25076, Ethel, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25076, Ethel, West Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.63 percent of residents in 25076 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25076

The crisp air of Ethel, West Virginia, whispers promises of a simpler life. Nestled within the embrace of Logan County, ZIP code 25076 offers a landscape of rolling hills and a close-knit community. Yet, the serenity masks a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially those with health concerns: **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for residents of 25076, specifically concerning their ability to reach medical facilities for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on **transportation** realities.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. It is designed to illuminate the practical hurdles and potential solutions for accessing potentially life-saving care, a critical factor for anyone considering **moving to Ethel**.

The primary hurdle for residents of 25076 is distance. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located outside the immediate vicinity. The Logan Regional Medical Center, the closest major hospital, sits approximately 15 to 20 miles away, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. The journey typically involves navigating the winding roads, primarily using **West Virginia Route 10**, also known as the Guyandotte River Road. This route can be subject to delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours, and potential road closures due to weather conditions.

Beyond Logan, the next closest options include facilities in Charleston, the state capital, a significantly longer drive. This journey requires a minimum of an hour and a half, often exceeding two hours depending on traffic and route. The primary route involves using **West Virginia Route 10** to connect with **U.S. Route 119** and then **Interstate 64**. This extended travel time presents a significant challenge for individuals needing regular appointments, such as those undergoing lung cancer treatment.

Public **transportation** options within 25076 are extremely limited. Logan County does offer a public transit system, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve essential services within the county. Direct routes to major hospitals outside of Logan are not available. The buses may not be equipped with ADA features. This lack of reliable public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or the financial means to afford alternative **transportation** options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability is often contingent on driver availability, which can be scarce in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing for long distances, such as to Charleston, can be prohibitive, further limiting **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services are available in the region. Companies like MedExpress and various private ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transport. These services can provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other **transportation** options. However, these services come with a cost, and the availability of specific services may vary depending on insurance coverage and the individual's medical needs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 25076 is negatively impacted by the factors above. The long distances to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for residents. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential financial burden of alternative **transportation** options further exacerbate these challenges. The score is further reduced by the lack of readily available information regarding ADA compliance on available **transportation**.

However, the score is partially offset by the availability of medical **transportation** services. These services, while costly, provide a critical link to care for those who cannot otherwise access it. The presence of the Logan Regional Medical Center, while not ideally located, offers a closer option than facilities in Charleston, reducing travel time for some residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Ethel** and concerned about lung cancer care, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and circumstances is essential. This includes evaluating their access to a reliable vehicle, their insurance coverage, and their financial ability to afford alternative **transportation** options.

The score can be improved by advocating for increased public transit services, particularly routes that connect 25076 with major healthcare facilities. Supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services in the area would also enhance **healthcare access**. Finally, raising awareness about available medical **transportation** services and ensuring that these services are accessible and affordable is crucial.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 25076 serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of considering all aspects of **healthcare access** when making decisions about where to live. While the beauty and tranquility of Ethel are undeniable, the challenges posed by the current **transportation** landscape cannot be ignored. Understanding these realities is vital for ensuring that residents have the best possible chance of receiving timely and effective lung cancer care.

The score is ultimately determined by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the inconsistent ride-sharing availability, coupled with the distance to major healthcare facilities, create a challenging environment for **healthcare access** in 25076. The presence of medical **transportation** services offers a partial solution, but the overall score remains significantly impacted by the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure.

Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 25076 is a reflection of the realities of rural **healthcare access**. It underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** options, increase awareness of available services, and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need, regardless of their location. This is especially crucial for anyone considering **moving to Ethel**, as the availability of adequate **transportation** is a critical component of their overall well-being.