Breast Cancer Score

26136, Big Bend, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.58 percent of residents in 26136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 3.35 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia

Breast Cancer Score 29
People Score 83
Provider Score 20
Hospital Score 44
Travel Score 14

Closest Hospital - MINNIE HAMILTON HEALTH SYSTEM

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 26136 Big Bend West Virginia
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.72
1 Car 13.21 13.21 20.26
2 Cars 31.13 31.13 41.64
3 or More Cars 55.66 55.66 35.38

Vehicular Access in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia

Travel Score Review of 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Big Bend (ZIP Code 26136)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is fraught with emotional and logistical challenges. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 26136 (Big Bend, West Virginia), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to the area or seeking treatment within it.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering the multifaceted nature of access. It examines drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, all vital elements influencing a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its implications for breast cancer patients.

Big Bend, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, presents unique challenges. The rural setting, while offering scenic beauty and a slower pace of life, often translates to limited transportation infrastructure. This can significantly impact healthcare access, especially for individuals requiring frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Big Bend is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The ability to drive oneself or rely on a caregiver is often the cornerstone of healthcare access. However, drive times to specialized medical facilities can be a significant hurdle.

The closest hospital with a dedicated oncology department is likely Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, WV. The journey from Big Bend to Parkersburg, primarily via **West Virginia Route 14** and then **US Route 50**, is approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This time can be extended during inclement weather, which is common in West Virginia.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, patients might need to travel to larger cities like Charleston, WV, or even Pittsburgh, PA. The drive to Charleston, primarily utilizing **US Route 33** and **Interstate 79**, can take upwards of 2.5 to 3 hours. The journey to Pittsburgh, involving **US Route 50** and **Interstate 79**, is a similar duration. These longer drives place a considerable burden on patients, particularly those undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

**Public Transit: Sparse and Scarce**

Public transportation options in Big Bend are extremely limited. The rural nature of the area, coupled with budget constraints, has resulted in a sparse public transit network. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

There are no dedicated bus routes that directly connect Big Bend to Parkersburg or other major medical centers. The availability of public transit for healthcare appointments is therefore almost non-existent. This lack of infrastructure represents a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot afford or maintain a personal vehicle.

The absence of accessible public transit also impacts those who cannot drive due to their health condition or age. This lack of options exacerbates the challenges faced by breast cancer patients, who often require frequent and sometimes unpredictable trips for treatment and appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Parkersburg area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their presence in Big Bend itself is less reliable. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips. The expense of multiple rides per week can quickly accumulate, placing a financial strain on patients already burdened by medical bills.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including First Call Ambulance Service and other private medical transport providers. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.

However, medical transport services are often costly and may require prior booking. Their availability can also be limited, particularly during peak demand or for appointments scheduled on short notice. The necessity of pre-planning and the associated cost can pose challenges for patients.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For breast cancer patients with mobility issues, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is paramount. This includes wheelchair-accessible transportation options, accessible waiting areas at medical facilities, and accessible examination rooms.

While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability is not guaranteed. Medical transport services are typically equipped with ADA-compliant features, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

The lack of reliable and affordable ADA-accessible transportation options in Big Bend can significantly restrict healthcare access for patients with mobility impairments, making it difficult for them to attend appointments and receive necessary care.

**Moving to Big Bend: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Big Bend, especially those with a history of breast cancer or a higher risk profile, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. The limited transportation options pose a significant challenge.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to drive or secure reliable transportation to medical facilities. They should also investigate the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport options, and any potential financial assistance programs that might help offset the cost of transportation.

Furthermore, individuals should research the availability of support groups and resources within the community. These resources can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and information about local healthcare providers.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Big Bend, WV (ZIP code 26136), reveals a challenging landscape for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers for breast cancer patients.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for improved public transit infrastructure, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services, and promoting the availability of affordable medical transport options.

Furthermore, the community can work to establish support networks, provide financial assistance for transportation costs, and educate residents about available resources. By working together, the community can strive to improve healthcare access for all residents, ensuring that those facing a breast cancer diagnosis can receive the timely and consistent care they deserve.

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Health Scores Near 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia

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Health Scores in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia