26386, Lumberport, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.05 percent of residents in 26386 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Hospital Center, Inc with a distance of 6.64 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumberport, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26386)

Considering a move to Lumberport, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26386)? This assessment provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a personalized evaluation of transportation options and healthcare access specifically tailored for individuals concerned about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This score considers the availability and accessibility of essential services, including mammography, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and supportive care, all within a reasonable commuting distance. The score aims to offer prospective residents a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare in this rural community.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a definitive medical judgment. Instead, it's a guide to understanding the complexities of navigating healthcare, particularly for those seeking specialized breast cancer services. It highlights the practicalities of transportation, a critical element of healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive picture of the logistical landscape.

**The Transportation Terrain:**

Lumberport, nestled in Harrison County, West Virginia, presents a unique transportation environment. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The town's location, while offering scenic beauty, influences healthcare access due to its distance from major medical centers. The absence of a robust public transportation network further complicates matters, making reliable personal transportation a necessity.

Driving is the dominant factor. Route 19, a major north-south artery, provides the most direct access to Morgantown, the nearest city with comprehensive cancer care facilities. Traveling south on Route 19, expect approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive to the WVU Medicine facilities, including the WVU Cancer Institute. This drive time can vary significantly depending on traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. Route 279, a secondary road, connects Lumberport to Clarksburg, another option for healthcare, though with fewer specialized breast cancer services. Expect a 20-30 minute drive to United Hospital Center in Clarksburg via Route 279 and US-19.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Lumberport and Harrison County. The Harrison County Senior Citizens Center may provide some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these are primarily focused on local errands and appointments, not specialized cancer care. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The availability of these services should not be relied upon as a primary mode of transportation for regular medical appointments. Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, but they often require advance booking and can be costly. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including MedExpress and other local providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Comparative Overview:**

The closest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are in Morgantown, at the WVU Cancer Institute. This center provides a full spectrum of care, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and supportive services. Clarksburg, while closer, offers a more limited range of services, primarily focusing on screening and some surgical procedures.

The Breast Cancer Score for Lumberport residents will be influenced by the drive times to Morgantown and Clarksburg, the reliability of personal transportation, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The score will also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigation, financial assistance, and psychosocial support, offered by the healthcare facilities.

**Scoring Methodology:**

The Breast Cancer Score is calculated based on a weighted formula that considers several factors:

* **Drive Time to Comprehensive Cancer Center (Morgantown):** Longer drive times negatively impact the score.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** The absence of reliable public transit lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** Limited ride-sharing availability reduces the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services positively influence the score.
* **Proximity to Screening Facilities:** The availability of local mammography facilities improves the score.
* **Support Services:** The presence of patient navigation, financial assistance, and psychosocial support at the nearest cancer centers enhances the score.

**The Breast Cancer Score for 26386:**

Based on the current transportation and healthcare landscape, the Breast Cancer Score for Lumberport, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26386) is considered moderate. The drive time to Morgantown, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration. The lack of public transportation and the variable reliability of ride-sharing services necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport. The availability of comprehensive cancer care at the WVU Cancer Institute, coupled with the option of some services in Clarksburg, offers reassurance.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals considering moving to Lumberport, especially those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk, several factors should be carefully considered. The reliability of personal transportation is paramount. Ensure a reliable vehicle and a plan for maintenance and potential breakdowns. Explore the availability and cost of medical transport services. Research the support services offered by the WVU Cancer Institute and other healthcare providers. Establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the area to facilitate referrals and coordinate care.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Lumberport offers the charm of a small town, but it also presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access, particularly for individuals requiring specialized breast cancer services. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare resources. By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions and proactively plan for their healthcare needs, ensuring a smooth transition to their new community. The commitment to healthcare access in Lumberport requires a blend of personal responsibility, careful planning, and proactive engagement with the local healthcare system. This is especially true when considering the complexities of transportation and the need for prompt and reliable access to care.