewisGale. Route 30 serves the Brambleton Avenue corridor, connecting to various points within 24015 and offering transfer options to reach medical facilities.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the accessibility and reliability of these routes. The frequency of service, the availability of real-time tracking, and the presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features are all factored in. A higher score is awarded to routes with frequent service, real-time tracking, and accessible features, enhancing the convenience and usability of public transit.

However, public transit in Roanoke, while valuable, presents certain limitations. Travel times are often longer than driving, and transfers may be required. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges these challenges, providing a balanced assessment of public transit's role in healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

The rise of ride-share services like Uber and Lyft has significantly impacted transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability and affordability of ride-share services within 24015.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, also play a crucial role. These services, such as Care Ride or First Transit, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the availability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of these services, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance.

The Lung Cancer Score recognizes the importance of these alternative transportation methods, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. A higher score is awarded to areas with readily available and affordable ride-share and medical transportation options, promoting greater healthcare access.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure, influenced by several factors. Traffic patterns, weather conditions, and the availability of transportation services all contribute to its fluctuations. The score is designed to be a snapshot of the current transportation landscape, providing a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Roanoke and assessing their healthcare access.

The score is not static; it is a living assessment, reflecting the ever-changing nature of transportation. It is crucial to consult real-time traffic data, public transit schedules, and ride-share availability when planning travel to medical appointments.

**The Importance of Context**

The Lung Cancer Score is just one piece of the puzzle when considering healthcare access. It is essential to also evaluate the availability of specialists, the quality of care, and the overall healthcare environment in Roanoke. The score provides a starting point for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP Code 24015.

Understanding the nuances of transportation is critical for anyone navigating the complexities of healthcare, especially for those facing the challenges of lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score is designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring they can access the care they need with minimal transportation-related stress. It's about providing a clearer picture of what it means to move to Roanoke and ensuring that healthcare access is a priority.