26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.26 percent of residents in 26143 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 16.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabeth, WV (ZIP Code 26143)

The air in Elizabeth, West Virginia, a town nestled in the rolling hills of Wirt County, whispers of a slower pace, a close-knit community, and the enduring beauty of the Appalachian landscape. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can be shattered by the urgent need for specialized medical care, often requiring a complex dance with **transportation** challenges. This write-up explores the realities of **healthcare access** for residents of ZIP code 26143, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on available **transportation** options. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Elizabeth**, or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare landscape.

The Lung Cancer Score considers factors such as drive times to cancer treatment centers, public **transportation** availability, ride-sharing options, and medical **transportation** services. It's a practical guide, acknowledging the unique demands of this disease and the geographical realities of rural healthcare.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Elizabeth is the ability to reach medical facilities. The primary route out of town is via West Virginia Route 14, a winding two-lane road that connects Elizabeth to Parkersburg, the nearest city with comprehensive medical services. Driving to the WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, a potential destination for cancer care, typically takes around 45 minutes, covering approximately 30 miles. This drive involves navigating WV-14 and then transitioning onto US-50 East, a major east-west highway. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times.

Further afield, the drive to Morgantown, home to the WVU Cancer Institute, is a more substantial undertaking. This journey, roughly 150 miles, demands approximately three hours of driving, primarily on US-50 East and Interstate 79 North. This longer commute underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** and careful planning for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The availability of overnight accommodations near these treatment centers becomes a critical consideration for patients and their families.

Public **transportation** options in Elizabeth are limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides some bus service within the region, but routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve Elizabeth. Information on specific routes, including ADA accessibility features, is readily available on the MOVTA website. The absence of robust public **transportation** underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods for accessing healthcare. This is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in Elizabeth itself is less certain, and wait times could be significant. Furthermore, the cost of frequent rides to and from Parkersburg or Morgantown can quickly become a financial burden. This variable accessibility further impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and luggage. Researching and securing these services in advance is crucial, as demand can be high. Contacting local healthcare providers or support groups can provide valuable information on reputable medical **transportation** providers.

The Lung Cancer Score for Elizabeth, WV (ZIP Code 26143) reflects the challenges inherent in accessing specialized cancer care. The score is influenced by the distance to treatment centers, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. While medical **transportation** services offer a vital support system, their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

For individuals **moving to Elizabeth** or currently residing there, proactive planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, researching cancer treatment options in the surrounding area, and familiarizing oneself with available **transportation** resources. Building a support network of family, friends, and community organizations can provide invaluable assistance.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Elizabeth. It's a reminder that while the community offers a tranquil environment, navigating the complexities of cancer care requires careful consideration of **transportation** and healthcare access. The score is not a definitive judgment but rather a call to action, encouraging residents to advocate for improved healthcare resources and to proactively plan for their well-being. The journey through cancer is challenging, and having a clear understanding of the **transportation** landscape is a crucial step in navigating it.