26405, Moatsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.83 percent of residents in 26405 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Broaddus Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 9.63 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 26405

The quaint town of Moatsville, West Virginia, nestled in the embrace of the Appalachian foothills, offers a serene escape for many. However, for those considering a move to this ZIP code, 26405, and facing the potential need for breast cancer care, a critical factor to consider is healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment of transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services.

The score reflects the ease and reliability of reaching breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities from Moatsville. It weighs various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each element is assessed based on factors like drive times, route availability, accessibility features, and cost. Ultimately, the score aims to offer a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities in accessing breast cancer healthcare for residents of 26405.

**Personal Vehicle Transportation: The Backbone of Access**

For residents of Moatsville, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The availability of a car significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score, as it dictates the speed and flexibility in reaching medical appointments. The drive times to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are crucial.

The most direct route often involves navigating **US Route 19**, a major artery connecting Moatsville to the larger cities in the region. Heading north on Route 19, the drive to United Hospital Center in Bridgeport, a facility offering comprehensive breast cancer services, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, traveling south on **US Route 19** and then east on **West Virginia Route 57** leads to the Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown, a drive that typically takes around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. This route is longer but offers access to a different network of specialists and treatment options.

The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact these drive times. Mountainous terrain and seasonal snowfall can lead to delays, potentially affecting timely access to appointments and treatments. Therefore, reliable vehicle maintenance and awareness of weather conditions are crucial for anyone relying on a personal vehicle for healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transportation options in and around Moatsville are limited, presenting a challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score, as it impacts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides some service in the region, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to serve Moatsville directly. Individuals needing to use public transit would likely need to travel to a larger town, such as Philippi, to connect with a bus route. The MCTA does provide some ADA-accessible buses, but the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time and complexity.

For those relying on public transit, planning and coordination are paramount. Advance booking, understanding route schedules, and accounting for potential delays are essential. The limited availability of public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in areas with poor public transit coverage.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services in the Moatsville area are important considerations. Ride-sharing availability is often less reliable in rural areas, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services expensive.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, provide a specialized option for patients needing assistance with transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly and require advance booking.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds to the Breast Cancer Score, but their impact is tempered by their cost and reliability. The score reflects the need to consider these services as supplemental rather than primary transportation options, particularly for regular medical appointments.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for 26405 is a complex evaluation. It is not simply a number but a reflection of the overall transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. It considers the drive times, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport.

The score emphasizes the importance of personal vehicle ownership for residents of Moatsville seeking breast cancer care. It highlights the limitations of public transit and the need for careful planning. It also acknowledges the role of ride-sharing and medical transport as supplementary options, but emphasizes their cost and reliability considerations.

**Moving to Moatsville: Considerations for Breast Cancer Care**

For individuals considering a move to Moatsville, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access. It underscores the importance of assessing transportation options and their impact on accessing medical services.

Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual circumstances, including their access to a personal vehicle, their mobility limitations, and their financial resources. Researching the availability of breast cancer care facilities and understanding the transportation options available is essential.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive judgment on the suitability of Moatsville as a place to live. Instead, it is a tool for informed decision-making, helping individuals understand the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this rural community. It empowers potential residents to make informed choices about their healthcare needs and to plan accordingly.