24095, Goodview, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24095, Goodview, Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.18 percent of residents in 24095 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Medical Center with a distance of 11.19 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 24095**

The picturesque community of Goodview, Virginia, nestled within ZIP Code 24095, offers residents a tranquil lifestyle. However, the serene environment belies the complexities of accessing vital healthcare services, especially for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up delves into the intricate web of transportation options available, assessing their impact on healthcare access, and ultimately, providing a “Lung Cancer Score” to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. The score will consider drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing alternatives, offering a comprehensive perspective for those considering moving to Goodview.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 24095 is the ability to reach medical facilities. For many, this means relying on personal vehicles. The primary artery for transportation is U.S. Route 221, which snakes through the heart of Goodview, providing direct access to neighboring towns and cities. Interstate 81, a major north-south thoroughfare, lies a short drive away, offering connections to larger medical centers in Roanoke and beyond. The drive time to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, the drive to LewisGale Medical Center in Salem, another prominent healthcare facility, is approximately 15 to 20 minutes via U.S. Route 460 and Interstate 81.

Navigating the local roadways is generally straightforward. However, during peak commuting hours, traffic congestion can impact drive times, particularly on U.S. Route 221 and the ramps connecting to Interstate 81. The absence of significant public transit options presents a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. This underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation methods when assessing healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 24095 are limited. The Roanoke Valley Area Transit (Valley MetroMetro) provides bus service throughout the region, but routes directly serving Goodview are sparse. The primary route serving the area is Route 10, which connects to downtown Roanoke. However, the frequency of this route is limited, and the travel time to Roanoke, where many specialized medical services are located, can be lengthy. The lack of comprehensive public transit options poses a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on Valley Metro buses is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. All Valley Metro buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still create challenges for individuals with disabilities seeking timely access to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services are generally available in the Roanoke Valley, including Goodview. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing can also fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The reliability of these services is crucial for ensuring timely arrival at medical appointments, especially when facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, often provided by specialized companies or healthcare facilities, offer a more tailored approach to patient transportation. They typically provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring the patient's comfort and safety. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services can vary, and advance booking is often required.

Considering the factors outlined above, we can begin to formulate a “Lung Cancer Score” for residents of 24095. This score aims to reflect the ease with which individuals can access healthcare services, particularly those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The score will be based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest access.

The primary consideration in determining the score is drive time to major healthcare facilities. The relatively short drive times to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and LewisGale Medical Center, both within a 30-minute radius, contribute positively to the score. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours introduce some challenges.

The limited public transit options significantly impact the score. The infrequent service and lengthy travel times on Route 10, combined with the lack of direct routes to many medical facilities, create a barrier for individuals without personal vehicles. This factor lowers the overall score.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a valuable alternative, but the cost and potential for fluctuations in availability must be considered. This factor provides a moderate boost to the score.

The presence of medical transportation services, while offering a specialized solution, is also a factor. The availability and cost of these services can vary, but their existence provides an additional layer of support for patients requiring assistance with transportation.

Considering these factors, the “Lung Cancer Score” for 24095 is a 6 out of 10. The relatively short drive times to major healthcare facilities are a positive factor. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents. The score reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, with room for improvement in public transportation and the availability of affordable transportation alternatives.

For individuals considering moving to Goodview and concerned about healthcare access, this score provides a realistic assessment. While the community offers a pleasant environment, potential residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and explore all available options. This includes assessing the practicality of personal vehicles, the potential for ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services.

Furthermore, individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should proactively research the specific healthcare services available in the area. This includes identifying pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, as well as understanding the transportation options to reach these providers.

In conclusion, while 24095 offers a generally favorable environment, the “Lung Cancer Score” highlights the need for careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. By understanding the available options and proactively planning for their healthcare needs, residents can navigate the complexities of accessing essential medical services and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. The community’s proximity to major medical centers is a significant advantage, but the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate a comprehensive approach to healthcare access.