26521, Blacksville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26521, Blacksville, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.86 percent of residents in 26521 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Medical Center with a distance of 15.09 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26521 (Blacksville, West Virginia)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for critical services like breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It involves not only the quality of medical care but also the ease and reliability of transportation. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 26521, encompassing the small town of Blacksville, West Virginia, and assesses its "Breast Cancer Score" by evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care. The score considers various transportation options, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access for residents, particularly those considering moving to Blacksville.

The primary factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score is the distance and travel time to facilities offering breast cancer services. In 26521, the nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located in Morgantown, approximately 20 miles away. This distance translates into a drive of roughly 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The primary route is via **West Virginia Route 7**, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. Alternative routes include **West Virginia Route 218** and local roads, but these options may add to the travel time.

Public transportation options are limited in Blacksville. The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides some service, but routes and schedules are infrequent. There is no direct public transit route from Blacksville to Morgantown that would be suitable for a healthcare appointment. The limited public transportation options significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score, as they restrict access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This is a critical consideration for those seeking healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Morgantown, but their availability in Blacksville is less certain. The distance from Blacksville to Morgantown and the relative remoteness of the area may make it difficult to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments early in the morning or late in the evening. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the transportation equation. The reliability of ride-sharing significantly affects healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, which cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the Morgantown area, including those that provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and the availability of specific services in Blacksville needs to be confirmed. These services are vital for individuals with mobility limitations.

The Breast Cancer Score is also influenced by the condition of the roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities. **West Virginia Route 7**, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during winter months. Parking availability at the hospitals and clinics in Morgantown is generally good, but it may require walking some distance from the parking area to the facility. The condition of the roads and parking availability are critical factors.

The lack of local healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The absence of local screening facilities or treatment centers necessitates travel to Morgantown, increasing the burden on patients. This underscores the importance of transportation options and the potential challenges faced by residents of Blacksville. The absence of local facilities is a significant challenge.

For individuals considering moving to Blacksville, the transportation landscape is a crucial factor. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the challenges of healthcare access and highlights the importance of planning for transportation needs. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation options and factor in the time and cost associated with travel to medical appointments. Planning for healthcare access is essential.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources can be vital for breast cancer patients. The availability of these services in Blacksville and Morgantown, and their accessibility via transportation, are considered. The availability of support services is an important factor.

The presence of ADA-accessible transportation options is another key factor. The MCTA offers some ADA-accessible buses, but the frequency of service and the lack of direct routes to Morgantown may limit their usefulness for individuals with disabilities. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation companies typically offer accessible vehicles, but their availability and cost vary. ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for 26521 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The drive time to Morgantown is reasonable, but the limited public transportation options and the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability create challenges. The lack of local healthcare facilities and the reliance on travel to Morgantown also impact the score. The score is a reflection of the transportation challenges.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static measure. It can be improved through various initiatives. Increasing the frequency of public transportation, expanding ride-sharing availability, and promoting medical transportation services could all improve healthcare access. Encouraging the establishment of local screening facilities or outreach programs would also significantly enhance the score. Improving the score requires community effort.

The analysis of transportation options and healthcare access in 26521 reveals a complex picture. While the drive to Morgantown is manageable, the limited public transit and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services create challenges for residents. The Breast Cancer Score reflects these challenges and highlights the importance of considering transportation needs when planning for healthcare. The score is a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for 26521 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. While the drive time to Morgantown is reasonable, the limited transportation options and the lack of local facilities create challenges. For those considering moving to Blacksville, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring access to essential healthcare services. The Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for assessing and improving healthcare access in this community.