25507, Ceredo, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25507, Ceredo, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.85 percent of residents in 25507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huntington Va Medical Center with a distance of 2.94 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ceredo, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25507)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of coal dust and the whispers of the Ohio River in Ceredo, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25507). For residents, the beauty of the Appalachian foothills is intertwined with the harsh realities of rural life, including challenges in accessing vital healthcare. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities for individuals in Ceredo, specifically focusing on lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, offering a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Ceredo or currently residing there. The goal is to illuminate the complexities of healthcare access and highlight the potential difficulties for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The most significant factor influencing the Lung Cancer Score is the availability of timely transportation. A diagnosis of lung cancer often necessitates frequent appointments for diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. Delays in accessing these services can significantly impact a patient's prognosis and quality of life. In Ceredo, the primary challenge lies in the geographical isolation and the limited public transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Roadways: A Critical Assessment**

The closest major healthcare facilities offering comprehensive cancer care are located in Huntington, West Virginia, approximately 20 miles west of Ceredo. This distance translates to a drive time that can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route is via **U.S. Route 60**, a two-lane highway that can become congested during peak hours, especially near the city limits of Huntington. Expect a drive time of 30-45 minutes under normal conditions.

Another route option is **West Virginia Route 75**, which connects to **Interstate 64** (I-64) west towards Huntington. This route might offer a slightly faster journey, especially if traffic on Route 60 is heavy. However, it also adds an additional layer of potential complications, such as navigating the interstate and dealing with potential construction delays. In ideal conditions, the drive time via I-64 could be similar to Route 60, but it is less predictable.

The condition of these roadways is also a factor. Rural roads are often subject to potholes, uneven surfaces, and the effects of weather, especially during winter. These conditions can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other physical limitations. Therefore, the Lung Cancer Score is negatively impacted by the reliance on these roadways.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Significant Barriers**

Public transportation options in Ceredo are severely limited. The primary provider is the **Huntington Area Rapid Transit (HART)**, which offers bus routes throughout the Huntington metropolitan area. However, HART's service in Ceredo is minimal, with infrequent routes that may not directly connect to healthcare facilities. The lack of frequent service presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles.

Furthermore, the accessibility of HART's buses for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing cancer treatment, is a critical consideration. While HART is mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that services are accessible to individuals with mobility limitations, the practicality of these features is often tested by the limited route frequency and the need for multiple transfers. The Lung Cancer Score must reflect the challenges faced by individuals relying on public transportation, particularly those with physical limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Huntington area, offering a potential alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Ceredo can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited cellular service. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources, particularly those facing the financial burdens of cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. Several providers operate in the Huntington area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for appointments scheduled on short notice. The Lung Cancer Score must acknowledge the role of these services while also recognizing the potential financial and logistical challenges they present.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

Considering all the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for Ceredo, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25507) is relatively low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions all contribute to a challenging environment for accessing healthcare. The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services and the expense of medical transportation further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the difficulties in accessing timely and reliable transportation can have a profound impact on their treatment and overall well-being. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the transportation barriers that exist in rural communities and ensuring that all individuals have equal access to the healthcare they need. The score underscores the need for improved public transportation infrastructure, increased access to affordable ride-sharing services, and expanded medical transportation options to improve healthcare access for the residents of Ceredo, and those considering moving to the area. The challenges of transportation significantly impact the healthcare access for those in Ceredo, and the need for improvements is clear.