26542, Masontown, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26542, Masontown, West Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.58 percent of residents in 26542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.99 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Masontown (ZIP Code 26542)

Considering a move to Masontown, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26542)? Beyond the charming small-town feel, it's crucial to understand the practicalities of accessing healthcare, especially concerning specialized care like breast cancer treatment. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the transportation landscape and healthcare access within and around Masontown, providing insights for informed decision-making. It examines the challenges and opportunities in navigating the region's transportation infrastructure to reach vital medical services.

The most critical aspect is timely access to diagnosis and treatment. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, making prompt transportation to appointments, screenings, and treatments paramount. This analysis focuses on breast cancer-related healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transportation options, and alternative transportation services available to residents of Masontown.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Masontown is undoubtedly the Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown, approximately 25 miles away. Driving along **US-19 South** is the most direct route, typically taking around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive is relatively straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times. The roads can become treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to essential appointments.

Alternatively, you could take **WV-7 East** to **I-68 West** to reach Morgantown. This route adds a few miles but might offer a slightly smoother ride, especially during peak traffic hours. However, it's important to consider the possibility of interstate accidents or construction, which could also cause delays. The efficiency of these routes is directly linked to your ability to maintain your health.

Public transportation options are limited in the area. The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) operates bus routes, but direct service from Masontown to Morgantown is not available. Residents would likely need to rely on a combination of routes, requiring transfers and significantly extending travel times. This lack of direct service poses a significant challenge for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments, making healthcare access more difficult.

The MCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers could still pose difficulties for those with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment who may be experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown area. However, their availability in Masontown itself can be inconsistent, and wait times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability is a major factor when relying on these services for critical medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies, such as MedTrans and various local providers, operate in the region. However, it's crucial to research these services, verify insurance coverage, and book appointments well in advance, as demand can be high.

The distance to specialized breast cancer centers, such as those offering advanced treatments like radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, further complicates the transportation equation. While Mon Health Medical Center offers comprehensive services, some patients may require referral to facilities in Pittsburgh, approximately 80 miles away.

Reaching Pittsburgh necessitates a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, primarily via **I-79 North**. This longer journey demands careful planning, considering potential traffic delays and the need for rest stops. The extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other treatment-related side effects.

The availability of medical transportation services becomes even more crucial for these longer journeys. Patients may also need to explore options for overnight stays near the treatment center, adding to the logistical and financial considerations. This highlights the impact of transportation on healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Masontown, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Morgantown offers reasonable access to basic healthcare services, the lack of direct public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the limited availability of medical transportation options pose significant challenges.

The longer travel times to specialized treatment centers in Pittsburgh further exacerbate these challenges. For individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk, these transportation limitations can translate into delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and exploring all available transportation resources.

Moving to Masontown requires a careful assessment of your individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Consider the frequency of appointments, the type of treatment required, and your personal ability to drive or arrange transportation. Thoroughly research available medical transportation services and confirm insurance coverage. Familiarize yourself with the MCTA routes, even if they require transfers.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Masontown highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a sense of community and a lower cost of living, the limitations in transportation infrastructure demand proactive planning and a realistic assessment of your ability to navigate the healthcare system. Prioritizing healthcare access and transportation solutions is essential for ensuring timely and effective care, making this a crucial element when moving to Masontown.