26335, Burnsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26335, Burnsville, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.22 percent of residents in 26335 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Webster Memorial Hospital with a distance of 29.33 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burnsville, WV (ZIP Code 26335)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare. For residents of Burnsville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26335), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is inextricably linked to the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community, considering the available options for navigating the healthcare landscape, emphasizing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. We aim to provide a clear picture for residents and those considering **moving to Burnsville**, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in accessing vital breast cancer services.

Burnsville, nestled in Braxton County, presents a rural environment where the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care centers are located in larger cities. This geographical reality significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The score reflects the relative ease or difficulty of accessing necessary services, factoring in factors like travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of support services. A low score indicates significant barriers, while a higher score suggests relatively easier access.

The primary mode of transport for Burnsville residents seeking breast cancer care is likely the personal vehicle. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating a network of highways and roads. For instance, a trip to Charleston, WV, home to the CAMC Cancer Center, typically entails a drive of approximately 100 miles, predominantly via US-19 South and then onto I-79 South. This drive can take anywhere from 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Alternatively, Morgantown, WV, home to the WVU Medicine's Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, is roughly 90 miles away. This journey involves traveling on US-19 North, then onto I-79 North. This route usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The drive to both locations underscores the time commitment required for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The distance can be particularly taxing for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, requiring frequent travel.

Public **transportation** options in Burnsville are limited. Braxton County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score, as it directly impacts access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their condition or other limitations. The lack of reliable public transit presents a considerable challenge for those relying on alternative means of getting to their appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or readily accessible as in larger metropolitan areas. Ride availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability further impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it complicates the process of scheduling and attending appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, adding another layer of stress during an already challenging time.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with their healthcare needs, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like Rural Transportation, or other regional medical transport providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often offer door-to-door assistance, accommodating individuals with mobility issues or other special needs. However, the availability of these services and their coverage area are crucial factors in determining their impact on the Breast Cancer Score. Patients must research and arrange these services in advance, adding an extra step to the already complex process of seeking care.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is a critical consideration. Ensuring that vehicles and facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities is paramount. This includes features like wheelchair lifts, accessible restrooms, and trained personnel to assist patients. The availability of ADA-compliant services directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for patients with mobility limitations.

The Breast Cancer Score for Burnsville, WV (ZIP Code 26335) is, therefore, impacted by the challenges of distance, limited public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport. The score is negatively influenced by the time commitment required for travel, the potential financial burden of transportation costs, and the need for advance planning and coordination.

For individuals considering **moving to Burnsville** and those already residing in the area, proactive planning is essential. Researching available healthcare facilities, transportation options, and support services is crucial. This includes identifying local primary care physicians who can provide referrals for mammograms and other screening services. It also involves exploring financial assistance programs that can help offset the cost of transportation and medical care.

The Breast Cancer Score can be improved by community initiatives that enhance **healthcare access**. This might include advocating for increased public transportation, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services, or promoting partnerships between local organizations and medical transport providers. Furthermore, establishing support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors can provide emotional support and practical assistance, including transportation coordination.

The impact of breast cancer extends far beyond the diagnosis itself. The ability to access timely and effective care is paramount, and the **transportation** infrastructure plays a critical role in this process. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals in rural communities and underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** for all.