26343, Crawford, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26343, Crawford, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.21 percent of residents in 26343 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Joseph's Hospital Of Buckhannon, Inc with a distance of 14.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crawford, WV (ZIP Code 26343)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not just the medical expertise of doctors and nurses, but also the practical realities of transportation. In the rural heart of West Virginia, in ZIP Code 26343 (Crawford), these logistical considerations become even more critical. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare services, specifically focusing on the transportation landscape. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents of Crawford.

The “Breast Cancer Score” isn’t a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the ease with which a resident can access necessary care. Factors considered include the distance to treatment centers, the reliability and availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of these factors on a patient's well-being and treatment adherence. For a resident of Crawford, this score will be significantly influenced by the limitations imposed by the local transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Crawford**

The primary mode of transportation for most Crawford residents is personal vehicles. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are primarily located in larger towns and cities. The drive times to these facilities are a significant factor in our "Breast Cancer Score."

The closest major medical center offering comprehensive breast cancer services is likely in Clarksburg, approximately 25-30 miles away. The primary route to Clarksburg from Crawford involves traveling on **US Route 19 South** and then merging onto **Interstate 79 North**. Traffic conditions can vary, but the drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day and any potential road construction.

Another option, though further afield, is Morgantown, approximately 70-80 miles away. This journey necessitates traveling on **US Route 19 North** to **Interstate 79 North**. The drive time to Morgantown can range from 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

These drive times, while manageable for some, can pose significant challenges for individuals undergoing treatment. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care can become burdensome, both financially and emotionally. The stress of long drives, especially for those experiencing side effects from treatment, can negatively impact their overall well-being and adherence to their treatment plan.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in rural West Virginia are limited, and Crawford is no exception. There is no readily available public transit system within the immediate vicinity of Crawford. The availability of public transit in the surrounding areas is also limited.

The lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" for Crawford residents. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive due to their illness face considerable barriers to accessing care. This lack of options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased isolation.

While there may be regional transit services that operate within the broader county, it is unlikely that these services offer direct routes or frequent schedules that would be practical for regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on any available transit options must be carefully considered, as many patients undergoing cancer treatment may have mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while prevalent in urban areas, have a more limited presence in rural West Virginia. Availability in Crawford is likely sporadic, and the cost of rides to distant medical facilities could be prohibitive for many residents. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing availability also poses a challenge for scheduling appointments and ensuring timely access to care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, can be a valuable resource. Several companies specialize in this type of service, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the availability of these services in Crawford and the surrounding areas needs to be investigated. The cost of medical transportation can be a significant financial burden, and insurance coverage for these services varies.

**Brands to Consider:** The availability of medical transport services can vary. Potential brands to investigate include local ambulance services, private medical transport companies, and organizations that offer transportation assistance to cancer patients. Researching these options is essential for residents of Crawford.

**The Impact on the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Crawford residents is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The long drive times, the lack of public transit, and the uncertain availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

For a resident of Crawford facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the ability to access timely and convenient transportation is crucial. The absence of readily available options can lead to increased stress, financial strain, and potential delays in treatment.

**Moving to Crawford: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Crawford, the availability of healthcare access, including transportation options, should be a key consideration. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or a family history of cancer, should thoroughly research the transportation landscape and the availability of medical services before making a move.

Understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with transportation is critical for ensuring that Crawford residents can receive the breast cancer care they need. Addressing these transportation barriers through community initiatives, advocating for improved public transit, and promoting access to medical transport services are crucial steps toward improving the "Breast Cancer Score" for Crawford residents and ensuring equitable access to healthcare.