26187, Williamstown, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.19 percent of residents in 26187 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 10.63 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williamstown, WV (ZIP Code 26187)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a deeply personal and often daunting one. In Williamstown, West Virginia (ZIP code 26187), the availability and accessibility of crucial medical services directly impact the quality of life for residents. This analysis, presented as a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, a critical factor in healthcare access, for individuals living in and considering moving to this community.

Williamstown, nestled along the Ohio River, offers a charming, small-town atmosphere. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when evaluating healthcare access. This score aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare system from a transportation perspective, acknowledging that early detection and timely treatment are paramount in the fight against breast cancer.

The primary focus is on the accessibility of breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment centers. The score will factor in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking or requiring breast cancer care in Williamstown.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The most common mode of transportation in Williamstown is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is crucial. The nearest major medical centers are located in Parkersburg, approximately 15 miles south. The primary route is via **West Virginia Route 14**, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Further options include Marietta, Ohio, across the Ohio River. The primary route is via **Ohio State Route 7**, accessible from Williamstown via the Williamstown Bridge. The drive to Marietta Memorial Hospital is roughly 20-30 minutes, again contingent on traffic and bridge conditions.

For specialized cancer care, the Mid-Ohio Valley Comprehensive Cancer Center in Parkersburg is a vital resource. Drive times to this facility from Williamstown, using **WV-14**, average around 30 minutes. These times, while manageable, necessitate careful planning, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Williamstown and the surrounding area is limited. The primary provider is the Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA), which offers bus routes within the Parkersburg-Marietta area. However, service to Williamstown is infrequent and primarily geared towards commuting to work or shopping.

MOVTA does not have fixed routes specifically serving Williamstown. Individuals would need to arrange transportation to a MOVTA stop in Parkersburg, adding significant travel time. The lack of direct public transit options presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. MOVTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, the limited frequency and indirect routes make public transit a challenging option for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or other side effects.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area, including Williamstown. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance getting to and from appointments.

Companies like First Transit and CareRide provide NEMT services in the Mid-Ohio Valley. These services require advance booking and may have limitations on the distance traveled. The cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden, especially for those with limited incomes or without adequate insurance coverage.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Williamstown, WV (26187), reflects a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. The proximity to Parkersburg and Marietta provides access to essential healthcare services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers.

The score would consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Cancer Centers:** (Weight: 30%) The average drive time to the Mid-Ohio Valley Comprehensive Cancer Center and Marietta Memorial Hospital.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** (Weight: 20%) The frequency and directness of public transit routes to healthcare facilities, including ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** (Weight: 15%) The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** (Weight: 20%) The availability, cost, and ease of access to medical transport services.
* **Community Resources:** (Weight: 15%) The availability of local support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs.

The final score would be presented on a scale, ranging from "Poor" to "Excellent," providing a clear and concise assessment of the transportation landscape for breast cancer care in Williamstown. This score would be a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Williamstown, those newly diagnosed with breast cancer, and healthcare providers seeking to understand the transportation challenges faced by their patients.

**Moving to Williamstown: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Williamstown, healthcare access should be a key consideration. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning. Prospective residents should evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. Owning a vehicle is highly recommended.

It is essential to research the availability of medical transport services and familiarize oneself with the local healthcare providers. Connecting with local support groups and patient navigators can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the healthcare system.

The Williamstown community, while offering a desirable lifestyle, requires proactive planning to ensure access to timely and effective breast cancer care. Understanding the transportation landscape is the first step in ensuring a positive healthcare experience. The Breast Cancer Score is designed to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.