26283, Montrose, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26283, Montrose, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.99 percent of residents in 26283 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 26283

The crisp mountain air of ZIP Code 26283, encompassing the town of Montrose, West Virginia, offers a certain charm. However, when facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, the idyllic setting presents unique challenges. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the crucial element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access** for residents of this rural area. It's a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Montrose**, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The very nature of Montrose, nestled within the Allegheny Mountains, dictates the parameters of this score. Distance, terrain, and limited infrastructure create a complex landscape for patients needing regular medical appointments, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other essential treatments. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the realities faced by individuals battling lung cancer in this community.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Montrose is U.S. Route 219, a winding two-lane highway that connects the town to larger population centers. Traveling south on Route 219, the nearest significant medical facilities are located in Elkins, approximately 15 miles away. This drive, typically taking around 25-35 minutes, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, especially during the winter months when snow and ice are common.

Further afield, Morgantown, home to West Virginia University's Ruby Memorial Hospital, offers a more comprehensive range of specialized cancer care. The journey to Morgantown, however, is a considerably longer undertaking. The most direct route involves taking U.S. Route 33 West, a two-lane highway that eventually merges onto Interstate 79 North. This trip, covering roughly 90 miles, can easily consume two hours or more, depending on traffic and road conditions. This extended **transportation** time places a significant burden on patients already weakened by their illness.

The availability of public transit in Montrose is extremely limited. The Randolph County Senior Center offers a dial-a-ride service, but its operational hours and coverage are restricted. While it provides a valuable service for seniors, its capacity to accommodate the specific needs of lung cancer patients, particularly those requiring frequent appointments, is questionable. Information regarding ADA accessibility for this service is difficult to ascertain, further complicating its usefulness for those with mobility issues. Public **transportation** options are simply not a reliable option for most individuals needing consistent **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Montrose. The sparse population and limited demand make it economically unviable for these companies to operate in the area. This absence leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, family members, or specialized medical **transportation** services to reach their appointments. This further underscores the importance of considering **transportation** challenges when evaluating **healthcare access** in this community.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available but come with their own set of considerations. Ambulance services are primarily for emergencies, and their use for routine cancer treatments is generally not feasible. NEMT services, often provided by companies like MedTrans or local ambulance services, offer a more viable option for scheduled appointments. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially long wait times.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Montrose, ZIP Code 26283, is therefore relatively low. The remoteness of the area, coupled with the lack of robust **transportation** infrastructure, creates significant hurdles for individuals battling this disease. The long drive times to specialized cancer centers, the absence of reliable public transit or ride-sharing options, and the reliance on potentially expensive and limited medical **transportation** services all contribute to a challenging environment for patients seeking **healthcare access**.

For those **moving to Montrose** with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions, this score should be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. The need for frequent medical appointments, the potential for debilitating side effects from treatment, and the physical strain of long journeys all necessitate careful consideration of the available **transportation** options.

The ideal scenario would involve a network of support, including family members or friends willing to provide regular **transportation**. If this is not possible, patients may need to rely on NEMT services, which can be a financial burden. Planning and pre-booking appointments well in advance are crucial. Exploring options for telehealth consultations, where appropriate, can also help reduce the frequency of in-person visits.

The local community can also play a vital role in improving the "Lung Cancer Score." Increased advocacy for improved public **transportation** options, including subsidized services for cancer patients, could significantly enhance **healthcare access**. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and NEMT companies to streamline appointment scheduling and reduce costs would also be beneficial.

In conclusion, while Montrose offers a beautiful and peaceful environment, the challenges related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients are undeniable. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the realities of living in a rural area, emphasizing the need for careful planning, strong support networks, and proactive engagement with available resources. Anyone **moving to Montrose** must fully understand these challenges to ensure they can receive the necessary care and support to navigate their cancer journey successfully. The journey on U.S. Route 219 and U.S. Route 33, and even the potential need to travel on Interstate 79, is not just a physical one; it's a journey through the complexities of healthcare in a rural setting.