Health Scores Near 25044, Clear Creek, West Virginia
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The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25044, Clear Creek, West Virginia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 25044 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Raleigh General Hospital with a distance of 11.41 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 25044, Clear Creek, West Virginia
| Lung Cancer Score | 70 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 57 |
| Provider Score | 90 |
| Hospital Score | 39 |
| Travel Score | 35 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 25044 | Clear Creek | West Virginia |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.72 |
| 1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 20.26 |
| 2 Cars | 100.00 | 100.00 | 41.64 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 35.38 |
Vehicular Access in 25044, Clear Creek, West Virginia
**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 25044**
The air hangs heavy with the scent of coal and damp earth in Clear Creek, West Virginia, ZIP code 25044. This rural community, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing a diagnosis of lung cancer. The very fabric of life here is interwoven with the practicalities of transportation, a crucial factor impacting the quality of care. The Lung Cancer Score, a composite assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, paints a vivid picture of the hurdles and possibilities for residents.
The primary obstacle in 25044 is distance. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in Charleston, approximately 60 to 75 miles away, or Beckley, about 50 to 60 miles away. These distances translate into significant travel times, placing a burden on individuals already grappling with a serious illness.
Driving is the predominant mode of transportation. The journey to Charleston typically involves navigating **West Virginia Route 10**, a winding two-lane highway that snakes through the mountains. This route can be treacherous during inclement weather, increasing travel times and the risk of accidents. The final leg of the trip often involves the **West Virginia Turnpike (I-77)**, a toll road, adding to the overall cost of healthcare.
Alternatively, the route to Beckley utilizes **West Virginia Route 3**, another mountain road with its own set of challenges. The final stretch often involves **U.S. Route 19**, a somewhat wider highway, but still subject to traffic and weather delays. The drive times, even under ideal conditions, can be substantial, consuming valuable time that could be spent on treatment or recovery.
Public transportation options in 25044 are severely limited. The Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (KRT) does not extend its services to this area. The Mountain LineMountain Line Transit Authority, which serves Morgantown and surrounding areas, is also not an option. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles or the kindness of neighbors and family members.
The lack of public transportation presents a significant challenge for those unable to drive, whether due to age, disability, or the effects of their illness. The absence of accessible routes, including those with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, further compounds the difficulties. The isolation created by the lack of transportation options can exacerbate the emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities like Charleston and Beckley. However, their availability in 25044 is sporadic and unreliable. The limited number of drivers in this rural area often translates into longer wait times and higher fares, making them an impractical or unaffordable option for regular medical appointments.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for those with Medicaid or other forms of insurance.
The economic realities of 25044 further complicate the picture. Many residents are low-income, making the costs of transportation, including gas, tolls, and vehicle maintenance, a significant burden. The financial strain of healthcare, coupled with the cost of travel, can create a barrier to accessing timely and appropriate medical care.
The Lung Cancer Score for 25044 is significantly impacted by these factors. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options creates a substantial hurdle for residents seeking diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a reduced score.
The implications of these transportation challenges are far-reaching. Delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to poorer outcomes for lung cancer patients. Missed appointments, due to transportation difficulties, can disrupt treatment plans and hinder recovery. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating these transportation obstacles can also negatively impact patients' overall well-being.
The situation in 25044 highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. Improving transportation options, such as expanding public transit, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation, could significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score and the quality of life for residents.
For someone moving to Clear Creek, understanding these transportation challenges is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services before making the move. Researching medical transportation options, exploring potential ride-sharing availability, and understanding the financial implications of travel are all essential steps.
The future of healthcare access in 25044 depends on addressing the transportation deficit. Community initiatives, government programs, and private sector involvement are all needed to improve the Lung Cancer Score and ensure that residents have access to the care they need. Investing in transportation infrastructure, promoting accessible healthcare services, and providing financial assistance are crucial steps toward creating a healthier and more equitable community.
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