26267, Ellamore, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.56 percent of residents in 26267 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Joseph's Hospital Of Buckhannon, Inc with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ellamore, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26267)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, demands meticulous planning. This report, the "Breast Cancer Score," analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Ellamore, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26267), providing prospective residents a crucial understanding of healthcare access. It’s a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Ellamore, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions.

Ellamore, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, presents unique transportation challenges. The mountainous terrain and sparse population impact healthcare accessibility, making transportation a pivotal factor in the overall quality of life. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of reaching essential medical services, especially those related to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Ellamore involves navigating the winding roads that carve through the Appalachian landscape. The most direct route to the nearest comprehensive medical facilities typically utilizes **US Route 33** east, a vital artery connecting Ellamore to larger towns and cities. This highway, though well-maintained, can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

The drive to the nearest major hospital, **Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital** in Weston, West Virginia, is approximately 25 miles. Expect a drive time of around 40-50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This drive involves traveling east on US Route 33 and then utilizing **Interstate 79** for a portion of the journey. However, be mindful of potential traffic congestion, especially during rush hour or on weekends.

Further specialized care, such as oncology centers or specialized breast cancer clinics, may necessitate travel to Morgantown or Charleston. The journey to Morgantown, home to the **WVU Medicine Cancer Institute**, involves a drive of approximately 100 miles, primarily via I-79 north. This trip can take upwards of two hours, making it a significant time commitment for appointments and treatments. The drive to Charleston, the state capital, is a similar distance, requiring travel south on I-79 and then east on **US Route 119**.

Navigating these roads requires careful planning. Weather forecasts should be closely monitored, especially during the winter, as snow and ice can significantly impact drive times and road safety. Consider the impact of road construction projects, which can cause unexpected delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Ellamore and the surrounding areas are limited. The local transit authority, **Buckhannon Transit**, provides some bus services within Upshur County, but its routes and schedules are not specifically tailored to medical appointments. While the transit system may offer some level of accessibility, it is not a reliable option for those requiring frequent or time-sensitive medical transportation.

The lack of robust public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those facing mobility limitations or financial constraints. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration, but the frequency and coverage of these services may be insufficient to meet the needs of patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in some areas of West Virginia, but their presence in Ellamore and the immediate surrounding areas may be limited. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including **CareRide**, **LogistiCare**, and **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)**. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, making them a viable option for individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have limitations regarding the distance they cover.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The Breast Cancer Score for Ellamore highlights the complexities of healthcare access. While the area boasts dedicated medical professionals and facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents significant hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to care, particularly for those facing mobility limitations or financial constraints.

The distance to specialized cancer centers and the time commitment required for travel can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a breast cancer diagnosis. Patients may need to factor in the costs of transportation, lodging, and meals, further burdening their financial resources.

**Moving to Ellamore: A Transportation-Aware Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Ellamore, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends who can provide transportation, and the potential reliance on medical transportation services.

The Breast Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Before making a move, individuals should research the availability and cost of medical transportation services, familiarize themselves with the local road conditions, and assess the potential impact of weather and traffic on their ability to reach medical appointments.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Choices**

The Breast Cancer Score for Ellamore serves as a critical resource for anyone considering a move to the area or seeking healthcare services. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the essential services they require. This report underscores the importance of considering transportation as a fundamental aspect of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of breast cancer. Prioritizing transportation planning is paramount for anyone moving to Ellamore, ensuring a smoother, less stressful journey to healthcare.