23704, Portsmouth, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 23704, Portsmouth, Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.26 percent of residents in 23704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Portsmouth with a distance of 1.19 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 23704

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a complex equation. It’s not merely about the quality of medical professionals, but also the ease with which you can reach them. This write-up explores the “Prostate Cancer Score” for residents of ZIP code 23704 in Portsmouth, Virginia, focusing on the critical element of transportation. It examines the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Portsmouth or currently residing there, especially those navigating prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The 23704 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Portsmouth, a city steeped in maritime history and a growing population. The proximity to Norfolk and the broader Hampton Roads region presents both opportunities and challenges when considering healthcare access. The primary challenge lies in the often-congested roadways and the limitations of public transportation, which can significantly impact a patient’s ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive timely care.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for transportation are Interstate 264 (I-264) and US Route 17. I-264 provides relatively quick access to Norfolk and the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the region. However, rush hour traffic can transform a 15-minute drive into a frustrating hour-long ordeal. US Route 17, also known as the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (MMMBT) route, offers another route, but it is subject to tolls and can experience significant delays, especially during peak hours.

Other crucial roads within the area include High Street, Portsmouth Boulevard, and Frederick Boulevard. These roads provide access to local clinics, specialists, and the Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, a vital healthcare resource within Portsmouth itself. While these roads generally experience less congestion than the interstates, their reliance on traffic signals and intersections can still add considerable time to a commute, particularly for those with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue.

Public transportation, offered by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), presents an alternative, yet it has its own set of considerations. Several bus routes serve the 23704 area, including routes 1, 2, 3, and 4, which connect to various healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be a concern, with wait times potentially exceeding 30 minutes during off-peak hours. Furthermore, while HRT offers ADA-accessible buses, the availability of these vehicles on every route and at every stop can vary, and the overall travel time using public transit is often significantly longer than driving.

The accessibility challenges are amplified for prostate cancer patients who may experience fatigue, pain, or other side effects from treatment. The longer travel times, coupled with the need to navigate crowded buses or endure the stress of driving in heavy traffic, can exacerbate these symptoms and negatively impact their overall well-being. This is where the availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft becomes particularly relevant.

Ride-sharing services provide a more convenient and often faster alternative to public transit, particularly for those unable to drive or requiring door-to-door service. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedRide, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers familiar with the needs of patients, but they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The location of healthcare facilities within and around 23704 is a crucial factor. Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center is a primary healthcare provider within the ZIP code, offering a range of services, including urology and oncology departments. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, located in Norfolk, offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy and surgical oncology. Accessing these facilities involves navigating the aforementioned transportation challenges.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 23704, therefore, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the cost and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the overall impact of transportation on a patient's quality of life. The score would be lower for those reliant on public transportation or living far from major medical centers, and higher for those with access to a personal vehicle and residing close to a hospital.

For individuals considering moving to Portsmouth and seeking healthcare, this analysis emphasizes the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs. Factors such as proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential for traffic congestion should be carefully considered. This is especially crucial for those with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking specialized care, such as prostate cancer treatment.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for 23704 is a complex one. While the area offers access to quality healthcare, the challenges of transportation cannot be ignored. The congestion on I-264, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services all contribute to a potentially stressful and time-consuming journey to healthcare. Careful planning and consideration of these factors are essential for ensuring timely access to care and supporting the well-being of individuals navigating prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment in this vibrant, historic city. The ability to adapt and utilize the available transportation options is key to a positive healthcare experience.