24330, Fries, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24330, Fries, Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.92 percent of residents in 24330 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wythe County Community Hospital with a distance of 16.55 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fries, Virginia (ZIP Code 24330)

The crisp mountain air of Fries, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge, offers a certain allure. But when considering a move, especially for those with health concerns like lung cancer, the practicalities of **healthcare access** become paramount. This write-up explores the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 24330, focusing on **transportation** options to and from medical facilities, crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Fries, a small town, presents unique challenges. The nearest major medical centers are located in Galax, Wytheville, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina, necessitating travel. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the ease – or difficulty – of accessing vital healthcare.

The primary mode of transportation for most Fries residents is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to Galax, approximately 15 miles away, utilizes **Highway 94** and **Main Street**. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose a challenge, potentially extending travel times.

For those seeking more comprehensive cancer care, the larger medical facilities in Wytheville, about 40 miles distant, offer a wider range of specialists and advanced treatment options. The journey involves navigating **Highway 94** to **Interstate 77 North**, then exiting onto **US-21 South**. This trip typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. Again, weather conditions can significantly impact this commute.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, home to the comprehensive cancer center at Wake Forest Baptist Health, is a more distant option, roughly 75 miles away. The drive involves **Highway 94** to **Interstate 77 South**, then **US-52 South**. This journey can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a considerable time commitment for regular appointments.

Public transit options are limited in Fries. The local transportation system, if any, is likely to be a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is scarce. Residents needing public transit will likely have to rely on informal arrangements or potentially utilize intercity bus services, which may not directly serve Fries or offer convenient access to medical facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence in Fries is likely sporadic. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments would necessitate careful planning and potentially involve significant wait times.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, offer a valuable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than personal transportation or ride-sharing.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fries, Virginia, reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. While the proximity to Galax offers some convenience, accessing more specialized care requires longer travel times. The limited public transit options and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services highlight the reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services.

For individuals considering **moving to Fries**, the score emphasizes the importance of careful planning. Those with existing or potential lung cancer diagnoses should assess their ability to manage the travel demands associated with treatment and follow-up care. This includes considering the availability of family support, the feasibility of utilizing medical transportation services, and the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times.

The quality of life in Fries, with its scenic beauty and close-knit community, is undeniable. However, the practicalities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** must be carefully weighed. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide a clear-eyed assessment of the challenges, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in this unique Appalachian community.

The score also underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** in rural areas. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of telehealth initiatives to reduce the need for frequent travel.

The decision to move to Fries is a personal one. This analysis serves as a crucial factor in the decision-making process, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to improve the healthcare landscape in Fries, ensuring that residents have the support they need to thrive.