26283, Montrose, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26283, Montrose, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.99 percent of residents in 26283 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 26283**

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when facing a serious diagnosis like breast cancer. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options within and around ZIP Code 26283 (Montrose, West Virginia), offering a "Breast Cancer Score" to help assess the ease of reaching essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a practical guide for residents and those considering moving to Montrose.

ZIP Code 26283 is situated in a rural area, which significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary challenge is the geographical distance to specialized medical facilities. The Breast Cancer Score will consider these factors to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The most common mode of transportation in Montrose is personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. The primary route to Morgantown, where many specialized cancer centers are located, involves taking US Route 219 North. This is the most direct route, though it can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours.

Expect a drive time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to reach facilities in Morgantown. This time can vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Morgantown. For facilities closer to Elkins, such as Davis Medical Center, the drive time is considerably shorter, approximately 30-45 minutes via US Route 219 South.

The condition of the roads is another factor. While US Route 219 is generally well-maintained, secondary roads can be less so, especially during winter months. This can impact drive times and accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive safely. The Breast Cancer Score will incorporate a rating reflecting the road conditions and their potential impact on healthcare access.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit in ZIP Code 26283 is limited, which presents a significant challenge for healthcare access. The availability of buses and other forms of public transport is scarce, making it difficult for individuals without personal vehicles to reach medical appointments.

The Randolph County Transit Authority (RCTA) may provide some limited services within the county. However, these services may not be frequent or direct enough to meet the needs of individuals requiring regular cancer treatment. Furthermore, the RCTA's routes and schedules may not always align with the operating hours of medical facilities.

ADA-accessible features on any available public transit are critical. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the availability of wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accommodations to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in some areas, but their presence in Montrose is limited. Availability can be unpredictable, and surge pricing may increase costs, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies, offer a more specialized option for individuals needing assistance. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.

The Breast Cancer Score will assess the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services in the area. It will also consider the experience of individuals who have used these services, including their satisfaction with the drivers, vehicles, and overall service quality.

**Medical Facilities and Specialized Care**

The availability of specialized cancer care in the immediate vicinity of Montrose is limited. This means that individuals diagnosed with breast cancer will likely need to travel to Morgantown or other larger cities for treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score will consider the distance to these facilities, the types of services they offer, and their reputation for providing quality care. It will also assess the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help individuals navigate the healthcare system and coordinate transportation.

**Breast Cancer Score Methodology**

The Breast Cancer Score will be calculated based on a weighted average of several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest cancer center or specialized facility will be assigned a significant weight.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, routes, and ADA accessibility of public transit options will be considered.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services will be evaluated.
* **Road Conditions:** The condition of the roads and their potential impact on travel times will be factored in.
* **Medical Facility Proximity and Services:** The distance to facilities and the range of services offered will be assessed.

Each factor will be assigned a score, and the overall Breast Cancer Score will be calculated by summing the weighted scores. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare.

**Moving to Montrose and Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Montrose, understanding the challenges of healthcare access is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable tool for assessing the transportation landscape and making informed decisions.

Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should carefully consider the distance to medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and effective care. Planning for transportation needs, including having a reliable vehicle or exploring medical transportation services, is essential.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score offers a practical assessment of healthcare access in ZIP Code 26283. It highlights the challenges of transportation in a rural area and provides a framework for understanding the complexities of accessing medical care. By considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options, the score empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It is a vital resource for residents and those contemplating moving to Montrose, ensuring that they are well-prepared to navigate the healthcare system and receive the care they deserve.