26505, Morgantown, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26505, Morgantown, West Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.42 percent of residents in 26505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Medical Center with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 26505

The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care can be a daunting journey, especially when factoring in the complexities of **transportation**. This analysis delves into the **healthcare access** landscape for residents of ZIP code 26505, a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Morgantown** or already residing within its boundaries. We will assess the availability of breast cancer services, focusing on the time and effort required to reach them, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing vital care.

Our focus will be on the practical realities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support services. This includes drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and specialized medical transportation services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the **transportation** challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary hub for comprehensive breast cancer care in the Morgantown area is the WVU Medicine's Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, located on the WVU Health Sciences campus. This facility houses a multidisciplinary team, offering diagnostics, treatment, and support services. Assessing **healthcare access** therefore requires a thorough examination of how easily residents of 26505 can reach this critical resource.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center from 26505 are Interstate 79 (I-79) and US Route 19. The drive time will vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, traffic conditions, and time of day.

Residents in the Cheat Lake area, located in the eastern part of 26505, will likely utilize US Route 857 to connect with US Route 19, which then leads to the Health Sciences campus. Under normal traffic conditions, this drive could take approximately 20-30 minutes.

Those residing in the more central areas of 26505, closer to Morgantown, might opt for a combination of local roads like Smithtown Road and University Avenue to reach the destination. This route could potentially reduce the drive time to around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Further south, residents may use I-79 South to reach Morgantown. This route could take 25-35 minutes, depending on the starting point and traffic.

Parking at the WVU Health Sciences campus can be another factor. While parking garages are available, finding a spot, especially during busy periods, can add to the overall time commitment. Therefore, planning ahead and allowing extra time for parking is essential.

**Public Transit Options**

The Monongalia County Public Transit Authority (MCPTA), also known as Mountain Line, provides public **transportation** services within Morgantown and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the WVU Health Sciences campus, making them a viable option for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid the complexities of driving and parking.

Route 51, the Green Line, is a key route for accessing the Health Sciences campus. It runs frequently and offers connections to various parts of Morgantown. Route 52, the Blue Line, also provides service to the campus. The frequency and specific routes of these buses should be verified on the Mountain Line website or app.

For individuals with disabilities, Mountain Line offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to ensure accessibility. Passengers needing ADA services should contact Mountain Line in advance to arrange for assistance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Morgantown and offer another **transportation** option. These services can be particularly convenient for those who prefer door-to-door service or who are unable to drive. However, availability and pricing can vary depending on demand and time of day.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Companies like FirstLight Home Care and Comfort Keepers offer medical **transportation** services in the Morgantown area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance with their appointments.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 26505 will consider several factors, including:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time from various locations within 26505 to the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center. Shorter drive times will contribute to a higher score.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of Mountain Line buses. Frequent and accessible service will improve the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of Uber and Lyft. Consistent availability will enhance the score.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical **transportation** services. Readily available services will boost the score.
* **Parking Availability:** The ease of finding parking at the WVU Health Sciences campus. Ample parking will positively influence the score.

**Analysis and Conclusion**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Breast Cancer Score for 26505 will be a reflection of the overall ease of accessing breast cancer care. While Morgantown offers a comprehensive healthcare facility, the **transportation** landscape presents both opportunities and challenges.

The availability of multiple **transportation** options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation**, provides residents with choices. However, drive times, traffic congestion, and parking availability can impact the overall convenience of accessing care.

For those **moving to Morgantown**, the proximity to the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center is a significant advantage. However, understanding the nuances of **transportation** options is crucial for ensuring timely and stress-free access to vital services. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a valuable tool for assessing the overall **healthcare access** landscape and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of 26505 have the resources and support they need to navigate the complexities of breast cancer care with confidence and ease.