24019, Roanoke, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24019, Roanoke, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.24 percent of residents in 24019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Va Medical Center with a distance of 6.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 24019

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is fraught with challenges. This analysis explores the landscape of transportation options for residents of ZIP code 24019, Roanoke, Virginia, focusing on accessibility to lung cancer treatment facilities. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering a move to Roanoke or currently residing within this area, especially those with existing health concerns. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to formulate a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease – or difficulty – of accessing potentially life-saving care.

The 24019 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Roanoke, including neighborhoods like Old Southwest and parts of downtown. Its proximity to major thoroughfares and healthcare facilities is a key factor in determining its healthcare accessibility. The score will consider the practicalities of getting to and from appointments, the availability of alternative transportation, and the overall burden placed on individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many, and the efficiency of this option is directly linked to the location of treatment centers. Car travel is a double-edged sword, offering flexibility but also subjecting patients to potential stress and fatigue. From 24019, access to the primary healthcare providers in the area, Carilion Clinic and LewisGale Medical Center, is generally straightforward.

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, is a relatively short drive from most of 24019. The most direct route often involves using **I-581**, a crucial artery that connects the city. Travel time can vary, but generally, it’s a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic. Rush hour, especially weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly impact this, potentially adding 10-20 minutes to the commute.

LewisGale Medical Center, another option for cancer care, is located in Salem, Virginia. The drive involves using **I-81** and **US-460**. This trip is typically longer, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow. The **Blue Ridge Parkway**, while offering scenic beauty, is not a practical route for regular medical appointments due to its winding roads and limited access points.

Navigating Roanoke’s local roads is also important. **Franklin Road (US-220)**, **Williamson Road (US-11)**, and **Catawba Road** are vital for accessing various parts of the city and its healthcare facilities. These roads can experience congestion during peak hours, so planning travel times accordingly is essential.

**Public Transit: The City’s Veins**

Roanoke's public transit system, known as Valley MetroMetro, provides an alternative to driving. The system operates buses throughout the city, offering routes that connect various neighborhoods to healthcare facilities. However, public transit may not be ideal for all patients.

Several Valley Metro bus routes serve the 24019 area and provide access to healthcare destinations. Route 32, for instance, travels along Franklin Road, passing near Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Route 31, which runs along Williamson Road, offers access to other healthcare facilities. Route 30, which travels along Campbell Avenue, can also be useful for reaching downtown medical offices.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for many lung cancer patients. Valley Metro strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limitation. Waiting times and transfer requirements can add significant travel time, potentially increasing the physical strain on patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Assistance**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand transportation, providing another option for accessing healthcare. These services can be particularly useful for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Availability, however, can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver presence.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, are specifically designed for patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While offering a higher level of care and convenience, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Med-Trans Corporation:** A national provider with potential presence in the Roanoke area.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A major ambulance and medical transportation provider that may operate in the region.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Smaller, regional providers that may offer medical transport services.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 24019 will be a composite measure, factoring in drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to lung cancer care.

* **Drive Time Factor:** Shorter drive times to major treatment centers will positively impact the score. Congestion during peak hours will negatively affect it.
* **Public Transit Factor:** The frequency, accessibility (ADA compliance), and route coverage of Valley Metro will be assessed.
* **Ride-Sharing Factor:** The availability of Uber and Lyft, as well as their cost, will be considered.
* **Medical Transport Factor:** The availability and cost of specialized medical transport services will be included.

**Scoring Example:**

* **Excellent (8-10):** Short drive times, readily available public transit, reliable ride-sharing, and accessible medical transport options.
* **Good (6-7):** Reasonable drive times, good public transit coverage, available ride-sharing, and medical transport options.
* **Fair (4-5):** Moderate drive times, limited public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing, and medical transport available at a higher cost.
* **Poor (2-3):** Long drive times, infrequent public transit, unreliable ride-sharing, and limited medical transport options.
* **Very Poor (0-1):** Extremely long drive times, no viable public transit, no ride-sharing, and no medical transport options.

**Final Assessment:**

The final Lung Cancer Score for 24019 will be determined by weighing these factors. While Roanoke offers a relatively accessible healthcare environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential limitations of public transit and ride-sharing must be considered. The score is intended to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges faced by individuals seeking lung cancer treatment in this area. For those considering moving to Roanoke, it's crucial to evaluate the specific transportation needs based on their individual health conditions and preferences.