26169, Rockport, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26169, Rockport, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.75 percent of residents in 26169 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 13.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rockport, WV (ZIP Code 26169)

The specter of lung cancer looms large, a reality for countless individuals and families. Early detection and access to timely, quality healthcare are critical in the fight against this devastating disease. This write-up provides a detailed assessment of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for residents of Rockport, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26169), to aid in understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with receiving potentially life-saving care. This "Lung Cancer Score" considers the practicalities of getting to appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatments, recognizing that transportation is inextricably linked to healthcare access.

Rockport, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transportation options, necessitates a thorough examination of available transportation avenues. This analysis considers the drive times, public transit, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in determining the feasibility of obtaining lung cancer-related healthcare. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents, potential new residents, and healthcare providers alike, offering insights into the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Care**

For many Rockport residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially those specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, are a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The primary arteries for travel are West Virginia Route 14, running north-south, and West Virginia Route 47, providing east-west access. These roads, while offering scenic views, can also present challenges, including winding routes and potential delays due to weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

The nearest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are located in Parkersburg, approximately 20-30 minutes away, depending on traffic and specific destination. This journey typically involves navigating Route 14 south and then utilizing US Route 50 or West Virginia Route 47 to reach the hospitals. The drive is manageable for routine appointments, but the travel time can be a significant burden for frequent visits, such as those required for chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Further afield, the cities of Charleston and Morgantown, offering specialized cancer centers, are considerably more distant. Charleston, roughly a two-hour drive via US Route 33, necessitates careful planning and can be exhausting for patients. Morgantown, approximately a three-hour drive via I-79, presents a similar challenge. These longer drives significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score, potentially delaying or discouraging patients from seeking necessary care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Rockport are extremely limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides bus service in the Parkersburg area, but its routes do not extend directly into Rockport. Accessing MOVTA services would necessitate a private vehicle or ride-share to reach a designated pick-up point, adding another layer of complexity to the transportation equation. The lack of readily available public transit significantly diminishes the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or the financial means for alternative transportation.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant transportation is a critical consideration. Patients with mobility limitations require accessible vehicles to ensure they can attend appointments and treatments. The MOVTA does offer some ADA-accessible buses, but the limited route coverage and the need for advance scheduling can pose challenges for those with urgent healthcare needs. The lack of comprehensive public transit options, coupled with the potential difficulties in accessing ADA-compliant services, severely impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternatives to Consider**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area, offering a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services in Rockport itself may be limited, and the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations and can provide door-to-door service. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and the availability of services can vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the transportation.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to the Lung Cancer Score. While these options offer potential solutions, their limitations in terms of cost, availability, and reliability must be carefully considered.

**Moving to Rockport: Considering Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Rockport, understanding the healthcare access landscape is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of evaluating transportation options and their impact on the ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully assess the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the cost and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The decision to relocate to Rockport should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access challenges. While the community offers a peaceful and rural setting, the transportation limitations may necessitate careful planning and consideration, especially for those with ongoing healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: A Score Reflecting the Challenges**

The Lung Cancer Score for Rockport (ZIP Code 26169) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly in relation to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. The drive times to specialized cancer centers, the potential for weather-related delays, and the limited availability of ADA-compliant transportation further exacerbate the challenges.

Improving healthcare access in Rockport requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring options for expanding public transit, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential to address the transportation barriers and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. Addressing these issues is vital for improving the Lung Cancer Score and ensuring the well-being of the Rockport community.