24894, Warriormine, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24894, Warriormine, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.47 percent of residents in 24894 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Welch Community Hospital with a distance of 11.83 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warriormine, ZIP Code 24894

The crisp mountain air of Warriormine, West Virginia, in ZIP code 24894, offers a certain allure. For those considering a move, particularly individuals with or at risk of lung cancer, understanding the realities of **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options to medical facilities, essential for timely diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up care. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

Warriormine itself is a small, unincorporated community nestled within McDowell County. This remoteness significantly impacts the availability of specialized medical services. The nearest hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment are located in larger towns, necessitating reliance on various forms of **transportation**.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries connecting Warriormine to healthcare are US Route 52 and West Virginia Route 16. These roads, while scenic, can be winding and subject to weather-related delays, especially during winter.

The closest hospital offering comprehensive cancer care is the Bluefield Regional Medical Center in Bluefield, WV. The drive to Bluefield via US-52 is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey presents a moderate challenge, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Another viable option is the Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) in Charleston, WV. This is a more specialized facility. The drive to Charleston is considerably longer, spanning approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via WV-16 and US-119. This extended travel time significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it can create barriers to timely care.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transit options in McDowell County are limited. The primary provider is the McDowell County Public Transit Authority. Service frequency is infrequent, and routes are primarily focused on connecting smaller communities.

Unfortunately, direct routes from Warriormine to hospitals in Bluefield or Charleston are unavailable. Passengers would likely need to transfer multiple times, significantly extending travel times and potentially creating logistical challenges, especially for individuals with mobility issues or undergoing treatment.

ADA accessibility, while a legal requirement, should be verified directly with the McDowell County Public Transit Authority. The limited scope and infrequent service of public transit significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, making it a less reliable option for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Evaluation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in McDowell County. Availability is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are crucial for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit. Several companies operate in the region, including MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR).

NEMT services can transport patients to and from medical appointments, but availability and cost vary. The Lung Cancer Score is positively impacted by the availability of these services, especially for those requiring regular treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. However, the reliance on external services adds complexity to healthcare access.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

Lung cancer treatment often involves frequent appointments for diagnostic tests (CT scans, PET scans), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. The extended travel times to specialized facilities in Bluefield or Charleston can create significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment.

Fatigue, shortness of breath, and other side effects of treatment can make long drives or complex public transit routes extremely difficult. The availability of reliable and accessible **transportation** becomes critical.

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation:**

The Lung Cancer Score is a subjective assessment based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Longer drive times negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** Limited availability and infrequent service significantly lower the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Limited presence and unreliability negatively impact the score.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of NEMT services positively impacts the score, but reliance on external services adds complexity.
* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** Distance to specialized cancer centers affects the score.

**The Score for Warriormine, ZIP Code 24894:**

Considering the factors above, the Lung Cancer Score for Warriormine, ZIP code 24894, is **moderate**. While medical transport options are available, the long drive times to specialized care centers, the limited public transit, and the unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

Individuals with or at risk of lung cancer considering **moving to Warriormine** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and **transportation** options.

* **Pre-existing Conditions:** Those with pre-existing lung conditions should consult with their physicians regarding the feasibility of relocating to an area with limited access to specialized care.
* **Transportation Planning:** Prioritize reliable **transportation** arrangements. Consider purchasing a reliable vehicle, establishing relationships with NEMT providers, and exploring the potential for family or friend support.
* **Proximity to Care:** If possible, consider residing closer to Bluefield or Charleston to reduce travel times and improve **healthcare access**.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure comprehensive insurance coverage that includes medical transport and out-of-network care if necessary.
* **Local Resources:** Investigate local support groups and community resources that may offer assistance with **transportation** or other needs.

The decision to relocate to Warriormine requires careful consideration of the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. While the area offers natural beauty and a close-knit community, individuals with or at risk of lung cancer must prioritize their health and ensure they can access timely and effective medical care. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is a critical step in making an informed decision.