24176, Union Hall, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24176, Union Hall, Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.25 percent of residents in 24176 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.61 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24176 (Union Hall, Virginia)**

The crisp mountain air of Union Hall, Virginia, in ZIP code 24176, offers a serene backdrop for life. Yet, the very tranquility that draws residents to this corner of Franklin County presents a challenge: healthcare access. This analysis unveils the transportation landscape for those seeking lung cancer care, painting a picture of accessibility and highlighting potential hurdles. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Union Hall, weighing the benefits of rural living against the realities of healthcare access.

The primary concern for residents of 24176 is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer care is likely located in Roanoke, a city approximately 40 to 60 miles away, depending on the specific destination. This journey primarily involves navigating the winding roads of the region. The initial leg often entails traversing local roads like Union Hall Road and Callaway Road, eventually connecting to the major arteries.

The most direct route involves utilizing the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, a beautiful but slow route. However, this is not a reliable option for medical transportation. The Parkway is closed during inclement weather and has limited access points.

Alternatively, residents can use Route 220, a major north-south highway. This route offers a more direct path to Roanoke, but it can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. The drive time on Route 220 can vary significantly, ranging from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Another option is to connect to Route 58, a major east-west route, and then head north toward Roanoke.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but the rural nature of the area means that some sections may be narrow or winding. Road closures due to weather or accidents can also disrupt travel. Therefore, reliable transportation is paramount for those facing lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Public transportation options in Union Hall are limited. The Roanoke Valley MetroMetro is the primary public transit provider for the Roanoke metropolitan area. However, its services do not extend into Union Hall. The absence of regular bus routes presents a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This lack of public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for healthcare access.

Furthermore, the Metro system’s accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps and designated seating, are not relevant to Union Hall residents, given the lack of service. For individuals with mobility limitations, this absence of accessible public transit exacerbates the challenge of reaching healthcare facilities. This is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Union Hall.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Roanoke area. However, their availability in Union Hall is less certain. Ride-share services may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves or rely on family members. Several companies operate in the Roanoke area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly. However, they offer a vital solution for those needing regular trips to and from treatment centers.

Companies like Med-Ride and Firstat Medical Transport offer non-emergency medical transportation services in the Roanoke area. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Booking these services in advance is crucial, especially for appointments scheduled during peak hours.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 24176 reflects the cumulative impact of these transportation factors. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and the cost and availability of medical transport services. The score will range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest access.

Given the long drive times, the absence of public transit, the potential limitations of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 24176 is a **4**. This score indicates a moderate level of difficulty in accessing lung cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for travel-related stress can significantly impact the patient's well-being.

For individuals considering moving to Union Hall, this score highlights the importance of careful planning. It is crucial to assess the availability of reliable transportation and factor in the cost and time commitment associated with healthcare access. While the beauty and tranquility of Union Hall are undeniable, prospective residents must weigh these benefits against the realities of healthcare access.

The challenges presented by this score underscore the need for improved healthcare access in rural communities. Telemedicine, community outreach programs, and expanded transportation services could help bridge the gap and ensure that all residents of Union Hall have access to the care they need. This situation is not unique to Union Hall; many rural communities face similar challenges, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to address healthcare disparities.