24319, Chilhowie, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24319, Chilhowie, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.57 percent of residents in 24319 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Smyth County Community Hospital with a distance of 11.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chilhowie, Virginia (ZIP Code 24319)

Considering a move to the charming town of Chilhowie, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Smyth County? While the allure of small-town living and scenic beauty is undeniable, understanding the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 24319, offering insights for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a picture of the healthcare landscape you’ll encounter.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but a framework for evaluating the ease with which someone in Chilhowie can access vital lung cancer-related healthcare. Factors like proximity to specialists, treatment centers, and the reliability of transportation significantly influence the score. The lower the score, the better the access. We'll examine these factors through the lens of transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access.

Chilhowie, a town of roughly 1,700 residents, is primarily served by **Interstate 81**, the major north-south artery of the region. **US Route 11** parallels I-81, offering a more scenic, but often slower, alternative. Local roads like **State Route 107** and **State Route 91** connect Chilhowie to surrounding communities and medical facilities.

For a lung cancer patient, timely access to specialists is paramount. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, requiring travel. The drive to **Bristol Regional Medical Center** in Bristol, Tennessee, a facility with oncology services, is approximately 45 minutes via I-81 South. This drive, while manageable, can be stressful for a patient undergoing treatment.

Further afield, **Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital** in Roanoke, Virginia, boasts a renowned cancer center. The journey to Roanoke, a drive of roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes via I-81 North, presents a significant time commitment. This extended travel time underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

Public transit in Chilhowie is extremely limited. Smyth County lacks a robust public transportation system. There are no fixed-route buses serving the town. This lack of public transportation presents a major hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles, making healthcare access significantly more challenging. Elderly residents and those with disabilities face the most significant barriers.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, though their presence in Chilhowie is sporadic. Availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular appointments and treatments would be precarious. The cost of these services can also quickly become a burden.

Medical transportation services offer a lifeline for those unable to drive or lacking access to other forms of transportation. Companies like **Med-Trans Corporation** and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services, while invaluable, require advance booking and can be costly. Their availability might also be limited, especially during peak demand.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Chilhowie, considering the transportation landscape, is moderate. While the proximity to Bristol offers some access, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing create challenges. The extended travel time to Roanoke for more specialized care further compounds the difficulties.

For individuals considering moving to Chilhowie and those already residing there, careful planning is essential. Prioritize establishing a strong support network to assist with transportation. Explore the possibility of carpooling with neighbors or friends for appointments. Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services in advance.

The local healthcare infrastructure includes the **Smyth County Community Hospital** in Marion, approximately a 20-minute drive from Chilhowie via I-81. While this hospital provides general medical services, it may not offer specialized lung cancer treatment. Patients will likely need to travel to Bristol or Roanoke for comprehensive care.

The lack of robust public transportation highlights the need for community initiatives. Advocacy for increased public transit options, even if limited, could significantly improve healthcare access. Partnering with local organizations to provide transportation assistance to patients would also be beneficial.

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a disease like lung cancer, is a complex one. In Chilhowie, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. While the scenic beauty and small-town charm are undeniable, prospective residents must carefully weigh the healthcare access considerations. By understanding the transportation realities and proactively planning, individuals can navigate the healthcare system and receive the care they need.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic concept. As healthcare infrastructure evolves and transportation options improve, the score will shift. Staying informed about local resources, advocating for improved access, and planning for transportation needs are vital steps in ensuring a positive healthcare experience in Chilhowie.