26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.06 percent of residents in 26330 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Hospital Center, Inc with a distance of 2.66 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26330**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands a clear understanding of access. In ZIP code 26330, which encompasses Bridgeport, West Virginia, this exploration delves into the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access. We'll assess the commute challenges and opportunities, assigning a 'Breast Cancer Score' based on the practical realities of navigating the area for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport. It's designed to provide a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Bridgeport or seeking care within the community. Ultimately, this assessment aims to empower informed decisions regarding healthcare access.

**The Breast Cancer Score: Methodology**

Our score utilizes a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing extremely limited access and 10 indicating exceptional access. Factors considered include the proximity of cancer care facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the availability of support services. We'll assess each element, providing detailed insights to inform the final score.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents of 26330, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfares, including Interstate 79 (I-79) and US Route 19, are critical arteries connecting Bridgeport to healthcare resources. Driving times are significantly impacted by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

The closest major healthcare provider specializing in cancer care is United Hospital Center (UHC) in Clarksburg, a drive of approximately 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage. However, access to specialized facilities, such as those offering advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, might necessitate longer drives.

US Route 19 provides a direct route to UHC, while I-79 offers a faster, though potentially more congested, alternative. Understanding these routes, and the potential for delays, is crucial for managing appointments and treatment schedules. Secondary roads, such as W Main Street and Milford Street, offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and subject to more stop-and-go traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited Role**

Public transportation in Bridgeport, and throughout much of Harrison County, plays a limited role in healthcare access. The Harrison County Senior Center provides some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these services are primarily geared towards appointments within the county and may have limited availability.

The West Virginia Department of Transportation operates a statewide public transit system, but service frequency and route coverage in the Bridgeport area are limited. Bus routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, and schedules might not align with treatment appointments. Furthermore, ADA-compliant features on public transit vehicles are essential for accessibility, but their availability needs to be confirmed.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a valuable alternative for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Availability in Bridgeport is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could impact affordability.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or who need stretcher transport. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation and can be invaluable for patients undergoing treatment or facing mobility challenges. However, costs can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required.

**Healthcare Access: The Critical Factor**

The primary healthcare provider for breast cancer treatment in the area is United Hospital Center (UHC). UHC offers a comprehensive range of services, including screening, diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. This centralized location is a significant advantage for residents of 26330.

However, access to specialized services, such as advanced imaging or clinical trials, might require travel to facilities outside of the immediate area, potentially increasing travel times and logistical complexities. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and financial assistance programs, is also a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access.

**Moving to Bridgeport: Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Bridgeport, the proximity of UHC is a major advantage. The relatively short drive times to the hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a favorable environment for healthcare access.

However, potential residents should also consider the limitations of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It is essential to assess personal mobility needs and financial resources when evaluating the feasibility of accessing healthcare in the area.

**The Breast Cancer Score: 7/10**

Based on our assessment, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 26330 is 7 out of 10. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** Proximity to UHC, a comprehensive cancer care provider; availability of ride-sharing services; relatively short drive times.
* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transit options; potential for increased travel times to access specialized services; cost of ride-sharing and medical transport.

This score suggests that Bridgeport offers good healthcare access for breast cancer patients, particularly those who can drive or utilize ride-sharing services. However, individuals with mobility limitations or financial constraints may face challenges. The score is a starting point for further investigation and should be considered alongside individual circumstances and healthcare needs. The availability of support services, the quality of care at UHC, and the patient's personal preferences will also influence the overall experience.