The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24161, Sandy Level, Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
19.20 percent of residents in 24161 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.98 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 24161, Sandy Level, Virginia
| Lung Cancer Score | 40 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 84 |
| Provider Score | 21 |
| Hospital Score | 49 |
| Travel Score | 25 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 24161 | Sandy Level | Virginia |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.76 |
| 1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.70 |
| 2 Cars | 10.40 | 10.40 | 40.01 |
| 3 or More Cars | 89.60 | 89.60 | 38.53 |
Vehicular Access in 24161, Sandy Level, Virginia
## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sandy Level, Virginia (ZIP Code 24161)
Sandy Level, Virginia, a community nestled in the heart of Pittsylvania County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. For residents, the journey to receive timely and effective lung cancer care involves navigating a complex web of transportation options. This assessment, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, evaluates the ease with which individuals can access vital medical services, considering the specific challenges and opportunities inherent in the region. This is a critical element for anyone considering moving to Sandy Level.
The primary challenge for residents of 24161 is the relative scarcity of immediate healthcare resources within the ZIP code itself. This necessitates travel to larger population centers, primarily Danville, Martinsville, and sometimes even Roanoke, for specialized care, including lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This reliance on external facilities significantly impacts the overall Lung Cancer Score, as transportation becomes a pivotal factor in healthcare access.
**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**
The most common mode of transportation for residents is personal vehicles. The drive to Danville, the closest hub for significant medical facilities, typically involves a journey along US-58. Depending on the specific location within 24161, the drive can range from 20 to 40 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This is the primary route for those seeking care at the Danville Regional Medical Center, which offers a range of oncology services.
Further afield, Martinsville, accessible via US-220, provides another option, with drive times also varying between 30 to 50 minutes. This route is particularly relevant for those seeking services at the SOVAH Health - Martinsville. For more specialized care, or access to advanced clinical trials, the journey to Roanoke, roughly 90 to 120 minutes away via US-220 and I-81, becomes necessary. This longer commute adds significant stress and potential barriers to care, impacting the overall Lung Cancer Score.
The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also affect drive times. Residents must be prepared for potential delays due to snow, ice, or heavy rainfall, especially during the winter months. This underscores the importance of reliable vehicles and careful planning.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in 24161 are extremely limited. The primary provider, the Danville Transit System, primarily serves the city of Danville and its immediate surroundings. While there might be limited routes extending towards the outskirts, they are unlikely to directly serve many areas within 24161. The frequency of these routes is also often low, making them unsuitable for urgent medical appointments.
Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on these infrequent routes is uncertain, potentially creating additional barriers for individuals with mobility limitations. This lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is an important consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Sandy Level.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are present in the Danville and Martinsville areas, though their availability in the more rural parts of 24161 might be limited. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions, also requires careful consideration.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private medical transportation companies. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability might be limited, requiring advance booking. This is a critical factor influencing the Lung Cancer Score.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The Lung Cancer Score for 24161 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors. The score is negatively impacted by the distance to major medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some mitigation, but their cost and availability remain concerns.
The overall score also considers the availability of lung cancer screening programs and the presence of oncology specialists in the nearby healthcare facilities. The Danville Regional Medical Center and SOVAH Health – Martinsville provide essential services, but the journey times still present a challenge. The score also accounts for the potential impact of socioeconomic factors, such as income and insurance coverage, which can affect access to transportation and healthcare.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Challenges**
For residents of 24161, accessing timely and effective lung cancer care demands careful planning and resourcefulness. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance and emergency preparedness. Exploring the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is crucial.
The Lung Cancer Score highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the region. This includes advocating for enhanced public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-share providers, and supporting initiatives that promote early detection and treatment of lung cancer. This is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Sandy Level, ensuring they are aware of the healthcare landscape.
Ultimately, the ability to navigate these transportation challenges directly impacts the prognosis and quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. A robust healthcare access system is paramount. This analysis emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making and proactive healthcare planning for all residents of 24161.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like