24347, Hiwassee, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 24347, Hiwassee, Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.09 percent of residents in 24347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski with a distance of 8.08 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 24347

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, can be a complex undertaking. This write-up explores the accessibility of prostate cancer-related healthcare within ZIP Code 24347, encompassing the town of Hiwassee, Virginia. We'll examine the available **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, assessing their impact on **healthcare access** for individuals considering **moving to Hiwassee** or already residing within this rural community. Our analysis considers drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions, ultimately contributing to a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access vital medical care.

The primary concern for those diagnosed with prostate cancer is timely and consistent access to specialized medical care. This includes consultations with urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and the availability of diagnostic imaging such as MRI and PET scans. The quality of the **transportation** network significantly impacts the ability to receive these services promptly. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can have serious consequences, underscoring the critical nature of accessible healthcare.

The geographical reality of Hiwassee, nestled within the scenic Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges. The town is primarily served by a network of roads, with limited public **transportation** options. The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** is Interstate 81 (I-81), which offers relatively swift access to larger medical centers located in nearby cities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on I-81, particularly during peak hours, must be considered.

For residents needing to reach Roanoke, approximately 60 miles northeast of Hiwassee, the drive via I-81 typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Roanoke is home to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major medical center with comprehensive cancer care services, including urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The drive itself is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, especially during winter, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Heading south on I-81, the closest major medical hub is Bristol, Virginia, approximately 50 miles away. The drive time is roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Bristol is home to several hospitals, including Bristol Regional Medical Center, which offers some cancer care services. While the drive is shorter than to Roanoke, the available specialized care may be less extensive.

Within Hiwassee itself, access to local healthcare providers is more limited. The town likely has primary care physicians, but specialized cancer care is not typically available. This necessitates travel to larger regional centers, highlighting the crucial role of **transportation** in **healthcare access**. The secondary roads, such as Virginia Route 100, Virginia Route 608 (Hiwassee Road), and Virginia Route 609, provide access to the surrounding areas, but they are often winding and can add to travel times.

Public **transportation** options within ZIP Code 24347 are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating directly within Hiwassee. This lack of public transit significantly affects individuals without access to personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited financial resources. The absence of reliable public **transportation** exacerbates the challenges of accessing specialized cancer care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Hiwassee, but their availability is often inconsistent and dependent on driver availability. The rural nature of the area can make it difficult to secure a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some individuals, especially when frequent trips are required for treatment.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, may be available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation** and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may require advance booking. The specific brands operating in this area would need to be researched to determine their coverage and pricing.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** network and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services significantly impact the **healthcare access** for prostate cancer patients in Hiwassee. The drive times to Roanoke and Bristol, while manageable, add stress and potential delays to an already challenging situation. The lack of local specialized care necessitates travel, and the limited options for **transportation** can become a significant barrier to timely and consistent treatment.

For individuals considering **moving to Hiwassee** and diagnosed with or at risk of prostate cancer, careful consideration of the **transportation** challenges is paramount. The ability to drive, or access to a reliable driver, is essential. The availability of family support or the potential need for professional medical **transportation** services should be factored into the decision-making process.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 24347 would reflect the following factors: the average drive time to major cancer centers (Roanoke and Bristol), the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, the presence of medical **transportation** services, and the limitations of public **transportation**. A lower score would indicate greater challenges in accessing care, while a higher score would reflect more readily available and reliable **transportation** options.

The score would also consider the accessibility of the local healthcare providers, even though specialized cancer care is not available in Hiwassee. The presence of primary care physicians who can facilitate referrals and provide ongoing support is essential. The availability of mental health services and support groups for cancer patients and their families is also a crucial factor in the overall assessment.

In conclusion, while Hiwassee offers a tranquil setting, the **transportation** landscape presents significant hurdles for prostate cancer patients. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges in accessing timely and consistent medical care. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for this ZIP Code would likely be moderate, reflecting the need for patients to carefully plan their **transportation** and consider the potential impact on their **healthcare access**, particularly if they are **moving to Hiwassee**. The development of improved public **transportation** options or increased access to medical **transportation** services would significantly enhance the score and improve the quality of life for residents facing this challenging diagnosis.