24128, Newport, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24128, Newport, Virginia is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.41 percent of residents in 24128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Hospital Montgomery with a distance of 10.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Newport, VA (ZIP Code 24128)

Considering a move to Newport, Virginia (ZIP Code 24128)? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on lung cancer treatment and the *transportation* infrastructure available to residents. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to help you understand the practical realities of accessing potentially life-saving care. This is not a medical diagnosis, but an informational guide.

The ability to reach timely and quality medical care is paramount, especially when facing a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis considers the major healthcare facilities in the region, their proximity to Newport, and the various ways a patient can get there. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of *healthcare access* within the context of your daily life, informing your decision about *moving to Newport*.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Open Road to Care**

Newport, nestled in the heart of Giles County, is primarily served by a network of roads. The primary arteries for reaching major medical centers are US Route 460 and Virginia State Route 42. For those in Newport, the most direct route to Roanoke, home to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, often involves taking US-460 East.

The drive to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major regional medical center with comprehensive cancer care, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a significant consideration, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The drive itself is relatively straightforward, but potential delays due to accidents or construction on US-460 are always a factor.

Another crucial destination is LewisGale Medical Center in Salem, Virginia. While LewisGale offers cancer treatment, the drive time is similar to Roanoke, approximately 45-60 minutes, primarily via US-460 East and I-81 North. This route presents similar traffic considerations.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices may be closer, potentially within a 20-30 minute drive. However, for advanced lung cancer care, the larger hospitals in Roanoke and Salem are often the preferred choice. The reliability of personal *transportation* becomes critical.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public *transportation* options in the area are limited. The New River Valley TransitValley Transit (NRV Transit) offers bus services, but the routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. Service to Roanoke is infrequent, and the routes are not direct, often requiring multiple transfers.

The NRV Transit system does have ADA-accessible buses, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of frequent service and the circuitous routes make public transit a challenging option for patients needing regular cancer treatment. The bus numbers and schedules are readily available on the NRV Transit website, but should be thoroughly investigated.

The practicality of using public transit for cancer care in Newport is questionable. The time commitment, the need for transfers, and the potential for delays make it a less desirable choice for many patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering another *transportation* alternative. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas outside of the major population centers. The cost of frequent rides to Roanoke or Salem can also become a significant financial burden.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are available. These services typically provide door-to-door *transportation* and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Companies like MedRide and CareRide operate in the region, offering specialized services.

The cost of medical *transportation* is generally higher than ride-sharing, but it offers a more reliable and patient-focused solution. Patients should research available providers and understand the associated costs, insurance coverage, and scheduling procedures. This is a critical component of *healthcare access*.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Newport, VA (24128) is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing lung cancer care. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. The 45-60 minute drive to Roanoke and Salem is manageable, but requires reliable *transportation* and can be stressful for patients.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The lack of direct and frequent bus service makes public transit an impractical option for most patients.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable. Availability and cost are factors to consider.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Offers a reliable, albeit more expensive, option.
* **Overall Accessibility:** Moderate. While access to quality care is available, it requires planning, reliable *transportation*, and potentially significant financial resources.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For individuals considering *moving to Newport*, the availability of *healthcare access* is a critical factor. While the region offers access to quality lung cancer care, the *transportation* challenges are significant.

Patients should carefully assess their *transportation* needs and explore all available options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical *transportation*. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with various *transportation* choices is essential.

The decision to relocate to Newport should be made with a clear understanding of these realities. Careful planning and proactive arrangements are crucial for ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving lung cancer treatment. Thorough research into *healthcare access* options is paramount.