25267, Normantown, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25267, Normantown, West Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.27 percent of residents in 25267 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 9.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Normantown, WV (ZIP Code 25267) and Healthcare Access

Normantown, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Calhoun County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for the area, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely access to essential medical services. The goal is to paint a vivid picture of the realities faced by residents, offering insights for those contemplating moving to Normantown and highlighting areas where improvements in healthcare access are critically needed.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency with which residents can access lung cancer-related healthcare. This includes screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The factors considered are transportation options, distance to healthcare facilities, and the availability of supportive services.

Normantown's rural setting significantly influences healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, demanding reliance on various transportation methods. The primary artery for travel is Route 16, a winding road that snakes through the county, connecting Normantown to neighboring towns and cities. Route 16, while scenic, can be slow-going due to its curves and occasional traffic. Further travel often involves connecting to the more major thoroughfares, such as US Route 33, which provides access to larger medical centers in the region.

Driving times are a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. The drive to Charleston, West Virginia, the state's capital and home to several major hospitals, including CAMC (Charleston Area Medical Center), can take approximately two hours via US Route 33 and Interstate 79. This journey, while feasible, can be arduous for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms. The drive to Morgantown, WV, home to the WVU Medicine, another major healthcare system, is about a three-hour drive, again via US Route 33 and Interstate 79. These long drives can be exhausting and may present a barrier to consistent care.

Public transportation options are limited in Normantown and the surrounding areas. Calhoun County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The lack of readily available public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. This absence directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it restricts access to crucial medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Normantown. The lack of these services further compounds the transportation challenges. Residents must rely on personal vehicles, family members, or medical transportation services to reach healthcare facilities. This dependence can create scheduling difficulties and financial burdens.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans or similar providers, are available but may require advance booking and can be expensive. These services are often crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their cost and potential scheduling limitations impact the Lung Cancer Score.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for all transportation options. While medical transportation services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public transit and the potential for long drive times in personal vehicles can present barriers. The absence of accessible options, particularly for those with mobility limitations, negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of supportive services, such as patient navigation and transportation assistance programs, can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These programs can help patients coordinate rides, navigate the healthcare system, and access financial assistance. The presence of these services in the region positively influences the Lung Cancer Score.

The impact of these transportation challenges on the Lung Cancer Score is significant. The long drive times, limited public transit, and lack of ride-sharing services create barriers to timely access to healthcare. This can delay diagnosis, hinder treatment adherence, and negatively impact patient outcomes. The need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and the expansion of supportive services is evident.

For individuals considering moving to Normantown, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. Careful consideration of the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for long travel times is crucial. Planning for healthcare needs, including the availability of reliable transportation, should be a priority.

The Lung Cancer Score for Normantown, West Virginia, reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the transportation challenges present a significant hurdle for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. Addressing these challenges through improved infrastructure, expanded public transit options, and increased access to supportive services is critical to improving healthcare access and outcomes for residents of Normantown and the surrounding areas. The health of the community hinges on the ability to navigate the distance to healthcare, making transportation a vital component of overall well-being.