23513, Norfolk, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 23513, Norfolk, Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.40 percent of residents in 23513 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc with a distance of 3.89 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23513

Considering a move to Norfolk, Virginia, and specifically the 23513 ZIP code? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," assessing the accessibility of prostate cancer healthcare within your potential new community. This score factors in transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access. Understanding these elements is crucial for informed decision-making, especially when considering long-term health needs.

Your prostate health is paramount, and timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is critical. This assessment focuses on the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments, considering the various transportation options available to residents of 23513. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure.

**The Score's Framework:**

The Prostate Cancer Score is a composite metric. It weighs factors like drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers, the efficiency of public transportation, the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. Each component is assessed and assigned a point value, contributing to an overall score reflecting the ease of accessing prostate cancer healthcare.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Navigating Norfolk’s roadways is a significant factor in healthcare access. The 23513 ZIP code offers varying degrees of convenience. Residents in the northern part of the area, closer to the I-64 corridor, generally have quicker access to healthcare facilities. The I-64 is a major east-west artery, providing a direct route to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and EVMS (Eastern Virginia Medical School) facilities, both crucial for prostate cancer care.

From the heart of 23513, a drive to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a leading cancer treatment center, can take approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The commute involves using local roads like Granby Street, which can experience congestion during peak hours. Alternatively, you might utilize Hampton Boulevard, another major thoroughfare, to connect to the I-64.

The drive to the Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA) at multiple locations, including those near the 23517 ZIP code, typically takes 20-30 minutes, again influenced by traffic conditions. The route might involve using the I-264, a vital east-west highway, and then navigating through local streets.

Living in the southern parts of 23513 might add 5-10 minutes to these drive times, as you'll navigate through more residential areas before reaching the major highways. The time spent on roadways is a crucial component in our assessment.

**Public Transportation:**

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides public transportation within Norfolk. Several bus routes serve the 23513 area, offering an alternative to driving. The 20, 22, and 25 routes are among the most relevant for healthcare access, connecting to major medical facilities.

However, public transit presents challenges. Bus schedules can be infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. The average travel time via bus can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding 30-60 minutes to your commute.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. HRT strives to provide accessible services, with ramps and lifts on buses and designated seating. However, accessibility can vary, and it's essential to confirm the specific features of the bus route and stop locations you plan to use.

The overall impact of public transportation on the Prostate Cancer Score is moderate. While it provides an option, the longer travel times and potential accessibility limitations can be a significant drawback for those with mobility issues or needing urgent medical attention.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Norfolk, offering a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate parking challenges or wait for buses.

However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase expenses.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and other specialized providers, are available for individuals who require assistance with mobility. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation. These are a valuable option for those with physical limitations. The cost of medical transport can be higher than ride-sharing, but it provides peace of mind and ensures safe and reliable transportation.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services positively impacts the Prostate Cancer Score. These services offer flexibility and convenience, especially for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility challenges.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Norfolk:**

The Prostate Cancer Score for 23513 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While the proximity to major roadways like I-64 and I-264 offers good access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on driving can be a concern, particularly during peak traffic times. Public transportation provides an alternative, but it's hampered by longer travel times and potential accessibility issues. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenient options but come with associated costs.

When considering a move to Norfolk, and specifically 23513, evaluating your transportation needs is paramount. If you rely on public transportation or have mobility challenges, carefully assess the accessibility of bus routes and the availability of medical transportation services. If you are comfortable driving, consider the traffic patterns and the time it takes to reach your preferred healthcare providers.

The Prostate Cancer Score is a starting point. It highlights the importance of understanding the local transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Careful planning, including researching the specific routes and services that best meet your needs, will help you navigate the healthcare system effectively and ensure timely access to prostate cancer care.