24555, Glasgow, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24555, Glasgow, Virginia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.32 percent of residents in 24555 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital with a distance of 8.85 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glasgow, VA (ZIP Code 24555)

The crisp air of the Shenandoah Valley, the rolling hills of Rockbridge County, and the quiet charm of Glasgow, Virginia (ZIP Code 24555) beckon. However, before settling into this idyllic locale, potential residents, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer, must assess the crucial element of healthcare access. This write-up provides a detailed ‘Lung Cancer Score’ analysis, focusing on the intricacies of transportation to medical facilities, a critical determinant of quality of life and survival rates. We’ll explore the practical realities of getting to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care, offering a nuanced perspective for those contemplating moving to Glasgow.

The primary concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical care. In Glasgow, this translates directly to the distance and ease of transportation to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers and pulmonology specialists. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ considers the following: drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each factor is weighed to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access, enabling informed decisions about where to live and how to manage this serious illness.

Driving remains the most common method of transportation in this rural area. The primary artery for travel is **US Route 501**, which runs directly through Glasgow. This highway offers relatively straightforward access to Lynchburg, approximately 30 miles south, where the Centra Lynchburg General Hospital and the Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center are located. The drive, under ideal conditions, typically takes around 45 minutes. However, traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly extend this commute.

Another crucial route is **US Route 60**, which connects Glasgow to Lexington, roughly 15 miles west. While Lexington offers some local medical services, including the Stonewall Jackson Hospital, it does not have the same level of specialized cancer care available in Lynchburg. The drive to Lexington is generally shorter, about 20-25 minutes, but may not always provide the necessary level of care. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also impact travel times and safety, a critical consideration for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing related complications.

Beyond the main highways, several secondary roads, such as **State Route 130** and **State Route 759**, provide alternative routes. However, these roads are often narrower, winding, and subject to more frequent delays due to accidents or roadwork. Therefore, they are not ideal for regular commutes to medical appointments. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ acknowledges that reliance on personal vehicles is the dominant form of transportation in Glasgow, and the distances to specialized care centers are a significant factor in assessing healthcare access.

Public transportation options are limited in Glasgow and the surrounding area. The Greater Lynchburg Transit Company (GLTC) operates a bus system, but service is primarily focused on the city of Lynchburg. There is no direct public transit route that connects Glasgow to Lynchburg. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

For those who can access the GLTC, the journey would involve a combination of driving to a park-and-ride location, or relying on a friend or family member for a ride. The GLTC bus routes themselves do not typically offer ADA-compliant features such as wheelchair lifts. This lack of accessible public transportation is a serious concern for individuals with mobility limitations. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ reflects the significant limitations of public transit in terms of healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lynchburg area. However, their availability in Glasgow is less consistent and may be subject to longer wait times and higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is therefore questionable. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ recognizes the potential for ride-sharing, but acknowledges its limitations in this rural setting.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies, such as FirstCall Medical Transportation and Medical Transport of Virginia, operate in the region. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, often providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ recognizes the value of medical transport, but acknowledges the financial burden and the need for pre-planning.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for Glasgow, VA (ZIP Code 24555) is influenced by the following factors. The drive times to Lynchburg, while manageable, are subject to traffic and weather conditions. Public transportation is virtually non-existent. Ride-sharing availability is limited and unreliable. Medical transport services are available, but expensive and require pre-planning.

For individuals considering moving to Glasgow, VA, and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, or at risk, the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ highlights the importance of careful planning. It underscores the need to assess personal transportation options, including the availability of a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive. It also emphasizes the importance of establishing a support network to assist with transportation to medical appointments.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the potential financial burden of medical transport services and factor these costs into their budget. They should also investigate the availability of local resources, such as volunteer driver programs or community support groups, that may offer assistance with transportation.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ is not a definitive rating, but a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Glasgow. The ultimate decision of whether or not to move to this community requires a thorough assessment of individual needs, resources, and preferences. For those with lung cancer, or at risk, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape is paramount to receiving timely and effective care. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ offers a valuable perspective in this critical evaluation.