26547, Reedsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26547, Reedsville, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.87 percent of residents in 26547 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.25 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reedsville (ZIP Code 26547)

The journey to breast cancer care in Reedsville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26547), is a multifaceted equation. It’s not merely about the availability of medical professionals; it’s a complex interplay of transportation options, commute times, and the overall accessibility of healthcare resources. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these factors, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Reedsville, particularly those with existing or potential breast cancer concerns. It assesses the ease with which individuals can access vital screenings, diagnoses, treatments, and supportive care, recognizing that transportation is a critical determinant of healthcare access.

Reedsville, a rural community nestled within Preston County, presents unique challenges. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel times to specialized medical facilities. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers this reality, evaluating the available transportation infrastructure and the distances patients must traverse to receive comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes assessing drive times, public transportation options, and alternative transportation solutions, all while acknowledging the limitations inherent in a rural environment.

The primary artery connecting Reedsville to the broader healthcare landscape is **U.S. Route 50**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on Route 50 leads to Morgantown, the county seat, where many specialized medical services are concentrated. Drive times to Morgantown, home to WVU Medicine facilities, can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. A typical commute from Reedsville to Morgantown, covering roughly 25 miles, could range from 35 to 50 minutes. This drive is primarily on Route 50, with potential congestion near Morgantown, particularly during peak hours.

Alternatively, residents might travel west on Route 50 to reach Grafton, where additional healthcare options are available. This drive is generally shorter, around 20 miles, and typically takes 30 to 40 minutes. However, the range of specialized breast cancer services in Grafton may be more limited than in Morgantown.

Other roads, such as **West Virginia Route 92** and various county roads, provide alternative routes, but they are often winding and less direct, potentially increasing travel times. These roads are also more susceptible to closures due to inclement weather, a significant consideration in West Virginia.

Public transportation options in Reedsville are limited. The Preston County Public Transit Authority (PCPTA) provides bus services within the county. However, its routes and schedules are often infrequent, and service to Morgantown may require transfers, significantly extending travel times. The PCPTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. However, the infrequency of service makes it a less viable option for regular medical appointments. Information on routes and schedules can be found on the Preston County website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Morgantown and may extend their services to Reedsville, although availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly those requiring frequent transportation for treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies, such as MedTrans and First Choice Medical Transportation, operate in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack access to personal transportation. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also factors in the availability of specific breast cancer services within the accessible radius. While Morgantown offers a comprehensive range of services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care, the accessibility of these services is directly tied to transportation. The drive time to Morgantown, as previously mentioned, is a significant factor.

Furthermore, the score considers the availability of support services, such as cancer support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. These services are crucial for patients navigating the emotional and financial challenges of breast cancer. The accessibility of these resources, often located in Morgantown, is also influenced by transportation constraints.

For individuals considering moving to Reedsville with breast cancer concerns, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning. It underscores the need to factor in the commute times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation. It also emphasizes the importance of researching the availability of specific breast cancer services and support resources within the accessible radius.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Reedsville, therefore, is not simply a numerical value. It is a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities faced by residents. It underscores the critical role of transportation in healthcare access, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness to ensure that individuals in Reedsville can receive the timely and comprehensive breast cancer care they deserve. It also highlights the potential benefits of initiatives aimed at improving transportation infrastructure and expanding healthcare services within the community. Ultimately, the goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, ensuring that they have the support and resources they need to navigate the complexities of breast cancer care.