24153, Salem, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24153, Salem, Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.81 percent of residents in 24153 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Medical Center with a distance of 5.67 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 24153

The journey to healthcare, a critical component of well-being, takes on heightened significance when considering a diagnosis like lung cancer. In ZIP Code 24153, Salem, Virginia, this journey involves evaluating the accessibility of specialized medical care, particularly for oncology, through a complex web of transportation options. Understanding these options is crucial for residents, prospective movers, and those seeking to improve their healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for 24153, considering the available transportation infrastructure.

The foundation of healthcare access in Salem, Virginia, rests on its road network. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. The primary arteries are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south corridor, and U.S. Route 460 (US-460), which runs east-west. These highways provide the initial framework for accessing healthcare facilities. From 24153, the drive to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a primary center for cancer care, typically involves traveling on I-81 North to exit 146, a journey of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Local roads, such as Roanoke Avenue, Thompson Memorial Drive, and Main Street, offer access to smaller clinics and physician offices within Salem. These routes, however, can be subject to congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting the timeliness of appointments or emergency care. The efficiency of these routes contributes significantly to the Lung Cancer Score, as timely access to diagnostic tests, treatment, and follow-up appointments is paramount in managing this disease.

Public transportation, while present, plays a more limited role in healthcare access in 24153. The Roanoke Valley MetroMetro operates a bus system, but its routes and frequency may not be ideally suited for the specific needs of cancer patients. Route 20, for example, provides service along Main Street, offering some connection to healthcare facilities. However, the limited service hours, particularly on weekends and evenings, could pose challenges. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations.

The Roanoke Valley Metro website provides detailed information about ADA accessibility. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of ramps, lifts, and other features to ensure that all patients can access public transportation. The effectiveness of public transit in this context hinges on its ability to connect patients to cancer centers, radiology facilities, and other essential services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services are readily available in the Roanoke Valley and can provide door-to-door transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor for patients facing financial burdens due to medical expenses. The availability of these services, coupled with their affordability, is a factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and others provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who cannot drive or require assistance with mobility. The availability and reliability of these services contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score, especially for those with limited mobility.

The journey to healthcare is not just about physical distance; it's also about the time it takes to reach the destination. Traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times. The Lung Cancer Score takes into account the typical travel times to major healthcare facilities, considering potential delays due to traffic congestion. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly is critical for early diagnosis, timely treatment, and improved patient outcomes.

When considering a move to Salem, Virginia, and the 24153 ZIP code, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk for lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score provides a valuable assessment of healthcare access, considering the various transportation options available. This score should be a critical factor in the decision-making process.

The quality of healthcare access is not solely dependent on the presence of medical facilities; it also depends on the ease with which patients can reach them. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, assesses the efficiency and accessibility of transportation options. The availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation services can significantly impact the quality of life for cancer patients.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of parking at healthcare facilities. Sufficient parking, especially for patients with mobility issues, is essential for a smooth and stress-free experience. The availability of designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities and the proximity of parking to the main entrances of medical facilities are crucial factors in the overall score.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score incorporates the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist patients in coordinating transportation and managing appointments. These services can play a vital role in ensuring that patients have access to the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure, influenced by changes in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of healthcare services, and the availability of support programs. Regular updates are essential to reflect the evolving healthcare landscape.

The Lung Cancer Score for 24153, therefore, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the drive times on I-81 and US-460, the accessibility of public transit (Metro Route 20), the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. The score also factors in traffic conditions, parking availability, and the availability of support services. This comprehensive evaluation provides a valuable insight into the ease with which residents of 24153 can access specialized care for lung cancer.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for 24153 reflects a landscape where driving is the dominant mode of transportation to healthcare, with I-81 and US-460 as key arteries. Public transit, while present, has limitations. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternative solutions. The overall score emphasizes the importance of efficient transportation for timely access to cancer care, highlighting the need for ongoing evaluation and improvement in healthcare access for the residents of Salem, Virginia.