23457, Virginia Beach, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 23457, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.88 percent of residents in 23457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chesapeake General Hospital with a distance of 14.22 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23457

Considering a move to Virginia Beach, specifically the 23457 ZIP code? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, focusing on prostate cancer treatment options and the transportation landscape that connects you to them. Understanding the "Prostate Cancer Score" here involves evaluating drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options. It's about ensuring seamless access to essential medical care, especially crucial for individuals navigating prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The 23457 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area of Virginia Beach, offering a blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial hubs. This geographic spread significantly impacts healthcare access, making transportation a pivotal factor. The journey to quality prostate cancer care isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the ease and reliability of getting there.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways in 23457, including **Virginia Beach Boulevard** and **Independence Boulevard**, serve as vital arteries for accessing medical facilities. Drive times to major hospitals and specialized cancer centers vary depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Expect a 15- to 30-minute drive to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, a prominent healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer services.

**Interstate 264** provides a faster route for those living closer to the highway, offering a direct connection to the broader Hampton Roads region. However, congestion can be a major hurdle, particularly during rush hour. **Route 44** is another major thoroughfare, providing access to various medical facilities, but again, traffic can significantly impact travel times.

For those residing in the western portion of 23457, the drive to hospitals located further east can be longer, potentially exceeding 30 minutes. This emphasizes the importance of considering location within the ZIP code when assessing healthcare access. Planning your commute to appointments is paramount.

**Public Transportation:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) operates a network of bus routes throughout Virginia Beach, offering an alternative to driving. Several routes, including **Route 20** (Virginia Beach Boulevard) and **Route 22** (Independence Boulevard), traverse 23457, providing access to medical facilities. However, bus schedules and frequency can be a limiting factor, especially for appointments requiring precise timing.

HRT strives to provide accessible transportation options, with buses equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall reliance on public transit for cancer treatment, which often involves frequent appointments, can be challenging. Consider the time constraints and potential delays when evaluating public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 23457, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, making them particularly useful for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to drive.

Several medical transportation services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Liberty Medical Transportation are available in the Hampton Roads area. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they offer specialized care and support, which can be invaluable for prostate cancer patients.

**Healthcare Access and Prostate Cancer Treatment:**

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and the adjacent Sentara Cancer Center offer comprehensive prostate cancer treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The proximity of these facilities to 23457 is a significant advantage for residents.

Other hospitals, such as Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, are also within a reasonable driving distance, providing additional choices for care. However, the specific treatment options and specialist availability may vary, so it's crucial to research the facilities and physicians that best meet your needs.

**Factors Influencing the Prostate Cancer Score:**

Several factors contribute to the overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for 23457. Drive times to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transport options all play a role.

The ease of navigating these transportation options directly impacts the patient's ability to access timely and effective care. The score also considers the availability of specialized prostate cancer treatment centers and the expertise of the medical professionals in the area.

**Moving to Virginia Beach: Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients:**

For individuals considering a move to Virginia Beach with a history of prostate cancer, careful consideration of healthcare access is essential. Research the location of potential residences within 23457, paying attention to proximity to major roadways and public transit routes.

Assess your transportation needs and preferences. If you prefer to drive, factor in potential traffic delays. If you rely on public transit, familiarize yourself with the bus routes and schedules. Consider the cost and availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options.

**Conclusion:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 23457 is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a range of transportation options and access to quality medical care, the specific circumstances of each individual will influence their experience.

By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape, researching medical facilities, and understanding the available resources, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care in Virginia Beach. This proactive approach is critical for navigating the challenges of prostate cancer and maintaining a high quality of life.