26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.24 percent of residents in 26767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Potomac Valley Hospital with a distance of 19.41 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wiley Ford (26767)

The journey to breast cancer care in Wiley Ford, West Virginia (ZIP code 26767), presents a complex equation. This isn't merely about the distance to a clinic; it's a multifaceted problem encompassing transportation options, wait times, and the availability of specialized services. A "Breast Cancer Score" attempts to quantify this complexity, offering prospective residents a clearer picture of healthcare access. This score considers the geographical reality of Wiley Ford, a community nestled near the Maryland border, and the available transportation infrastructure.

Wiley Ford's rural setting significantly impacts healthcare access. The absence of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create a unique set of challenges. This analysis considers drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative transportation options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, recognizing that the best healthcare is useless if it's inaccessible.

The primary artery connecting Wiley Ford to healthcare is **Interstate 68**. This highway provides relatively quick access to Cumberland, Maryland, a regional hub for medical services. However, traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. The secondary route is **U.S. Route 220**, which runs north-south, offering another option for reaching Cumberland and other nearby towns. Local roads, such as **Wiley Ford Road** and **New Creek Highway**, provide access to the main thoroughfares.

Drive times are critical. A breast cancer diagnosis often necessitates frequent appointments: diagnostic tests, consultations, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer center in Cumberland, Maryland, is approximately 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. This time can easily double during rush hour or adverse weather. The availability of parking and the ease of navigating medical facilities are also crucial components of the overall experience.

Public transit options in Wiley Ford are severely limited. The area lacks a dedicated public bus system. This presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. For those relying on public transportation, the situation is bleak. The lack of a robust system exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing long-term treatment. Medical transportation services, such as those provided by private companies, offer a more specialized solution. These services often cater to patients with specific needs, including wheelchair accessibility and stretcher transport.

The quality of healthcare access is not solely defined by physical proximity. It's also shaped by the availability of specialized services, the expertise of medical professionals, and the overall patient experience. For residents of Wiley Ford, the choice of a healthcare provider will likely be influenced by transportation realities.

The availability of support services is another critical factor. Cancer patients often require assistance with various aspects of their lives, including childcare, home healthcare, and financial counseling. The proximity of these resources and their accessibility are essential components of the overall healthcare experience.

The Breast Cancer Score for Wiley Ford would consider all these factors. It would weigh drive times, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation. It would also consider the availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as mammography, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology.

Moving to Wiley Ford requires a careful consideration of healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score aims to provide a practical framework for this assessment. It is a tool to assist individuals in making informed decisions.

The absence of robust public transportation is a significant drawback. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services adds to the complexity of healthcare access. This underscores the importance of careful planning and the potential need for alternative solutions.

The score would also consider the overall quality of care available in the region. This includes the accreditation of medical facilities, the experience of medical professionals, and the availability of support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, acknowledging that healthcare access is more than just a matter of distance.

The Breast Cancer Score is not simply a numerical value. It's a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It is a call for greater awareness of the challenges faced by residents.

The score would also emphasize the importance of proactive planning. Individuals considering moving to Wiley Ford, or those already residing there, should research their healthcare options thoroughly. They should identify the nearest medical facilities, assess transportation needs, and explore available support services.

The score should also highlight the importance of community support. Neighbors, friends, and family can play a crucial role in providing transportation, assistance, and emotional support. The strength of the community can be a vital resource for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The Breast Cancer Score is designed to be a dynamic tool, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. As new medical facilities open, transportation options improve, and support services become available, the score would be updated to reflect these changes.

The ultimate goal of the Breast Cancer Score is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It's a tool to promote healthcare access, to raise awareness of the challenges faced by residents of Wiley Ford, and to encourage a more compassionate and supportive community.