26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.67 percent of residents in 26101 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 1.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 26101

The air hangs heavy with the weight of health concerns, particularly lung cancer, in the heart of Parkersburg, West Virginia, ZIP Code 26101. This write-up delves into the intricate dance of transportation and healthcare access, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for individuals considering a move or currently residing in this area. It considers the challenges and opportunities faced when seeking timely and effective care for this devastating disease.

The very fabric of healthcare access in 26101 is interwoven with the practicality of transportation. The distance to specialized oncology services, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing options directly impact a patient's ability to receive diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide a nuanced understanding of these factors, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in this area is the drive time. For residents of 26101, the primary destination for comprehensive cancer care is often the WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, located within the city limits. The journey, however, is not always a simple one. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, the drive to the hospital can range from a few minutes to upwards of twenty, especially during peak traffic hours. Navigating the city's arteries, including the busy intersection of **Interstate 77 (I-77)** and **US Route 50**, can be a daily challenge.

Commuting to healthcare in 26101 requires a grasp of the local road network. Residents often rely on **US Route 50**, a major east-west artery, to reach Camden Clark Medical Center. This route, while direct, can experience significant congestion during rush hour. Other critical roadways include **Ohio River Road**, offering scenic views but potentially slower travel times, and **Staunton Avenue**, which provides access to various medical offices and clinics. The condition of these roads, subject to weather and maintenance, can also influence travel times.

Public transportation presents an alternative, but its limitations must be acknowledged. The local transit authority, the **Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA)**, operates bus routes within Parkersburg and the surrounding areas. However, these routes, while offering a lifeline for some, may not always directly serve medical facilities or operate on schedules conducive to appointments and treatments. Specific route numbers, such as **Route 1 (Downtown)** and **Route 4 (Vienna)**, could be considered for those residing near their path.

The MOVTA buses do possess some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair accessibility, but the frequency of service and the geographic coverage may not fully meet the needs of all patients, particularly those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations. The availability of accessible transportation is a crucial factor in the "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

Ride-sharing services offer another option, but their availability and affordability can fluctuate. **Uber** and **Lyft** operate in the Parkersburg area, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent visits, and the availability of drivers can vary depending on the time of day and the demand.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by **CareRide** or **Med-Trans**, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair assistance, but they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability, cost, and reliability of these specialized transportation options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" takes into account the overall healthcare landscape in 26101. Beyond transportation, the availability of specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, is crucial. The proximity of these services to transportation hubs and the accessibility of the facilities themselves are critical factors. The presence of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that can assist patients in navigating the complexities of cancer care are also considered.

For individuals considering moving to Parkersburg, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a crucial assessment of healthcare access. It encourages prospective residents to research the proximity of their desired residence to medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the overall quality of cancer care in the area. Understanding these factors is essential for making an informed decision about their health and well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and the availability of support resources. Regular updates are necessary to reflect these changes and provide the most accurate and relevant information to residents and prospective residents of 26101.

The challenges of lung cancer are compounded by the complexities of transportation and healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a tool to navigate these complexities, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. By considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and well-being in the context of 26101.

The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Patients and their families should familiarize themselves with the local transportation options, identify the most convenient routes to medical facilities, and explore the availability of financial assistance for transportation costs. Early planning and preparation can significantly reduce the stress and burden of accessing healthcare.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a call to action. It encourages healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to collaborate to improve transportation options, enhance healthcare access, and provide comprehensive support for lung cancer patients in 26101. Only through a concerted effort can we ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need, when they need it.

The ultimate goal of the "Lung Cancer Score" is to empower individuals to take control of their health. By providing a clear and concise assessment of transportation and healthcare access, the score allows residents of 26101 to make informed decisions, navigate the challenges of lung cancer, and access the care they deserve. The journey to healthcare should not be a barrier; it should be a pathway to healing and hope.