25009, Ashford, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25009, Ashford, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.78 percent of residents in 25009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boone Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.95 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ashford, WV (ZIP Code 25009)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of mountain vistas and the quiet hum of rural life in Ashford, West Virginia, ZIP code 25009. But for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer, the serenity is often shadowed by the pressing need for timely and accessible healthcare. Understanding the challenges of **transportation** to treatment becomes paramount. This write-up explores the complexities of **healthcare access** in Ashford, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the realities of getting to and from crucial medical appointments. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Ashford**, as the availability of reliable **transportation** options can significantly impact their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score considers various factors: drive times to oncology centers, availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each element is meticulously assessed to paint a realistic picture of the landscape faced by lung cancer patients in this community. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their care and their future.

Ashford, nestled within the heart of West Virginia, presents unique **transportation** challenges. The primary arteries connecting the community to specialized medical facilities are the state highways and local roads. The most direct route to Charleston, the nearest city with comprehensive cancer care, involves navigating US Route 119 South. This winding highway, while scenic, can be treacherous during inclement weather, potentially extending drive times and creating delays.

The drive to Charleston from Ashford, assuming optimal traffic conditions, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This journey, however, can easily stretch to over 90 minutes during peak hours or due to unforeseen circumstances like accidents or road closures. The condition of US Route 119 and the secondary roads, such as County Route 3, plays a critical role in the overall **healthcare access** picture.

Beyond Charleston, Morgantown and Huntington offer additional specialized cancer centers, albeit requiring significantly longer travel times. Reaching Morgantown involves a drive of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via US Route 119 South and I-79 North. Huntington, accessible via US Route 119 South and I-64 West, is roughly a 2-hour drive. These extended travel times highlight the importance of reliable **transportation** and the potential for fatigue and discomfort for patients undergoing treatment.

Public **transportation** options in Ashford are limited. The Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (KRT) provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are primarily focused on the Charleston area. Residents of Ashford would likely need to travel to a designated KRT stop, often requiring a ride from a friend, family member, or a local taxi service.

The KRT system, while offering some ADA-accessible buses, may not be ideal for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The potential for long waits, multiple transfers, and exposure to the elements can exacerbate the physical and emotional strain of treatment. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Charleston area, offering a potential solution for **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the availability of drivers in Ashford and the surrounding rural areas is often unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services cost-prohibitive for some patients.

Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services for recurring appointments, such as weekly chemotherapy sessions, can be a concern. Patients need a dependable **transportation** plan they can count on. Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, offer a more specialized option.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the Charleston area, including companies like First Call Ambulance and MedExpress. These services typically offer door-to-door service, providing assistance with boarding and disembarking, and ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. However, these services often come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public transit.

The cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for patients with limited financial resources. Insurance coverage for medical **transportation** varies, and patients may be responsible for a portion of the cost. This financial burden can add to the stress and anxiety already associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.

The Lung Cancer Score for Ashford, WV (25009) is a composite assessment, considering the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation**. The score reflects the challenges patients face in accessing timely and convenient medical care. The score is not a static number, but a dynamic assessment that can change based on infrastructure improvements, the expansion of public transit, or the availability of new **transportation** options.

For patients in Ashford, the reliance on personal vehicles or the need for assistance from friends and family is high. The lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score. The cost of medical **transportation** further compounds the challenges, making it crucial for patients to plan their **transportation** needs well in advance.

This write-up serves as a starting point for understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** in Ashford. Individuals considering **moving to Ashford** or those already residing in the area should carefully evaluate their **transportation** options and the potential impact on their treatment journey. Proactive planning, exploring all available resources, and advocating for improved **transportation** services are essential for ensuring that lung cancer patients in Ashford receive the care they deserve.