24225, Cleveland, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24225, Cleveland, Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.83 percent of residents in 24225 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell County Hospital with a distance of 5.04 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24225**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for residents and prospective movers alike, especially when facing a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 24225, offering a nuanced perspective on the ease and challenges of accessing lung cancer treatment. Our aim is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the relative accessibility of care, factoring in commute times, transportation options, and the availability of specialized medical services. This score will be a valuable tool for individuals considering a move to Cleveland, or those already residing in the area, seeking the best possible healthcare access.

ZIP code 24225, encompassing the town of Cleveland, Virginia, presents a unique transportation profile. Its rural character influences the available options for reaching healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in lung cancer treatment. The dominant mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, necessitating a deep understanding of drive times and road conditions. Public transportation, while present, is limited in scope, and ride-sharing services may have restricted availability.

The primary artery for travel within and beyond 24225 is **U.S. Route 58**, a major east-west thoroughfare. This highway offers the most direct route to larger towns and cities where comprehensive healthcare facilities are located. Driving east on Route 58 leads towards Abingdon, Virginia, approximately a 30-minute drive, providing access to the **Ballad Health System**, a regional healthcare provider with a network of hospitals and clinics. The drive time can vary based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the healthcare facility within Abingdon.

Traveling west on Route 58 offers access to the town of Lebanon, Virginia, about a 20-minute drive. While Lebanon has some local healthcare facilities, they may not offer the specialized services required for lung cancer treatment. For more advanced care, residents of 24225 often need to travel further afield.

Secondary roads, such as **Virginia Route 80** and **Virginia Route 16**, serve as connectors, providing access to various points within the region. These roads, while scenic, can be winding and may have slower speed limits, potentially increasing travel times. Their condition can also be affected by weather, particularly during the winter months.

Public transportation options within 24225 are limited. The **Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission (CPPDC)** offers a demand-response public transit service, which requires advance booking. This service is designed to provide transportation for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential errands. However, its availability and scheduling may not always align with the urgent needs of a lung cancer patient. Information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility should be confirmed with the CPPDC directly, as availability can fluctuate.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited presence in 24225. Their availability depends on driver density and demand. Patients relying on these services should plan in advance and consider the potential for longer wait times or the need to pre-schedule rides.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer an alternative. Companies like **Care Ride** and **MedRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility devices. These services can be particularly valuable for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects that impact their ability to drive. However, they often require pre-booking and can incur significant costs.

The availability of lung cancer specialists within a reasonable distance is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. The closest facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical services, are primarily located in Abingdon and Bristol, Virginia. These facilities are accessible via Route 58, but the drive times can be a significant factor for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

For individuals considering moving to Cleveland, Virginia (ZIP code 24225), the transportation landscape significantly impacts healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential for restricted ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents should factor in commute times to specialized healthcare facilities, the availability of medical transportation options, and the potential for increased travel costs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 24225 will reflect these factors. It will be a composite score, considering drive times to specialized care facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. A higher score will indicate better healthcare access, while a lower score will highlight the challenges faced by residents in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer treatment.

In conclusion, the transportation infrastructure in and around ZIP code 24225 presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals seeking lung cancer care. While the primary access route, Route 58, offers a relatively direct path to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential for restricted ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration. The "Lung Cancer Score" will serve as a valuable tool for assessing the relative accessibility of care, guiding individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the potential impact of moving to Cleveland. This analysis underscores the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available transportation options, and prioritizing healthcare access when making critical life decisions.