26726, Keyser, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26726, Keyser, West Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.70 percent of residents in 26726 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Potomac Valley Hospital with a distance of 1.91 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 26726**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a critical component of overall well-being. In the context of ZIP Code 26726, encompassing Keyser, West Virginia, understanding the transportation landscape becomes paramount. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," considers the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services, factoring in transportation options and their associated challenges. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents, prospective movers, and healthcare providers, highlighting the realities of navigating the healthcare system in this specific geographic area.

The primary concern is the availability of specialized breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The nearest comprehensive facilities are located in Cumberland, Maryland, and Morgantown, West Virginia, requiring significant travel times for residents of 26726. This immediately introduces a transportation hurdle.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in this region. The primary arteries for reaching Cumberland, Maryland, include US Route 50 East, a major east-west thoroughfare, and occasionally, depending on the specific destination within Cumberland, US Route 220 North. The journey typically spans approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the exact location within Cumberland.

For those seeking care in Morgantown, the drive becomes more extensive. This involves navigating US Route 50 West, then transitioning onto Interstate 68 West. The total drive time can range from 1 hour and 45 minutes to over 2 hours, a considerable commitment for regular appointments and treatments. The quality of the roadways, including the presence of potholes and the potential for inclement weather, can further impact travel times and add stress to an already challenging situation.

The availability of reliable personal transportation is, therefore, a crucial factor. Individuals without a personal vehicle, or those facing mobility limitations, face significant barriers.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 26726 are extremely limited, presenting a major challenge for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. There is no established public bus system that directly connects Keyser with Cumberland or Morgantown. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with low incomes, disabilities, or those unable to drive due to medical conditions.

While the specifics of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility are not readily available for any existing limited public transit options, the absence of a robust public transportation network underscores the need for alternative solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, making it an unsustainable option for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized medical transport companies, provide a more specialized solution. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services typically come at a higher cost and may require advance booking, making them less flexible for urgent needs or last-minute appointments.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 26726 is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively long drive times to specialized care facilities in Cumberland and Morgantown significantly impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of a reliable public transit system severely limits healthcare access for many residents.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The variability and cost of ride-sharing services pose a challenge.
* **Medical Transport Costs:** The expense of medical transport services creates a financial barrier.
* **Geographic Isolation:** The rural nature of the area and the distance to major medical centers exacerbate transportation challenges.

**Moving to Keyser: Considering Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Keyser, West Virginia, the "Breast Cancer Score" should be a critical consideration. The challenges of accessing specialized breast cancer care necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, evaluate the availability of personal vehicles, and consider the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport.

It is highly recommended that potential residents research and establish relationships with healthcare providers in advance of a move. This includes understanding the availability of appointments, the referral process, and the transportation options available to reach those providers.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Transportation and Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 26726 reflects the significant transportation challenges faced by residents seeking breast cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This may include advocating for expanded public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, and supporting the development of local healthcare resources.

For individuals living with or at risk of breast cancer in 26726, proactive planning, early engagement with healthcare providers, and a clear understanding of transportation options are essential for navigating the healthcare system effectively. The community must work together to improve transportation and healthcare access, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and comprehensive care.