26250, Belington, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26250, Belington, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.56 percent of residents in 26250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 7.99 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Belington, WV (ZIP Code 26250)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, and timely access to specialized care is paramount. This report, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the ease of transportation to essential healthcare resources for residents of Belington, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26250). We examine the critical aspects of transportation, from the asphalt arteries to the public transit options, to determine the accessibility of vital healthcare services. For individuals contemplating a move to Belington, this analysis offers a critical perspective on healthcare access.

Belington, nestled in the heart of Barbour County, presents a unique challenge. The area's rural character, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to limited transportation options. The primary route for accessing healthcare outside of Belington is by car. The major thoroughfare is US Route 250, which snakes its way through the town, connecting to larger towns and cities. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the distance to specialized facilities.

For residents of Belington, the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Morgantown, approximately 70 miles to the northwest, and Charleston, roughly 150 miles to the southwest. The drive to Morgantown, primarily via US Route 250 and then Interstate 79, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic. Charleston, reachable via US Route 250, US Route 33, and Interstate 79, represents a significantly longer journey, often exceeding three hours.

Smaller hospitals and clinics are available in nearby towns like Elkins, approximately 20 miles east, and Philippi, about 15 miles west. These facilities offer a range of services, including primary care and some specialized treatments. However, for advanced lung cancer care, including specialized surgery, radiation therapy, and complex chemotherapy regimens, patients often need to travel to larger medical centers.

Public transportation options in Belington are limited. The primary provider is the Barbour County Transit Authority, offering demand-response services. These services require advance booking and may not always be readily available for immediate medical needs. The transit system operates within Barbour County, making travel to Morgantown or Charleston challenging. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. The Barbour County Transit Authority strives to provide ADA-compliant services, but the limitations of rural public transportation must be acknowledged.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Belington. Their presence is sporadic, and their availability can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes relying on ride-sharing for scheduled appointments or urgent care a risky proposition.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves. These services typically transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of NEMT providers in Belington may be limited, and the cost can be a significant barrier.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Belington, therefore, reflects the challenges inherent in accessing specialized healthcare. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation and unreliable ride-sharing, creates significant hurdles. The long drive times to major cancer centers in Morgantown and Charleston add to the stress and complexity of treatment.

For individuals considering a move to Belington, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access. Proximity to specialized cancer care facilities should be a key consideration, especially for those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses. The ability to drive safely, or the availability of reliable transportation alternatives, becomes a critical factor in managing their health.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also emphasizes the need for community-based solutions. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanded routes and improved accessibility, is essential. The development of partnerships between local healthcare providers and medical transportation services could improve access to care. Telemedicine and virtual consultations offer another avenue for expanding access to specialized expertise, reducing the need for lengthy travel.

The overall score for Belington reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, with significant limitations. The dependence on personal vehicles and the long distances to specialized cancer centers present substantial challenges. The limited availability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services further exacerbates the situation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It is intended to inform and encourage action. By understanding the transportation challenges, the community can work towards creating a more accessible healthcare environment. For individuals living with or at risk of lung cancer, this knowledge is critical in making informed decisions about their health and well-being.