25164, Procious, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25164, Procious, West Virginia is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.19 percent of residents in 25164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Montgomery General Hospital, Inc with a distance of 23.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Procious, WV (ZIP Code 25164)

The crisp mountain air of Procious, West Virginia, nestled within the embrace of Clay County, holds a certain allure. For those contemplating a move, envisioning a life interwoven with nature's tapestry, it's a compelling prospect. However, before packing your bags and settling into the tranquil rhythm of rural living, a critical consideration emerges: healthcare access. Specifically, the ability to efficiently reach medical facilities for vital screenings and treatments, particularly concerning a disease as serious as lung cancer, must be thoroughly evaluated. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP Code 25164, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical realities. Procious is a community shaped by the winding roads and rugged terrain characteristic of the Appalachian region. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in Charleston, the state capital, roughly 60 miles to the southwest. The primary route for this commute is via **US Route 119 South**, a two-lane highway that meanders through the valleys and over the hills. This journey typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the driver's speed.

Further complicating matters, the road quality on US Route 119 can vary. During inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, travel times can significantly increase, and the risk of accidents rises. Secondary roads, such as **County Route 16** and **County Route 17**, offer alternative routes, but they are often narrower, more winding, and may be less well-maintained. Therefore, the reliability of personal transportation is paramount. For individuals without access to a personal vehicle, the healthcare access landscape becomes significantly more challenging.

Public transportation options in this rural setting are limited. The Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (KRT), which operates in the Charleston area, does not extend its services to Procious. The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant barrier for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This severely restricts healthcare access, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations.

The absence of readily available public transit necessitates exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Charleston area, but their availability in Procious is sporadic. The lack of consistent service, coupled with potentially higher fares for longer distances, presents a considerable obstacle. Booking a ride-share for a routine check-up or a chemotherapy session can be both costly and unreliable, adding stress to an already difficult situation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential lifeline. Several companies, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport, serve the Charleston area. However, the availability of these services in Procious and the associated costs must be carefully considered. Booking in advance is often required, and the expenses can be substantial, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Procious, WV (25164) reflects these challenges. The primary factor influencing the score is the dependence on personal transportation. The long distances to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited public transit options, place a significant burden on residents. The reliance on US Route 119, with its potential for weather-related delays, further exacerbates the situation.

The score is also impacted by the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. While these options exist, their sporadic availability and associated costs create additional barriers. The lack of readily accessible and affordable transportation can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and compromised treatment outcomes. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Procious, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer.

For individuals considering a move to Procious, careful planning is essential. Before relocating, it's crucial to assess personal transportation capabilities. Securing reliable access to a vehicle is paramount. Researching and pre-arranging medical transportation services, if necessary, is also highly recommended. Investigating the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area is another crucial step.

Furthermore, prospective residents should factor in the potential costs associated with healthcare access. The expenses of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-share or medical transport fees, can significantly impact a household budget. This underscores the importance of financial planning and budgeting for healthcare-related transportation costs.

Moreover, individuals with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer should consult with their healthcare providers before making a move. Discussing the potential challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural setting and developing a comprehensive healthcare plan is crucial. This plan should include strategies for obtaining timely medical care, managing transportation logistics, and addressing any potential financial burdens.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Procious, WV (25164) highlights the transportation-related challenges associated with healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquil lifestyle of the area are undeniable, the limitations in transportation infrastructure and the distances to healthcare facilities pose significant hurdles. For those prioritizing healthcare access, particularly regarding lung cancer screening and treatment, a careful evaluation of these factors is essential. The decision to move to Procious should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation landscape and a proactive plan to ensure timely and reliable access to medical care. Moving to Procious requires a thoughtful approach to healthcare access, recognizing the importance of transportation as a critical component of overall well-being.