26146, Friendly, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26146, Friendly, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.60 percent of residents in 26146 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sistersville General Hospital with a distance of 5.60 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Friendly, WV (ZIP Code 26146)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of renewal in Friendly, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26146). Nestled along the Ohio River, this community offers a slower pace, a connection to nature, and the undeniable allure of small-town life. But for individuals facing the complexities of lung cancer, the idyllic facade must be tempered with a pragmatic assessment of **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis, evaluating **transportation** options to essential medical facilities, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The most significant factor in our score hinges on the **transportation** infrastructure. In Friendly, the primary mode of personal conveyance is the automobile. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles east, and Marietta, Ohio, roughly the same distance west. The journey to Parkersburg typically involves navigating West Virginia Route 2, a scenic but often winding two-lane highway hugging the Ohio River. Drive times can fluctuate wildly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the time of day, but generally, expect a 45-minute to one-hour drive.

Marietta, Ohio, presents a similar challenge. The route involves crossing the Ohio River and utilizing Ohio Route 7, another road that can be subject to delays. The drive time is comparable to Parkersburg, averaging between 45 minutes and an hour. Considering the physical demands of lung cancer treatment, this travel time can be a significant burden, potentially impacting a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment schedule. This is a critical element of our 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Public **transportation** options are severely limited in this rural area. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides some service in the Parkersburg area, but its routes rarely extend into Friendly. Furthermore, the frequency of service and the potential for transfers make it a less-than-ideal option for patients undergoing cancer treatment, especially those with mobility limitations. Information on ADA accessibility for MOVTA routes is available on their website, but the sparse coverage in the Friendly area diminishes its practical value.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg and Marietta areas, but their presence in Friendly is sporadic. Relying on these services for regular appointments is unreliable and can be prohibitively expensive. The availability of ride-sharing is another consideration that lowers our 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Call Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly, especially for frequent appointments. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their condition.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' also considers the availability of local healthcare facilities. While Friendly itself may have a small clinic or physician's office, it is unlikely to offer specialized oncology services. Patients will need to travel to Parkersburg or Marietta for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The absence of local oncology specialists significantly impacts the score.

Another crucial factor is the availability of support services. Lung cancer patients often require support groups, counseling, and access to financial assistance programs. The proximity to these resources is vital for overall well-being. The lack of readily accessible support services in Friendly further complicates the healthcare landscape.

The overall picture paints a challenging scenario for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer in Friendly, WV. The reliance on personal vehicles for long-distance travel, the limited public **transportation** options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The absence of local oncology specialists and the scarcity of support services exacerbate these challenges.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Friendly, WV, is therefore negatively impacted by these factors. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the practical realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** must be carefully considered.

For those considering **moving to Friendly**, or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough evaluation of these factors is paramount. The time commitment, the financial implications, and the emotional toll of traveling for treatment should be weighed against the benefits of living in this close-knit community.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not merely a number; it's a reflection of the challenges faced by individuals battling this disease. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, seeking support, and advocating for improved **healthcare access** in rural communities. It is a call to action, urging the community to explore options for better support and **transportation** solutions.

In conclusion, while Friendly offers a welcoming atmosphere, the **transportation** challenges and the distance to specialized cancer care centers significantly impact the 'Lung Cancer Score.' Individuals with lung cancer in Friendly must be prepared to navigate these hurdles, seeking support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals to ensure timely access to the care they need. This assessment underscores the critical need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** and support services in this charming, but geographically isolated, West Virginia community.