24201, Bristol, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 24201, Bristol, Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.52 percent of residents in 24201 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.06 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bristol, VA (ZIP Code 24201)

Considering a move to Bristol, Virginia (ZIP Code 24201)? This vibrant city, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a growing healthcare landscape. However, understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical condition like prostate cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for residents of 24201, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely access to vital medical services.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times to specialized medical facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transport services. Each element is weighed to assess the ease and efficiency of accessing diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow-up care. A higher score reflects better access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.

For residents of 24201, the primary healthcare hub is Bristol Regional Medical Center, a Ballad Health facility. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including urology services, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. Drive times to this facility are generally favorable, but depend on the specific location within the ZIP code.

From the heart of Bristol, a drive to Bristol Regional Medical Center is typically a short journey. The primary route is via **Lee Highway (US-11)**, a major thoroughfare that bisects the city. Traffic flow is generally manageable, with the drive taking approximately 5-10 minutes. Residents residing in the more eastern portions of the ZIP code, closer to the Virginia-Tennessee state line, might opt for **East State Street**, which connects directly to the hospital, with a similar drive time.

However, accessing specialized care beyond Bristol Regional Medical Center may necessitate travel to larger regional medical centers. For instance, the University of Virginia (UVA) Health System in Charlottesville, approximately 250 miles away, offers advanced prostate cancer treatment options. The journey involves a drive primarily on **Interstate 81 South**, a major north-south artery. The drive time is roughly four hours, making it a significant commitment for appointments and follow-up visits. Alternatively, residents might consider the drive to the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, a journey of approximately 300 miles, primarily via **Interstate 81 South** and **Interstate 40 West**. This trip also entails a drive time of approximately five hours.

Public transportation options within 24201 are limited. The Bristol Virginia Transit (BVT) system provides bus services, but its routes are primarily focused on local travel within the city. The BVT does not offer direct routes to hospitals or specialized medical facilities. This lack of direct access poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects. The BVT does not have ADA features on all buses, making it difficult for patients with mobility issues to access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bristol. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for short trips to appointments or follow-up visits within the city. However, the availability of ride-sharing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of these services can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services are also available in the area. These services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require prior arrangements and can be costly, potentially creating a barrier to access for some patients.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 24201 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Bristol Regional Medical Center offers relatively easy access to initial care, the limited public transportation options and the need for longer travel times to specialized facilities outside of Bristol present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transportation can create barriers for individuals with mobility issues, those without access to a car, or those facing financial constraints.

For individuals considering moving to Bristol and managing prostate cancer, careful consideration of transportation options is crucial. While the city offers a welcoming environment and access to local healthcare, the need for specialized care or advanced treatments might necessitate longer travel times and reliance on alternative transportation methods. Planning for these transportation needs, including budgeting for ride-sharing or medical transport services, is essential.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 24201, therefore, is moderate. The score is boosted by the presence of a local hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services. However, the limitations of public transportation and the need for potentially lengthy drives to specialized facilities lower the overall score. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors and plan accordingly to ensure timely and convenient access to the healthcare they need.

Moving to Bristol offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a vibrant community. However, understanding healthcare access is key to a successful transition. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for evaluating transportation options and ensuring that residents can readily access the medical care they require.